About the Polyngua Team
Discover the story behind the Polyngua team. What inspired the idea for a language school in Switzerland? Here, you can learn both German and Swiss German with a personal touch.
Our Story
Hi, I’m Ruth Tuschewski. After four years of teaching at different language schools, I saw a pattern. Students spoke with confidence in class. But, they hesitated to use German in real-life conversations. Again and again, I heard: “How can I actually use what I’ve learned in everyday life?”
So I started something new: leaving the classroom to speak. I invited students to Christmas markets or we met for coffee ☕. This is how I created chances to practice German in real-life settings. I saw how much they appreciated using the language in a safe, relaxed environment.
Noticing the need for real-world learning, I teamed up with Jean-Benjamin Rousseau (alias JB). We started a German and Swiss German language school. We named it Polyngua, because we want it to be a Home for Polyglots and those who aspire to be one.
Our Mission
At Polyngua, we believe that language learning is all about connection. It connects people, cultures, and communities. Thus, we created a friendly space. Here, learners grow by working together, enjoying cultural experiences, and exploring shared interests. We provide more than traditional lessons. We offer real cultural experiences. These help you feel at home in Switzerland and beyond. We mix local events and online lessons, use modern methods but keep a personal touch.
We celebrate multilingualism and support all learners. 🗣️ It doesn’t matter if German is your second, third, or fourth language. Our courses are adapted to your lifestyle. You can learn online from home, meet at a cozy café, or join our fun community events.
We offer more than traditional courses. Our cultural experiences help students feel at home in Switzerland and beyond. We turn research into action with clear methods that make learning fun and effective.
The Founders
Hi, I'm Ruth
Languages have always been my passion. In the past five years, I’ve assisted many expats in Switzerland with German and Swiss German. This support has helped them advance in their careers or feel more at home in their communities. My time in language schools taught me how to create fun and effective teaching methods.
With my background in linguistics, I explain language clearly. There is no “that’s just how it is!” in our classroom. When you know why something works, you learn faster and with more confidence.
I’ve learned English, French, Spanish, and a bit of Norwegian and Russian. Every language taught me something new about myself and the world. I want you to experience that, too. That’s why I love the Czech saying: “Learn a new language and gain a new soul.” 💖
Fun fact: My favorite German word is Geborgenheit. It is a beautiful term that blends a sense of security with the warmth of home.
Hi, I am JB
As a French expat, language and community have always shaped my journey. At Polyngua, I do different things. I invest in our growth and shape our mission. I keep daily operations organized and on track. I also manage our digital resources. 💻
In my daily life, I use English, French, and German. I’ve felt the highs and lows of living with many languages. For example, I learned High German and then realized Swiss German is a whole different story! This dialect seems like a different language! Thus, I am the official beta-tester of the Polyngua method.
Learning German wasn’t just about passing a test, it was about truly integrating into Swiss life. Polyngua applies the same philosophy. Learning German and Swiss German should be personal, practical, and community-focused.
Fun fact: I once tried to join my village’s volunteer fire fighters. But I was turned down because I didn’t understand Swiss German well enough! Now I’m no longer just learning to pass my C1 certificate, but to be accepted as a firefighter.
