I have been living on the French Riviera for 12 years now, publishing Hello Monaco magazine in English and Russian. Over the years, I’ve tried many times to learn French, exploring various methods: tutors, online courses, self-study, and even artificial intelligence. It would be untrue to say I made no progress—I began to understand spoken French to some extent. However, my conversational skills left much to be desired. After just a few minutes of conversation, I would instinctively switch back to English.
I had heard about the Institut de Français in Villefranche, renowned as one of the world’s most intensive schools for spoken French. Many friends recommended it, but the thought of returning to a classroom setting was daunting. This November, I made the decision: it was now or never! I filled out the online registration and received my invitation to embark on this journey.
A Celebrity Location
A mere 20-minute drive from Monaco, the Institut de Français feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle. Perched on a hillside on the French Riviera, the school occupies a magnificent villa with breathtaking views over the Mediterranean and the picturesque fishing port between Nice and Monaco. It’s easy to see why artists like Matisse, Monet, Chagall, and Léger were drawn to this region.
This unique learning environment has attracted notable figures, including Queen Sonja of Norway, actresses Kathy Bates and Kate Capshaw, Hugh Jackman, and, rumour has it, South African swimmer Charlene Wittstock, who is now the Princess of Monaco.
So International!
On the first day, after a thorough audio and speaking test, we were sorted into classes based on our level: from complete beginners who couldn’t speak a word to intermediate and advanced students. My group of eight ranged in age from 35 to 66 and included people from England, Japan, Switzerland, the United States, Australia, Germany, and Ukraine.
State-of-the-Art Method
Our day begins around 8:30 a.m. with breakfast together in the large dining room, the salle à manger. Class starts at 9 a.m. and includes morning lessons with lots of conversation, followed by a traditional long French lunch. Teachers sit with us at every table, ensuring that we speak only French. After lunch, it’s time for practical sessions—séance pratique—where we play games, listen to news broadcasts, learn the history of French and, of course, French cheese (complete with a tasting!), and even sample wine.
The language lab, or “la chambre de torture,” can be challenging, but it’s part of the immersive experience. The school also organizes outings, like a day trip to the charming hill town of St. Paul de Vence, where we visit the Fondation Maeght, a renowned modern art museum. Students are encouraged to attend a local play, often a Molière production in Nice. During the course, the institute hosts a few parties featuring delicious food prepared by the talented chef, who surprises us daily with mouthwatering lunches.
I have to mention that all the teachers here have vibrant personalities. They’re humorous, patient, tactful, and very artistic, with a gift for making language learning enjoyable. They gently push us to find le mot juste (the exact word) and to perfect our pronunciation, all while building our confidence.
Our teacher, Julian, has been with the institute for 20 years, bringing such humour to his lessons that it’s easy to forget you’re in school.
I had the opportunity to speak with Frédéric Latty, the general manager and Responsable Pédagogique of the Institut de Français, who has been with the institute for over 20 years.
Hello Monaco: Nowadays, there are many ways to learn French, like online tutoring, courses, and various apps. What makes your institute’s method stand out?
Frédéric: There are two main reasons. First, with a private tutor, whether in person or online, you interact with just one person, which can lead to mental fatigue after an hour. Here, classes are eight hours a day with multiple students, allowing you to absorb information more naturally. You can think through answers as others respond.
The second reason is immersion. With a tutor, you usually return to your regular routine afterward, often in a different language. At our school, students are immersed in French all day, which keeps them engaged and committed.
HM: What should someone absolutely do if they want to learn French?
Frédéric: Patience is key; learning a language takes time. If someone is pressured to learn quickly, like in two months, it creates unnecessary stress. Our students are typically over 21, as we look for motivated learners. We focus on speaking French, often discouraging note-taking to promote natural conversation. We want students to focus on speaking rather than relying on written cues.
HM: This is my second time here, and I’m impressed by the staff. How do you manage to find such a great team?
Frédéric: Our students’ age and motivation play a big role. Since our minimum age is 21, everyone is here by choice, creating a positive and supportive environment. Our program is also diverse, balancing intense classroom work with breaks and varied activities, making the experience enjoyable.
HM: I’ve heard that you’ve had high-profile students like Queen Sonja of Norway. Is that true? And what about Princess Charlène of Monaco?
Frédéric: Yes, Queen Sonja studied here and became fluent in French. She even held a press conference in our Grand Salon, asking for privacy so she could focus on learning. We respect our students’ privacy, only mentioning names if they choose to go public. We’ve also had Jens Stoltenberg, the former NATO Secretary-General, who needed French for his role.
HM: Do high-profile students follow the same program?
Frédéric: Yes, they do. While there might be some security arrangements for certain individuals, they participate in the same program as everyone else. For example, actress Blake Lively attended incognito, and students only recognized her afterward. They respected her privacy and treated her like anyone else.
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As my month at the institute came to an end, everyone in my class agreed that time had flown by. The fear I felt at the beginning was replaced by a mix of accomplishment and sadness, knowing I’d soon leave this captivating place and the friends I’d made. Many students fall so in love with the area that they end up buying property nearby. I’m certainly planning to return and continue my French journey.
INSTITUT DE FRANÇAIS – BP 2
23 Avenue Général-Leclerc
06230 Villefranche-sur-mer – FRANCE
by phone:
+33 493 01 88 44
by e-mail:
info@institutdefrancais.com
www.institutdefrancais.com
