The Institut de Touraine trains teachers of French as a foreign language (FLE) internationally through presentations at leading pedagogical seminars. In September 2026, the school partnered with the 21st Grand Séminaire de Rentrée, an annual gathering of FLE teachers organized by the Institut français in Greece, where its educational coordinator, Maider Landivar, led two sessions on artificial intelligence in the classroom and on the use of literature as a teaching tool.
What is the French Institute of Greece’s Back-to-School Seminar?
The Back-to-School Seminar is an annual event that brings together teachers of French as a foreign language to discuss current educational topics: engaging classroom practices, dynamic classroom management, and the integration of innovative tools. Held at the French Institute of Greece, the 2026 edition was the 21st of its kind, organized by the APF FU of Greece (Association of French Teachers) in collaboration with the Educational Cooperation Department of the French Institute of Greece.
This type of event brings together French as a Foreign Language (FLE) trainers and experts who come to share their best practices with teachers in the field, as part of a commitment to professional development and professional exchange.
What measures did the Institut de Touraine propose?
Maider Landivar, educational coordinator and instructor at the Institut de Touraine, led two sessions during the seminar:
- “Smart Learning Paths, Far from Being Artificial” —A Reflection on the Thoughtful Integration of Artificial Intelligence into FLE Teaching Practices, Balancing Supportive Tools and Pedagogical Vigilance.
- “Words, Voices, Cultures: Literature as an Adventure” —an exploration of literature as an educational tool for bringing Francophone languages and cultures to life in the classroom.
These two themes illustrate a two-pronged pedagogical approach: on the one hand, innovation and digital tools; on the other, cultural and literary roots—two areas that the Institut de Touraine incorporates into both the training of its own teachers and its support for FLE teachers abroad.
Why is a French language school in Tours involved in a seminar in Greece?
In addition to the courses offered to international students coming to Tours to learn French, the Institut de Touraine has developed recognized expertise in training French as a Foreign Language (FLE) instructors. This dual expertise—teaching French to learners and training teachers who, in turn, teach French around the world—enables the school to contribute to international educational exchanges, extending beyond its roots in the Loire Valley.
It was this expertise that led the APF FU in Greece and the Educational Cooperation Department of the French Institute in Greece to invite the Institut de Touraine to serve as a partner for this 21st edition of the Grand Séminaire de Rentrée.
What training programs does the Institut de Touraine offer for FLE teachers?
In addition to its occasional international initiatives, the Institut de Touraine provides ongoing support to FLE teachers in developing their teaching practices and skills through training programs designed specifically for professionals in the field of French as a foreign language.
What is FLE?
FLE stands for “French as a Foreign Language.” This term refers to the teaching of French to learners for whom it is not their native language, whether in France or in their home country.
Does the Institut de Touraine only enroll international students?
No. In addition to its French courses for international students and professionals in Tours, the Institut de Touraine also offers training programs for FLE teachers who wish to develop their teaching skills, both in France and abroad.
What is the APF FU of Greece?
The APF FU of Greece is the association of French teachers in Greece. Every year, in collaboration with the Educational Cooperation Department of the French Institute of Greece, it organizes the Back-to-School Seminar for FLE teachers throughout the country.
Are you a French as a Foreign Language (FLE) teacher looking to enhance your teaching practices? Discover the training programs for FLE teachers offered by the Institut de Touraine.