Target groups of students
The content of the course is business related therefore it may be less suitable for Key Stage 3 students, although it has been succesful at Our Lady’s Convent School, where it is delivered in Year 9. The course is good as an alternative to GCSE for KS4 students and as only listening and speaking are assessed it may be more appropriate for some students who find the written form difficult. The course is suitable both for beginners as well as students who have already done some Mandarin but have decided not to carry on to do GCSE Mandarin. It is also ideal for delivery in the sixth form as an ab initio course for students who would like to learn a bit about the language and Chinese culture whilst gaining an accreditation.

Timetabling
As the course is web based, internet access is required for the course. In addition, students can practice outside of lessons where internet access is available, including at home. Two hours a week is suggested as being a suitable amount of curriculum time for total beginners. (If that is not possible, and the students are well motivated, one hour a week will do for the entrance level). It could also be offered as a lunch time club or extra-curricular activity if it is impossible to offer it in timetable. The course could be a good enrichment opportunity for the more able linguists when delivered in this way.

Status of the course
When delivered in a sixth form setting, the course may be taken less seriously than A level subjects and lesson attendance may become a problem as students become over-burdened with work. To tackle this issue Our Lady’s Convent School are trying to add further dimensions to the course, as well as teaching the language, they also introduce Chinese history, geography and social issues.

Organising a trip to China
Trips to China are an excellent way to motivate students. Our Lady’s Convent School has organised trips to China for students studying the Certificate in Business Chinese.