The Teaching Assistant Program in France offers an exceptional opportunity for Kenyan students and graduates to gain professional experience abroad by teaching English in French public schools. This international program, administered by the French Ministry of Education and implemented through the French Embassy, promotes linguistic and cultural exchange between Kenya and France. Each year, approximately 170 positions are available to Kenyan applicants who are eager to immerse themselves in French language, culture, and education while contributing to English language learning among French pupils and students.
This opportunity is ideal for individuals interested in education, international cooperation, and cultural exchange. Selected candidates will live and work in France or its overseas departments, gaining valuable teaching experience and a deeper understanding of the French educational system.
Program Overview
The Language Assistant Programme recruits Kenyan students to serve as English language assistants in France for a seven-month period. Participants are placed in primary, secondary, or vocational schools across various regions of France and its overseas territories.
The assistantship runs from October 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027. During this time, assistants are expected to help French teachers in their English language classes, bringing a communicative and intercultural approach to the classroom. The experience fosters both linguistic and personal development for assistants, while enriching English language instruction in French schools.
Key Dates
- Submission of applications: 15 November 2025 to 15 January 2026
- Pre-selection of candidates: January 2026
- Interviews: January to February 2026
- Announcement of interview results: May 2026
- Announcement of assignments: June 2026
Role and Responsibilities of a Language Assistant
The English Language Assistant serves as a linguistic and cultural ambassador in the host school. Their main mission is to assist French teachers of English in improving students’ language skills, particularly in oral communication. The position offers flexibility and creativity, as assistants are encouraged to bring their own ideas and cultural experiences into the learning environment.
Detailed Job Description
- Supporting Classroom Teaching
- Work under the supervision of a qualified French English teacher.
- Help students practice spoken English through conversation sessions, dialogues, role-playing, debates, and other interactive activities.
- Reinforce the teacher’s lessons by introducing creative methods of communication, including games, songs, or multimedia presentations.
- Encourage student participation and confidence in speaking English by leading small-group or individual sessions.
- Support the preparation and correction of classroom materials as required.
- Cultural Exchange and Awareness
- Introduce Kenyan and Anglophone culture, customs, and traditions to students to expand their intercultural understanding.
- Organize activities that highlight cultural diversity, such as English language clubs, cultural exhibitions, or themed classroom projects.
- Serve as a bridge between Kenyan and French cultures, promoting dialogue and openness among students and staff.
- Lesson Planning and Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with teachers to design classroom activities and projects that align with the school curriculum.
- Assist in preparing teaching materials such as worksheets, visual aids, and interactive learning tools.
- Participate in departmental meetings or planning sessions when required to discuss pedagogical strategies and progress.
- Student Engagement and Support
- Provide extra support for students struggling with pronunciation, vocabulary, or fluency.
- Offer guidance and encouragement to help students gain confidence in using English in real-life contexts.
- Lead informal conversation sessions to supplement classroom instruction.
- Administrative and Professional Duties
- Respect the school schedule, including attendance and punctuality requirements.
- Adhere to professional ethics and conduct guidelines within the French public education system.
- Represent Kenya and the English-speaking world positively through responsible and enthusiastic participation.
Work Environment
Assistants may be placed in primary schools (ages 6–11), secondary schools (ages 11–18), or vocational schools. Placements are assigned across metropolitan France and its overseas departments, allowing for a wide range of regional experiences. Workload typically consists of 12 hours per week of classroom assistance, providing ample time for cultural exploration and personal development.
The program offers a monthly stipend set by the French government to cover living expenses. Accommodation and travel arrangements are the responsibility of the assistant, though schools may offer guidance in securing housing.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be Kenyan citizens.
- Be between 20 and 35 years old as of the program’s start date.
- Be enrolled in a university, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution, or the Alliance Française.
- Have completed most of their studies in Kenya.
- Hold at least a B1 level certificate in French (intermediate proficiency).
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed based on academic background, language proficiency, and motivation. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews to assess their linguistic competence, cultural awareness, and suitability for the program.
The selection process takes place in several stages:
- File Screening (January 2026) – Evaluation of eligibility and completeness of applications.
- Interviews (January–February 2026) – Conducted by a selection committee comprising representatives from the French Embassy and educational institutions.
- Final Selection and Placement (May–June 2026) – Successful candidates receive notifications regarding results and placement assignments.
Information Webinar
An online information session will be held to provide prospective applicants with comprehensive details about the program, application procedures, and experiences of past participants.
- Date: Monday, 17 November 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM (Kenyan Time)
- Platform: Zoom
- Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/878814019…
This webinar will be an opportunity to engage with representatives of the French Embassy, former assistants, and language professionals. Participants can ask questions and gain practical insights into living and working in France.
Celebration of the International Day of Language Assistants
In honor of the 120th anniversary of the Language Assistant Program, the Alliance Française in Nairobi will host a special event celebrating the International Day of Language Assistants.
- Date: Thursday, 4 December 2025
- Time: 4:30 PM
- Venue: Alliance Française, Nairobi
This event will showcase the history of the program, feature testimonials from alumni, and highlight the contribution of Kenyan assistants to linguistic exchange and cooperation between France and Kenya.
How to Apply
Applications for the Teaching Assistant Program in France 2026–2027 must be submitted between 15 November 2025 and 15 January 2026. Candidates should prepare all required documents and ensure that their applications are complete before submission.
Interested applicants are encouraged to join the official WhatsApp group for updates and communication:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/I4KGpzZ69…
Submission of Applications
Applications should be submitted according to the official instructions provided by the French Embassy in Kenya. Details regarding the online submission platform, required documentation, and additional guidelines will be communicated through the Embassy’s official channels and the program’s communication platforms.
Contact and Additional Information
For inquiries regarding the program, application process, or eligibility, applicants may contact the French Embassy or the Alliance Française in Nairobi through official communication channels provided on their websites.
Summary
The Teaching Assistant Program in France 2026–2027 offers Kenyan students and graduates a unique opportunity to:
- Live and work in France for seven months.
- Develop professional teaching experience in an international environment.
- Strengthen their French language skills through daily immersion.
- Promote Kenyan and Anglophone culture in French schools.
- Build long-lasting connections with French educators and students.
The program continues to serve as a cornerstone of educational and cultural exchange between Kenya and France. Through this initiative, hundreds of Kenyan participants have contributed to the global promotion of language learning and mutual understanding.
Applications are open from 15 November 2025 to 15 January 2026.
