At Pistachio Mandarin Language Centre, we’re proud to support children from all backgrounds as they begin their Mandarin language journey.
For Lily, learning Mandarin has opened up more than just a new way to communicate – it’s nurtured her focus, broadened her worldview, and helped her thrive academically.
We spoke with her mother, Danielle, about their experience, what motivated them to choose Mandarin, and why they recommend Pistachio to others.
- How has learning Mandarin made a difference in your (or your child’s) life so far + sharing a moment of progress
I think where it has added value to Lily is probably being able to focus on her work. Because it is a different language, a different level of focus is required. And I found that, not only did it help with her hearing comprehension, but also with her general schoolwork. So it has been very complimentary in terms of applying that same level of attention and focus across other areas of her academic school life.
- How did you hear about Pistachio Mandarin Language Centre?
I just researched online, and believe I did hear from her [Lily’s] school community that there was a really good Mandarin teacher in Epsom and it just helped me start looking and I put one and one together that it must’ve been Pistachio.
- What were the main reasons you / your children wanted to learn Mandarin? Learning objectives?
The reason why was because I saw the value in her learning Mandarin cause it’s so widely spoken – it’s one of the main speaking languages. And she’s [Lily’s] English, Tongan and Maori – so I wanted her to have that ability to know she can learn any language, and that there’s no barrier – because she’s not Chinese that she cannot learn Mandarin for herself, and be worldly and travel. We’re really big on getting to learn and understand different cultures along with her own, a lot of her friends are Chinese, and China is one of the largest markets in the world – so it just made sense that she learn to embrace different cultures.
We thought there was real value in her learning Mandarin because at her school – she goes to Dio – and they teach French and Spanish. For us we were like that’s incredible, but they’re not as largely spoken as Mandarin! So I thought there’s probably more value in them teaching her Mandarin.
There’s studies that have shown that children that can speak multiple languages, their ability to learn is just far higher and they pick it up so much faster.
- What Mandarin classes do you attend?
Beginner foundation class.
- What do you (or your child) enjoy most in the Mandarin lessons?
It felt that it was built or delivered to include those children that don’t come from Chinese speaking homes. It felt very approachable for us personally, and that’s what we liked the most – that you didn’t need to necessarily come from that background or ethnicity to be included and to learn. It was inviting, it was warm, it was family-oriented, a lot of it’s based around songs and inclusivity – so getting the children involved through different activities, which for me was brilliant.
- Would you recommend Pistachio Mandarin Language Centre?
Yes and I have done!
- For parents: Did the location of KTS suit you? Any feedback?
For me it’s a beautiful location, I love Epsom and love that school. How do I put it? It’s a beautiful old school environment. That school’s been there for a number of years. And I know that for myself and a lot of the parents that I’m friends with, and especially the parents that go to some of these private schools – we don’t mind travelling for the best or paying for the best. It is not an issue of cost or location, it’s value.
Lily’s experience is a beautiful reflection of what we hope to offer at Pistachio: a space where every child feels included, challenged, and celebrated as they learn a new language.
Whether it’s boosting academic focus, embracing different cultures, or building the confidence to communicate globally, Mandarin is more than just a subject — it’s a journey. We’re so grateful to Danielle and Lily for sharing theirs with us.
Want to start your own Mandarin journey?
Get in touch with us today — we’d love to help you get started. Contact us here or call us on 0211846993.