Catalan for Russian speakers

Our Catalan courses are aimed at Russian-speaking children who have settled in Barcelona or the surrounding area and need to learn the language to integrate into the Catalan school system.

In Catalonia, Catalan is the language of instruction: textbooks, explanations and examinations are in Catalan from primary school. A newly arrived child's lack of understanding is not a matter of ability—it is a matter of time and support. Our aim is to make that transition as brief as possible.

Bilingual teaching staff

At Sodruzhestvo, classes are taught by bilingual teachers fluent in both Russian and Catalan and experienced in teaching Catalan as a foreign language.

In the early stages, this makes all the difference. A child who doesn't understand a word of what is said makes slow progress and gets discouraged. Being able to explain a rule in Russian, clarify doubts immediately and support them as they gain independence means learning doesn't stop—and settling into school becomes manageable.

How do we work?

Very small groups

Individual classes or in small groups of two or three students. Family groups are also available.

Grammar and vocabulary

Systematic work on structures and progressive vocabulary building.

Writing

Spelling, copying, dictation and essay writing.

Conversation from day one

The classes are set up as games: children learn effortlessly and practise real-life situations.

Help with homework

Help with school Catalan homework.

In-person or online

We offer face-to-face or online classes.

We use teaching materials approved by the Consortium for Linguistic Normalisation for newly arrived pupils to the country.

The courses

Annual course

Basic and initial level.
Groups of 3-4 pupils.
45 hours per module · 4 months.

Intensive one-to-one course

40 hours a month.
Individual or in a very small group.

One-to-one semi-intensive

20 hours a month.
Individual or in a very small group.

Summer intensive courses

Intensive and semi-intensive courses in July and August.
Individual and in small groups.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need to know Catalan to live in Barcelona?

You can live without it, but it is quite limiting. It is the language of school, regional administration and much of the working environment. Learning it opens doors that remain closed otherwise.

My child's school is in Catalan and they're struggling to keep up. Can you help?

Yes, it's one of the most common reasons families come to our classes. We work on both the language and comprehension of the academic vocabulary used in different subjects.

Can I study Catalan without knowing Spanish?

Yes, it is not a requirement. We work from scratch and teachers can use Russian for support at beginner levels.

Can the classes be done online?

Yes. The online course follows the same syllabus and is taught by the same teachers as the face-to-face course, and you can combine the two throughout the academic year.

At what age can my child start?

We work with children and adults in separate groups, with materials and a pace tailored to each age. For children starting school in Barcelona, the classes also provide support to keep up with the school year.

When can I start?

Enrolment is open all year round. You can join at any point during the course: we'll conduct a placement test beforehand to place you in the appropriate group.

Are the lessons in groups or one-to-one?

We offer both formats. The groups are small, allowing for plenty of speaking practice. Individual lessons are available if you need a specific schedule or want to progress at a different pace.