How MixTree Languages takes your English from nervous to natural
When Ana moved from Madrid to Amsterdam, she spoke English well enough to order a coffee, but froze during her first work meeting. She understood her colleagues, but when it was her turn to speak, her mind went blank. Many expats can relate to this moment, when they first realise that knowing English isn't the same as speaking English; that they need to build their confidence to properly take part.
From business meetings to social gatherings, English is often the shared language in Amsterdam. Yet newcomers can feel shy, worry about mistakes, or simply lack opportunities to practise. That is where in-person English courses in Amsterdam make a difference.
Building confidence step by step
At MixTree Languages, an English school in the centre of Amsterdam, the focus is always on communication. Classes are small and friendly, designed to help learners move from hesitation to fluency. Most of the class time is spent speaking in pairs or in groups, doing role-play and in problem-solving activities that reflect real life in the city.
Role-play can be a particularly effective method of learning. Students practise real-life situations that people in Amsterdam face, such as negotiating rent with a landlord, ordering at a crowded cafe, speaking up in an international team meeting, or making small talk while biking with colleagues. These activities prepare students for the English they actually need, while making practice memorable and practical.
Teachers give personalised feedback on pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar, helping students speak more clearly and naturally. New language is always introduced in context, so learners immediately see how it works in daily interactions, whether at work, in a cafe or during social events.
Why study English in person?
While apps and online tools can be useful, they cannot replace the dynamic of learning face-to-face. In a classroom, learners practise the subtle skills of real conversation such as turn-taking, intonation and body language. A teacher can notice mistakes that software misses and correct them instantly.
Classmates also play a valuable role. A group of internationals and Dutch speakers brings different accents, experiences and strategies. This makes practice authentic and close to the reality of life in Amsterdam, where you will hear English spoken in many different ways.
On top of this, the structure of a course, with a fixed timetable and regular lessons, helps learners practise consistently. For many people, this is the difference between slow, irregular progress and steady improvement.
English and community: Learning beyond the classroom
MixTree Languages is more than just a school. It is a community where language learners can practise English socially and make connections. Free weekly events include:
- Tuesday Language Meetup: An informal gathering in Amsterdam where people meet to practise English and other languages.
- Wednesday Conversation Cafe: A relaxed but structured space to build fluency through guided discussions.
These events give learners extra opportunities to use English outside class, build confidence in social settings, and connect with others who are also making Amsterdam their home.
Courses, levels and materials
MixTree Languages offers English courses in Amsterdam for all CEFR levels from beginner A1 to advanced C1. Placement is based on a free English level check to ensure each learner joins the right group.
Lessons use the Oxford English File series, which is well known for its speaking activities, along with other high-quality resources. For on-site courses, the coursebook is included in the price. After completing a programme, students receive a Certificate of Attendance and Proficiency, recording their level and progress.
Flexibility with online evening courses
For learners who cannot always attend in person, MixTree also runs online evening English courses. These small-group classes use the same communicative approach, focusing on speaking and personal feedback. Many students start their studies online while abroad or balancing busy work schedules, and later join in-person classes once they are settled in Amsterdam.
Experience and value
With more than 10 years of experience teaching English in Amsterdam, MixTree Languages has built a reputation for quality and community. All teachers are CELTA or TESOL qualified, with at least five years of teaching experience. Groups remain small to maximise speaking time and personal attention.
Courses are also affordable. MixTree Languages offers some of the best-value English courses in Amsterdam, while still including the course book in the price of on-site programmes. This makes learning accessible without compromising quality.
From nervous to natural
Over time, learners notice real progress. They speak with fewer pauses, use grammar and vocabulary more accurately, and improve pronunciation and intonation. Everyday tasks such as meetings, social events and casual chats with neighbours become easier.
Whether you join a course or practise on your own, the key to moving from shy to fluent is this: speak often, get feedback, and use English in the real Amsterdam around you. Join MixTree Languages to build your confidence, improve your spoken English, and become part of an international community in the heart of Amsterdam.
Connect with MixTree Languages
To learn more about their English courses in Amsterdam or to schedule a free English level check, reach out to their coordination team by email at info@mixtreelang.nl or on the phone via +31(0)20 76 61 981. You're also welcome to drop in and have a chat anytime between 9am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. MixTree Languages looks forward to welcoming you to their community in the heart of Amsterdam!