But more pragmatically, what are the criteria that ensure a successful language stay in France? When it comes to language schools specializing in teaching a foreign language, how can you avoid disappointments and make the right choice? What factors should be decisive when choosing a language stay in France?
Immersion first allows for optimized learning time, as students are required to use the "target language" in all aspects of daily life (shopping, various requests, everyday conversations, etc.). Whether staying with a host family or in a residence, students will have the opportunity to communicate with native speakers other than their teachers. For beginners, this is very useful for applying classroom knowledge in real life (describing a situation, asking questions, thanking someone, accepting an invitation, etc.).
As for advanced learners, they can expand their informal vocabulary, use idiomatic expressions in context, and more. What better way to truly get to know a country and a language than by sharing the lives of locals or living among them? Any stay in a foreign country becomes a great opportunity not only for progress but also for making connections and forging real friendships that can last for many years. Whether through a junior or adult program, everyone can find an option suited to their age and goals to fully experience this linguistic and cultural immersion.
Choosing the right city and region for your learning experience is extremely important. Spending several weeks in Brittany or the Pays de la Loire will offer different pleasures than a stay on the French Riviera: it's all a matter of personal taste. Likewise, large cities don’t always offer the best learning conditions (noisy environment, residents less inclined to communicate, etc.). On the other hand, small towns can present disadvantages (few cultural venues, poor public transportation, etc.). Antibes, however, is a medium-sized city that offers numerous advantages both for tourism and culture!
Located about 20 km from Nice Airport, its beaches and old town charm many visitors each year. Jacques Audiberti (1899–1965), a famous writer from Antibes, tried to capture his deep love for the walled city: "I remember one day letting myself fall before Antibes, as if struck by a thunderbolt of light (…)”
Activity programs play a meaningful role in learning, helping students discover a region and fostering social interaction. Make sure the activities offered by your chosen school match your interests and personality!
Are you athletic, or do you prefer cultural activities? At the Centre International d’Antibes, a city tour will help you get acquainted with the “city of ramparts,” while some programs include cultural excursions to nearby towns (Saint-Paul de Vence, Grasse, Monaco, etc.).
A successful language stay requires academic support. Each student is provided with a learning progress sheet to assess their achievements and identify areas for improvement. Every Friday, an in-class evaluation reviews the week’s topics.
Be sure to check the maximum number of students per class to avoid unpleasant surprises once your stay begins. Also verify that the school has a clear, detailed commercial website—this is a good indicator of quality and helps you make an informed choice.
Moreover, having a dynamic and competent teaching team at your chosen school is something to consider before making a final decision. A student’s progress depends not only on their personal effort but also on the teacher’s involvement and motivation!
A school with many years of experience and thousands of students from all over the world is a mark of quality. Every year, seven thousand students from nearly fifty different countries trust the Centre International d’Antibes. With 36 years of experience in teaching French, it’s clear why Antibes is a solid choice.
To avoid a disappointing experience, make sure your chosen school holds official accreditations! Since 2007, the French school Centre International d’Antibes has held the “Qualité FLE” label.
This label certifies that students receive instruction aligned with the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) and are regularly assessed. It also confirms the presence of a qualified and competent teaching team. Other factors such as quality of welcome, student support, safety standards, and working conditions are also evaluated.
Finally, in the case of immersion for a teenager or child, be sure to explain why a language trip will be useful for them. This experience should not feel like a punishment imposed by their parents.
The young learner should realize that it is in fact an opportunity to approach the French language in a more enjoyable way, make new friends, and discover the beautiful country of France!
