Hi everyone! I’m Roland, an English and Dutch language tutor, and I’d love to share a bit about my journey and how my experiences traveling the world have influenced my teaching style.

I’ve been fortunate enough to live in 14 different countries, including the Netherlands, Belgium, and also the United States where I spent 28 years. My time in these diverse places has not only given me a deep understanding of language, but also a unique appreciation of culture, communication, and how language shapes our everyday interactions.

One of the most common challenges I’ve noticed in my students is confidence—whether learning Dutch or English, many people feel overwhelmed by the idea of speaking a new language. Believe me, I’ve been there! Traveling through non-English speaking countries and trying to navigate everyday life without knowing the language was a real eye-opener for me. It reminded me how powerful it is to practice conversational skills in real-life situations.

My Approach to Teaching

Because of this, my lessons focus on practical, real-world conversations. I believe language is best learned by diving into topics that matter to you, whether that’s discussing travel, culture, or everyday hobbies. I tailor each lesson to my student’s needs and goals, ensuring they feel confident and supported throughout their learning journey.

When teaching Dutch, for example, I love introducing my students to the local culture—whether it’s exploring the quaint Dutch bike paths or understanding what makes Dutch humor so unique. On the other hand, when teaching English, I make sure to mix in cultural insights from my time in the U.S., from the quirky slang of California to the friendly customs of Texas.

Why I Love Teaching

There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a student grow from hesitant to confident. I’ve worked with students from all walks of life—whether they’re preparing for a trip, working on their professional English, or just trying to get a better grasp of everyday conversations.

What I enjoy most is getting to know my students, hearing about their own stories and experiences, and helping them navigate the cultural differences between the languages they’re learning. Every student’s journey is different, and that’s what makes teaching such a rewarding experience.

A Quick Tip for Language Learners

If I can leave you with one piece of advice, it’s this: practice, practice, practice! Whether it’s watching a 10-minute video in your target language or speaking with a native speaker for a few minutes a day, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Language learning is about making mistakes, learning from them, and slowly gaining confidence as you go. You’ll be surprised at how much progress you make with consistent practice!

Want to Learn More?

If you’re interested in improving your Dutch or English with a practical, conversation-focused approach, I’d love to work with you! Together, we can tackle your language goals, and I’ll share more tips and insights in our lessons that can help you get comfortable speaking in real-world situations.