École internationale de langues YMCA

⚠️‼️WARNING READ BEFORE ENROLLING‼️⚠️ Throughout the course, I’ve consistently noticed that only a few students are chosen to read aloud or speak, while the rest of us are left with minimal participation. As someone who already struggles with speaking and reading aloud in my native language, I joined this program hoping for a supportive and encouraging learning environment. Unfortunately, this was not the case. When I did get the chance to speak, I was often cut off after only a few sentences and made to feel as though my efforts weren’t good enough. I found this extremely discouraging — especially considering that learning a new language naturally involves making mistakes. Isn’t that the whole point of attending French lessons? Additionally, much of the class time was spent reading from a textbook without first learning or understanding the vocabulary, which made it difficult to follow and engage. Despite the fact that the lessons lasted three hours, I often had less than 20 minutes of actual speaking time. This structure made it nearly impossible to develop my conversational skills. What’s most frustrating is that this course cost $600. For such a significant investment, I expected a much higher standard of instruction, more interactive lessons, and an inclusive approach where all students are given a fair chance to participate and improve. Based on my experience, I would not recommend this program to anyone. I feel that I did not receive the value, support, or learning environment that was promised or expected.

TLDR: With two months under an amazing teacher and one month with a less satisfactory one, I have felt my French level increase significantly, and I would recommend this school to others who have the time and money. I spent three months learning French here, taking full-time morning classes (from Débutant 3 to Intermédiaire 2). I had an absolutely fabulous time learning the language with Laurence, and my review would be five stars if I had only been with her. However, during my second month, I felt a drop in quality with another teacher—Julius—whom I found to be a lovely person, but whose pedagogy did not work for me or my classmates. I would rate that month maybe 2.5–3/5 stars. I have heard that the other teachers I didn’t get a chance to take a class with are also fantastic. Besides that, and one frustrating encounter with an impolite, old, grumpy man in the administration, I found my time studying French here to be quite pleasant. I have noticed significant improvements in my ability to speak and converse in French, though I still feel far from fluent. That being said, if you have the time and the money, I would highly recommend this school to anyone looking to improve their French skills. Merci beaucoup YMCA!

Je m'étais inscrite à un cours d'anglais présentiel 3 jours semaine. J'ai appris que le cours était annulé 3 jours avant le début des classes. J'aurais aimé être informé que le cours n'était pas encore ouvert lors de mon inscription à cause du manque d'étudiant!

I spent three months learning French here in the intensive morning classes (intermediate 1-3) and took a conversation class — my French improved significantly and I really appreciated the teachers (Joanne, Martine, Maria and Stephane were all some of the best French teachers I’ve had and a real highlight) and the school is well organised. I’ve taken a star off because YMCA doesn’t offer advanced in person morning classes, which meant I could only progress to a certain point in my learning. I note they do offer online evening advanced classes if you don’t mind that.

Had some really good teachers, but it's a mixed bag for sure. One star rating is for the administration - they don't care about the student experience, they just want your $$! Best to go somewhere else that is responsive to feedback & care about your experience.

Je suis très satisfait des cours d'anglais que j'ai suivis à distance. J’ai trouvé mon professeur très compétent, patient et à l'écoute. L'approche interactive et humaine rend l'apprentissage agréable. Je recommande vivement ce programme à toute personne souhaitant progresser dans une ambiance conviviale et professionnelle !

My husband and I have been studying French at the YMCA for several months and we are very happy with the quality of instruction. Most of our teachers have been excellent, particularly Maria, Julius and especially Rosalie. Highly recommend the Y for language learners in Montreal!