Hello and welcome to Edunuova, a place where I share my love for mathematics, languages, and education, and where I help you discover the beauty of the Dutch language.

On this website, you will find background information, insights, and inspiration to support you in learning Dutch in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

Why I Teach Dutch

I currently teach Dutch to expats in Utrecht. I do this because I genuinely love cultures and enjoy getting to know people from all over the world. I have had the privilege of teaching people from Ukraine, Syria, Guatemala, Iran, France, Italy, Mexico, Hungary, Germany, Belgium, England, and many other countries. Each student brings their own history, habits, humour, and way of seeing the world and I find it incredibly enriching to learn from them. Teaching is never one-sided; while I teach Dutch, I am constantly learning about different cultures and perspectives.

I speak five languages (NL, FR, IT, DE, EN) myself and am currently learning my sixth and seventh (Swedish and Spanish). You could say I am something of a polyglot. Languages have always fascinated me: their structure, their logic, their rhythm, and the way they shape how we think and express ourselves. I see a unique beauty in every language, and I love sharing this passion with my students. Because I am constantly learning languages myself, I understand both the challenges and the excitement that come with the process.

I admire anyone who chooses to learn Dutch. After all, it is not strictly necessary to survive in the Netherlands. Many expats can work and study entirely in English, and most Dutch people speak excellent English.

However, truly integrating into Dutch society, and really feeling at home, requires learning the language. When you understand Dutch humour, chat with colleagues in Dutch, or understand what your friends’ children are saying, something shifts. You move from being a visitor to being part of the culture.

That is why learning Dutch is more than practical. It is personal.

My Teaching Approach

People often ask: Where do I start?

I believe in an immersive approach to language learning. I do not believe in endless boring textbooks and mechanical exercises. When you learn Dutch with me, you start speaking from day one. I give you feedback on what you say, we explore grammar in context, and we read together. We work on all the essential elements of language learning: speaking, listening, reading, vocabulary, and structure.

In addition, I have a WhatsApp group where I keep my students immersed in Dutch culture. I share Dutch songs, interviews, news, and things that are happening in the Netherlands. Language and culture belong together: you cannot truly understand one without the other.

Is Dutch really an “ugly” language?

Many people say Dutch sounds harsh or unattractive,  and I understand why. Our strong g and h sounds are not always considered melodic.

But once you reach a certain level, the beauty of Dutch begins to reveal itself.

In my opinion, the real charm of the language lies in its expressions. Dutch is incredibly playful and creative. Newspaper headlines often contain idioms and expressions that make the language vivid and full of character. Dutch also has wonderfully specific words that capture feelings and situations in unique ways (I keep a growing list of my favourites on this page).

And of course, Dutch has beautiful artists who demonstrate the depth and poetic power of the Dutch language, such as Herman van Veen and Ramses Shaffy.

I love introducing my students to these special aspects of Dutch and showing them that it is, in fact, a rich and expressive language.