Bryan Meng Hui Heng

Hello, I'm Bryan Heng, an experienced Mandarin teacher dedicated to empowering students with the ability to communicate confidently in Mandarin and explore the vast possibilities that the Chinese language offers. Just as language acts as a gateway to new horizons, I believe that mastering Mandarin not only enables effective communication but also instills confidence and opens doors to new opportunities.

Teaching Philosophy:

My teaching philosophy is to promote lifelong learning and personal development among my students. I prioritize their health and happiness, as evident through my role as a Wellbeing Program Coordinator and my additional training in Counseling. Furthermore, my background in psychology and child protection enables me to create a nurturing environment that caters to the diverse needs of my students.

I also believe in the power of a growth mindset, which is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and practice. I encourage them to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than as obstacles. By promoting a growth mindset, I help students develop resilience and perseverance, which are essential components of grit.

Specializations:

My specializations include conversational Mandarin and exam preparation (IGCSE, HSK, and AP Mandarin). I focus on developing speaking and listening skills to facilitate real-life conversations. Additionally, I am well-versed in exam requirements and can effectively guide learners in their exam preparations.

Unique Teaching Methods:

In my Mandarin classes, I offer a comprehensive learning experience that emphasizes listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. I employ innovative image-based memorization techniques to help students become adept in Chinese characters without relying on rote learning or excessive dictation. This approach enhances listening and speaking abilities, enabling learners to communicate effectively in Mandarin. Moreover, I advocate for reading Chinese characters without depending on pinyin, promoting a deeper understanding of the language.

Previous Successes:

Throughout my teaching career, I have witnessed remarkable success stories among my students. Many have achieved outstanding results, such as passing the IGCSE Second Language in Mandarin examination after only five years of learning from scratch. Students under my guidance have consistently attained A grades in the IGCSE Mandarin exam since 2016. I have also helped students progress from HSK 3 to HSK 4 within a three-month period. Additionally, some students have gained the confidence to live independently in Taiwan after effectively and efficiently learning Mandarin with me for a year and a half.

Counseling Experience:

I have actively engaged in counseling sessions with students, providing a safe and confidential space for them to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. My experience in counseling has allowed me to develop strong active listening skills, enabling me to empathize with students' challenges and experiences. Through empathetic listening, I gain a deeper understanding of their emotional needs and am better equipped to offer guidance and support.

Satir Therapy Focus:

With a current focus on Satir Therapy, I employ this transformative approach to help students build positive self-esteem, develop effective communication skills, and establish healthy relationships. I have witnessed the powerful impact of Satir Therapy in facilitating emotional healing and growth among my students, and I am committed to continuing my professional development in this area to better serve their counseling needs.

With a rich tapestry of over eight years as an international Mandarin teacher, I'm dedicated to unlocking students' full potential. Currently at Sampoerna Academy in Indonesia, I've guided grades 4 to 10, fostering cultural exchange through cross-school projects and leading programs like Wellbeing and Students Buddy. Adept at orchestrating events, I've organized the Spring Festival Celebration, Teacher Wellbeing Program, and Year-End concerts. My role at Raffles American School in Malaysia from 2019 to 2022 saw me teaching grades 6 to 12, initiating cross-country cultural projects, and managing the Chinese Culture Week program. Earlier, at Austin Heights International School and Seri Omega Private & International School in Malaysia, I played an integral role in teaching, student advisement, and event management. Passionate about nurturing growth and embracing diverse cultures, I'm eager to bring my expertise to new teaching horizons.

My educational background aligns seamlessly with my passion for teaching and promoting holistic student development. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Education with a specialization in Language Teaching, which has provided me with a solid foundation in pedagogy and curriculum development. Additionally, I pursued advanced coursework in Psychology and Child Protection, enhancing my ability to create a nurturing and supportive classroom environment. These academic pursuits have equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively guide students on their learning journey while prioritizing their wellbeing and personal growth.