The Be a French Teacher. C'est ta route. project was developed in response to the ever-increasing enrolment in French language programs in Alberta schools and the need to address the demand for French teachers. This project is funded under the Canada-Alberta Agreement on Minority-Language Education and Second-Language Instruction in accordance with the Official Languages in Education Programs. The Institute for Innovation in Second Language Education (IISLE) at Edmonton Public Schools in partnership with Canadian Parents for French Alberta and Alliance Française developed this teaching French as a career pathway toolkit to inform students of the importance of learning and teaching French and the skills required to be successful.
About IISLE
Edmonton Public Schools is a leader in North America’s second language education. The Division offers excellent bilingual programs in six languages, second language courses in 10 languages, and an extensive French Immersion program.
The Institute for Innovation in Second Language Education (IISLE) at Edmonton Public Schools is the first comprehensive institute of its kind in North America, housed within a public school board, to support the development and promotion of excellence in second language education. IISLE is committed to providing outstanding educational experiences and training to prepare leaders for an evolving global society. IISLE services include pedagogical training, curriculum and programming support, facilitation of language credentialing examinations, promotion of language learning, and operation of four language resource centres.
Partners
Canadian Parents for French Alberta
CPF was founded in 1977 by parents who wanted to ensure that children would have the opportunity to become bilingual in the Canadian school system. Originally a small group of concerned parents who met in Ottawa, CPF has evolved into a proactive national network with 10 Branch offices and some 150 Chapters in communities nationwide.
The Alberta Branch of CPF was founded in 1977 and incorporated as a non-profit society in 1978 in order to promote, support and enhance French immersion and core French programs throughout this province.
Alliance Française d'Edmonton
The Edmonton Alliance française is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1947 by Paulette Crévolin. Their main goal is to promote the French language and francophone cultures. In Edmonton, they organize many events to highlight the cultural diversity of francophone communities across the globe. Along with language classes, they offer a variety of social and cultural activities, such as: lunches, talks, exhibits, workshops, outings, and of course, cheese & wine! They also house a library for members to borrow books, CDs and DVDs. All students are automatically given a membership card to benefit from these services. Think of it as a bonus: a chance to join a community of French speakers! The Alliance française of Edmonton (AFE) is a nonprofit organization which finance its activities thanks to subsidies, donations and memberships.
Frequently asked Questions
Where do I study to become a French teacher?
See The Journey for a list of universities that offer a Bachelor of Education degree program.
Where can I work as a French teacher?
You can work as a French teacher in schools across Alberta, across Canada and abroad. French proficiency is an asset for any resume.
Can I teach any level/grade?
You can choose to pursue an area of focus dependant on the institution in which you are studying. With French as part of your skill set, school divisions may offer you a position at any grade level.
Do I need a high level of French language proficiency?
The level of proficiency required is dependent on the program you will be teaching in. Many school divisions require a proficiency assessment to determine what programs are best suited to your language ability.
Do I need to speak French prior to entering a University program?
The high-school language course pre-requisite requirements vary per University program. By participating in exchange programs, engaging in community activities, and enrolling in French conversation courses, you can build proficiency more quickly and at any age.
How much does a French teacher earn each year?
Salary is determined by the school division that you work for. Teachers also enjoy job security with health benefits and pensions. For more information on teacher salaries in Alberta, visit alis.ca
How likely am I to get a job when I graduate?
There is currently a high demand for French teachers across Canada. French teachers have a very unique skill-set that is sought after by employers. Graduates often have many options when applying for teaching positions.
CONTACT
Institute for Innovation in
Second Language Education
The Languages Centre at Woodcroft
13750 Woodcroft Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5M 3M4