Yunus Emre Institute London 10 Maple Street, London W1T 5HA

"I firmly believe that age is not a barrier to grasping knowledge, simply because the thirst for learning is a lifelong process that does not reach its final destination at school or at university. It had always been a dream of mine to learn the Turkish language. However, the circumstances of my life made it so that I was not able to make my dream come true any earlier. Therefore, with the first opportunity that presented itself to me and without wasting any more time, I embarked on my Turkish learning journey at Yunus Emre and let me tell you it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. During the last 4 years that I have been part of YEE, I have been extremely lucky to have been taught by teachers that are absolutely exceptional. My first teacher was SEVİNÇ ÇAĞLAR, with whom I began my journey in the Turkish language and honestly I could not have imagined a better teacher to start learning Turkish with. Sevinc is without a doubt a force of encouragement to her students as she ensures that her lessons are a creative and fun learning space for all new YEE members. Thanks to Sevinc I was no longer anxious about the challenges I might face in learning a new language. Instead I was excited to delve deeper into developing my skills in Turkish. The “torch was then passed” to DUYGU EFE, who took me from A1.2 to A2.2. Duygu Efe is an extremely talented teacher who had so much knowledge to give us that would go above and beyond to make sure that our Turkish constantly improved with each lesson. Her notes on idioms and grammar have been so useful to me that I refer back to them, even now. On top of this, there were many times that she would turn our lessons into a theatrical performance which made our learning only so much more fun and engaging. During the Spring semester last year because of a work scheduling clash, I had to change from the weekday lessons to the weekend ones. Nevertheless, this was the perfect opportunity for me to meet MELİHAT NAZIM. Melihat is an amazing teacher with a clear passion for teaching Turkish which she carries on to her students as well. She is very encouraging, extremely knowledgeable and I absolutely loved that her lessons were well structured and well thought-out so that she clarified any unknown words or grammar that we might have had. Over the last two years, I have had the privilege to be taught by DUYGU ALTINTAŞ. Duygu is an incredible teacher who always goes that ‘extra mile’ to help her students not only during the lessons but outside of class as well. To be more specific, she will respond to any questions a student might have about the lesson via email in order to ensure that we have understood everything. She structures the lessons according to her students’ needs and breaks down complex grammar topics in Turkish for us into simpler, more understandable techniques. As a result, Duygu has created an inclusive and collaborative environment for her students where everyone feels comfortable asking questions and is excited to learn. In addition, Duygu brings her own personal experiences to the classroom so that we not only learn Turkish but become immersed in the culture as well. Her lessons integrate a mix of grammar and comprehension alongside real-world events, making it a well-enhanced learning environment. YEE is without a doubt the best place to not only learn Turkish but to also engage with the Turkish culture. This is because it does not only offer language courses but also has an array of exhibitions, workshops and projects for anyone who wants to get involved. This goes to show just how dedicated the teachers and staff at YEE are in ensuring that its students always feel welcome and are given the opportunity to get involved in activities that suit them the most."

"Hello! I cannot speak highly enough of this institution and its teachers!! About two years ago I started my learning Turkish journey at Yunus Emre Enstitüsü with an amazing teacher Sevinç Çağlar. With her professional guidance I could start speaking Turkish for the first time! :) Then, I continued the course at weekend with another fantastic and extremely experienced teacher, Sevimli Yildiz. Because I wanted to polish up my speaking skills and learn faster, I also signed up for an extra Speaking Course with Sevimli Yıldız and Fisun Aykır. After these courses I could express myself more correctly than in the past! I strongly recommend Yunus Emre Enstitüsü and its teachers to anyone interested in the Turkish Language and Culture. What one mustn't forget is that all students that sign up for the language courses, have the amazing opportunity to participate at Yunus'un Otağı, run by Dr. Hadra Kübra TAMTAMIS, which is officially my favourite event in London. Here you have the chance to practice Turkish and learn more about the Turkish culture while meeting other students with the same interests as you! Cristina Ionita Turkish learner"

"The Yunus Emre Institute is a great place to immerse yourself in Turkish culture and history. In addition to the excellent language courses on offer, there are a range of other programmes available such as calligraphy courses and oud lessons. The activities and events hosted by YEE extend far beyond language and allow those interested in Turkey to be fully immersed in its history, art, and culture. Insightful and engaging talks are regularly given, and the Turkish Culture Nights provide students with an opportunity to showcase what they’ve been learning and enjoy a night of fun and dancing. The staff are all very friendly and create a warm and positive environment. I have had the privilege of being taught by Sevimli, a dedicated teacher with a clear passion for teaching Turkish. She uses a variety of materials in her lessons to ensure students remain engaged and interested. Her approach to teaching Turkish is wholistic, focusing not only on langue but culture and history too. Above all, she is patient and approachable, so you will feel comfortable learning at any pace. I highly recommend YEE to anyone interested in Turkey and/or learning Turkish."

"I am learning arabic calligraphy at Yunus Emre Institute and i can say that Ustaad Gulnaaz is an amazing teacher and very well experienced. She doesn’t just teaches us calligraphy but also give us the history behind it. The course is very intense but very rewarding. I have learned how to be patient, focused and determined with my work."

"The Yunus Emre Institute in London is a wonderful source for anyone who wants to learn Turkish and/or to experience Turkish culture. I have just completed the A1 language course with this centre and I am looking forward to beginning the A2 course next month. Like any new learner, I was very apprehensive before my course began. However, Sevimli, my teacher, was excellent. She created a warm and positive learning environment, using a variety of teaching methods in order to focus equally on the four skills of reading, listening, writing and speaking. I was very impressed with her dedication and desire to help students progress. In addition, for students enrolled on their courses, Yunus Emre provides a range of free additional learning opportunities. There is a weekly conversation club where you can practise speaking skills and make new friends. The Turkish Culture evenings are also wonderful free events which showcase Turkish music, dancing, food and literature. Yunus Emre has enriched my life."