More than 300 students have joined Kumon's English as a foreign language (EFL) programme since it was introduced in 11 centres last June. Three students and their mothers give the programme the thumbs up
Tam Ho-ching, aged 5
'I like the programme. I want to level up faster and get a Kumon medal like my brother.'
Angel Ng Kam-fong, mother 'Both my sons are studying at Kumon - maths for my elder son and English for Ho-ching. My elder son did Kumon's former English programme for three months but we found it too difficult and finally quit. Ho-ching also started with the old programme and we were again considering giving up. But then the instructor introduced this new EFL programme. She said it was easier and was tailor-made for Ho-ching. He found the old programme difficult and quickly forgot what he learnt. The new programme is much easier and he has learnt a lot more. He is the only one in his kindergarten who understands what his native English speaking teachers are talking about. 'Ho-ching will go to primary school this year. His brother faced a lot of difficulties when he went as it was more difficult than kindergarten. But I'm not worried about Ho-ching. As he has good foundations, I believe he will do well.'
Herman Hui Ho-ming, aged 6
'I like Kumon. The new English programme is fun. I can understand more and learn more. I couldn't understand the English in the old programme. I learnt a lot of vocabulary and know how to spell the words. And now I don't need Mum's help to finish my homework and I can finish the work faster.'