Developing of professional skills of French teachers across Estonia

Summary

The Estonian Association of French Language Teachers brings together educators from a wide range of general education schools, offering them opportunities to participate in mobility programmes and training, regardless of their place of work. Our aim is to enhance the quality of French language teaching and promote linguistic and cultural diversity throughout Estonia. As part of the project, we organised language-focused courses and job-shadowing visits to schools in neighbouring countries and France.

"When teachers cross borders to learn, they return not just with knowledge, but with the power to inspire minds, bridge cultures, and build a more inclusive world—one classroom at a time."

Topic(s) addressed

• Democratic participation
• Equal access to training
• Improving French teaching
• Promoting cultural diversity
• Sharing knowledge
• Supporting isolated teachers through international mobility and collaboration

Target group(s)  

French language teachers across Estonia, teachers in rural areas or outside the capital.

Methodologies used

The project followed a dual-method approach: training courses and job-shadowing (observation visits). Job-shadowing in Finland and Hungary enabled teachers to observe learner-centred classrooms, collaborative teaching, inclusive education, and language integration in comparable educational contexts - ensuring practical relevance for the Estonian system. The visit to France offered insights into multilingual teaching and active student civic engagement through student councils and participatory practices. Training courses in France focused on modern French teaching methodologies and recent developments in the language. This combination was innovative, as it blended direct classroom observation with targeted professional training, fostering both practical skills and pedagogical development.

Innovation environment

The learning environments featured in the project promote innovation by emphasising learner-centred and inclusive practices that actively engage students. Teachers observed collaborative teaching models and classrooms where language learning was integrated with other subjects, enhancing both relevance and motivation. A strong focus on cultural and linguistic diversity encouraged the use of adaptive, creative methods that reflect students’ backgrounds. In addition, promoting student participation through councils and discussion groups fostered critical thinking and democratic skills. These environments inspired teachers to adopt innovative, flexible approaches that support both language proficiency and civic engagement.

Teachers’ role

Teachers involved in the project drive innovation by applying new methods and insights gained through international mobility experiences.  

They introduce learner-centred, inclusive, and culturally responsive teaching practices observed abroad, adapting them to suit their local classroom contexts. By organising local training sessions, they share these innovative approaches with colleagues, amplifying the project’s impact.  

Their active promotion of student participation and democratic values contributes to a more engaging and collaborative learning environment.  

As catalysts for change, these educators enhance the quality of language teaching while fostering critical thinking and civic engagement among students.

Impact and output

The project’s innovative teaching and learning methods have significantly strengthened French language education in Estonia. Following international mobility activities, nationwide training days were organised for all French teachers, facilitating broad knowledge exchange. New partnerships emerged, including a 2025 visit from a French delegation that took part in school visits and observation days in Tallinn.  

As a direct outcome, several schools introduced modules on the history and culture of France’s overseas regions - beginning with Réunion - enriching the curriculum. Expanded networks also enabled three Estonian schools to secure Erasmus project partners in France, enhancing international collaboration and driving further innovation in teaching.

Learn more about the project

Video