Who are we?
Raritan Valley Chinese School was founded in 1982 starting with 30 students. Students learn the Mandarin language and have many opportunities to explore Chinese culture. RVCS is part of the Association of NJ Chinese Schools (ANJCS) and Chinese American Cultural Association (CACA) and is also affiliated with the Somerset County 4-H. Students are encouraged to participate in community, ANJCS, CACA and 4-H activities. Many of our parents volunteer to coordinate cultural programs, celebrations and other school functions.
Grade Levels (traditional youth program):
- Introductory (generally students in Pre-K, Kindergarten or Grades 1-2 with little/no prior Mandarin language instruction – covers Zhuyin Fuhao/bo-po-mo-fo)
- Beginner
- Intermediate 1
- Intermediate 2
- Advanced 1
- Advanced 2
Also available: Adult Learning Center classes (for ages 18+) focused primarily on conversation & culture
Who can join? Do we need to speak Chinese at home?
Students may start at age 4 and adults are also welcome. Our students have diverse ethnic backgrounds and several of our students do not speak Chinese regularly at home and are studying Chinese as a Second Language (CSL). Especially in the lower grades, our curriculum focuses on learning conversational Chinese and the phonetic alphabet, adding in more reading and writing as the grade levels progress. The staff consists of parents who volunteer as administrators and teachers.
When are classes?
The school year lasts for 32 weeks from September to June of the following year. Mandarin language classes are held Sunday mornings from 9:30–11:20 a.m.
Do you offer cultural classes?
Chinese cultural & specialty classes are held immediately after the language classes from 11:30 a.m–12:20 p.m. Come join us to practice or learn fun activities such as chess, Lion dance and traditional dance. We also offer tai chi for adults only. We also may be adding other classes for the new school year, based on level of interest.
Where is the school?
Classes are held at the Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) located at 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg, NJ. Click here for directions.
What do you do with the community?
Each year, students, teachers and parents are involved in many community events, such as the Somerset County 4-H Fair. The school also hosts a Chinese New Year celebration which includes community leaders and participates in fairs and competitions sponsored by ANJCS and CACA.
How do I register?
Complete the online registration form here.