Elise is a Canadian TAPIF participant who grew up in Toronto and is passionate about bilingualism, cultural exchange, and global experiences.
With a background in French immersion and a degree in journalism, Elise brings a unique perspective to her time teaching English in France. Through her blog, she shares candid reflections on navigating life in a small French city, teaching in the public school system, and embracing the challenges and rewards of cultural immersion. Elise’s journey is both relatable and inspiring for TAPIF applicants and individuals curious about life abroad.
How did you learn about TAPIF?
I grew up in Toronto and attended a French-immersion elementary school and an English high school. I knew that as an Anglo-Canadian living in Toronto learning French at home would be almost impossible. I am a new grad from Carleton University’s Journalism program. I found out about TAPIF through a family friend who is a high school French teacher. TAPIF, or the Teaching Assistant Program in France is a program organized by the France’s Consulate that allows native English speakers to live in France for a period of around eight months and teach English in France’s public school system. For many people this opportunity allows you to easily get a foot into life in France while working 12 hours a week. This program is catered towards people who want to be teachers, but it also attracts people from all walks of life. I am working towards being a bilingual journalist. For others it might be a career as a translator, historian, scientist, librarian, businessperson, the list goes on.
Why did you apply?
Being a new university graduate is confusing. I knew I wanted to do a master’s but needed a little study break. I had done an exchange semester in Denmark during university and through that learned that I wanted to work in the European media scape. Although I loved my time at university in Denmark, I found out quickly that I was at a disadvantage language-wise. I was in a class with people from 16 different countries, most of which spoke at least two languages fluently, I in fact did not, and I wanted to change that. Although the teaching part might not be 100% what you want to do, TAPIF is a fun way to immerse yourself in a culture and language in a way that also gives back to local communities in France.
What is your school environment and routine like?
The role of a language assistant can vary. I live in a small city located in the Auvergne Rhone Alps region about two hours north of Lyon. I arrived here at the end of September, and I live about 20 minutes by foot from my school. Personally, I have a two-week rotational schedule at one college (middle school) teaching children aged 11-14. Two things to know about the TAPIF program are that you will never be left alone with students, and you will never teach more than 12 hours a week which makes this a low stress job. As I am placed in a more rural part of France a lot of the students have a lower level of English. I work on getting the students to speak as much as possible during my lessons by playing games or comparing topics in Canada to topics in France. I teach a few hours a day and I have one weekday off, usually Friday which has helped me to be able to travel in my region.
The role of a language assistant can differ depending on what level you are with. I have a friend teaching at a local high school who helps with American politics and history classes as well as more specialized classes like English literature and is expected to base classes on whatever material the teacher is working on. On the other hand, I have a friend who is working in a primary school who is working on basic English like animals, colours, and songs with her classes.
What are some highlights or memorable moments?
So far my biggest highlights of this program can be broken down into three categories, the people, travel and how rewarding TAPIF can be. I was quite disappointed at first to not be placed in a large French city, but it has turned out to be the best part of my experience. I have become friends with some of the teachers at my school and other assistants which has given me the opportunity to go on hikes, weekend away trips, and learn more about French people and French culture. I have even gotten to eat lunch with an elderly French couple in their village of 80 people and have shared a glass of wine and pot of fondue which a men’s mountain biking group on the top of a mountain during a hiking trip.
Secondly, as a Canadian being part of TAPIF has given me the opportunity to travel and see more of Europe. During school breaks I have been able to spend time in other cities in France as well as travel to Switzerland, Italy and the Netherlands which were all a blast.
Lastly, TAPIF (in a small city) REALLY helps you learn French. In my city there are almost no English speakers which forces me to speak and improve every day. I have found that people in smaller parts of France are always interested to know why I decided to move here and are always helpful in terms of correcting my grammar and sentence structure if I ask for help.
As a current TAPIF participant, what are your future plans and TAPIF has prepared you for that?
I’ll be participating in TAPIF until the beginning of summer then looking to put my journalism degree and newfound French skills into practice. I would love to find work somewhere in France as a journalist or in a French-speaking area of Canada. I think TAPIF has helped me to realize that learning French and working in French are a possibilities now, which is something I didn’t think would be possible even a year ago.
What advice would you give to future applicants?
Here it comes. The advice section. My main piece of advice is being open to anything. Although you can make requests in your TAPIF application, they are just that. Requests. I requested to be placed in the city of Toulouse and specified on my application that I wanted to be placed in a city with young people and a university so I could meet more people my age. Instead, I was placed in a small city, in the west of France with no university or college of any sort. Sometimes it feels like there are more cows than people, which is an adjustment coming from Toronto, but it has also helped me to learn about French culture more than I would in any big city.
My second piece of TAPIF advice is knowing you won’t be making a lot of money. The TAPIF salary sits at around $1100 a month which is enough for me to explore my region of France (on a budget) and afford a basic life in my city. I know some other people find the salary to be tight especially if they are placed in a more expensive region of France so I would consider having some money saved before starting TAPIF.
My third advice is to get involved! My time in TAPIF has been great because I asked to become involved with my school’s sports teams as well as becoming a member of the local library, sports associations and by attending the same types of events that the locals here do. Overall, if you can be flexible and embrace the culture of your French region, TAPIF is a great way to explore France’s culture.
How can people connect with you?
If you have any questions feel free to reach out, I can be contacted via my website : https://byelisekieffer.wordpress.com/
Sprunki Incredibox is a brilliant twist on the original, offering fresh beats and visuals that keep the creativity flowing. For game enthusiasts, checking out Car Games is also a must.
Really interesting read! I’m always looking for platforms that prioritize both fun and security. The visual approach of 789taya game sounds great – a clean interface is key for a smooth experience, especially with mobile gaming! 👍
**mind vault**
mind vault is a premium cognitive support formula created for adults 45+. It’s thoughtfully designed to help maintain clear thinking
Love how scratch cards mix luck and strategy-it’s like a digital treasure hunt! It’s refreshing to find platforms like AI Reviews Assistant that simplify complex tech just as well as they simplify gameplay.
That’s a solid point about team synergy! Seeing how platforms like winph99 games prioritize secure logins & fast payouts really builds trust, mirroring what good teamwork needs. Legit sites are key! 🤔
Solid article! Thinking about bankroll management & adapting to faster games is key in modern poker. Tech like seamless funding via phlwin app download could really speed up those re-buys during a tourney! Definitely a game changer.
**breathe**
breathe is a plant-powered tincture crafted to promote lung performance and enhance your breathing quality.
Yo, just checked out hubet8811, and it’s pretty decent! The interface is smooth, and they got a good selection. Worth a look if you’re bored. Check it out here: hubet8811
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Needed a reliable login portal and ckcbetlogin came through! Quick, easy, and always works. A total lifesaver, especially when you’re in a rush! Details here: ckcbetlogin
That’s a fascinating point about pacing – crucial in both racing and music creation! I’ve been exploring Sprunki Retake – the drag & drop interface is surprisingly intuitive. Great for a creative break!
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
The 55clubapp is seriously addictive! So many games to choose from, and the interface is really smooth. Get it at 55clubapp, you won’t regret it!
Hey, I’ve been using rich9login lately, and it’s been solid. Easy to navigate and quick logins. If you’re looking for something reliable, give it a shot. Check out rich9login at rich9login
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks! https://www.binance.info/register?ref=IXBIAFVY
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article. https://accounts.binance.info/pl/register?ref=UM6SMJM3
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article. https://accounts.binance.com/bn/register?ref=WTOZ531Y
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you. https://accounts.binance.com/sl/register?ref=I3OM7SCZ
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good. https://www.binance.info/es-AR/register?ref=UT2YTZSU
Just spent some time spinning on abc8slot. Honestly, not bad! Graphics are clean, and I even snagged a couple of small wins. Worth a look if you’re a slots fan. Try your luck here: abc8slot
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you. https://www.binance.com/uk-UA/register?ref=XZNNWTW7
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article. https://accounts.binance.com/vi/register?ref=MFN0EVO1
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me? https://accounts.binance.info/el/register-person?ref=DB40ITMB
Alright, trying pkslots out tonight. Hoping for some good luck. Slots time at pkslots!
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you. https://accounts.binance.info/sl/register-person?ref=I3OM7SCZ
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me. https://accounts.binance.info/sl/register-person?ref=I3OM7SCZ
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me? https://accounts.binance.com/register-person?ref=IXBIAFVY
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Popped into 96clubpk for a bit. Not the worst not the best I have seen. Try and see what you think about 96clubpk.
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me? https://www.binance.com/pt-BR/register?ref=GJY4VW8W
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article. https://www.binance.info/uk-UA/register?ref=XZNNWTW7
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Jaiho Arcade APK, eh? If you’re looking for some old-school arcade action on your phone, this is probably what you’re after. Download was smooth, and the games are pretty fun for a quick fix. Download for a good time here: jaihoarcadeapk.
Alright guys, tried KheloBet and it’s not bad! Easy to use and a decent selection of games. Could use a little more pep but overall, worth checking out! Find your next win at khelobet!
Maxwinexch365 – hmm, been there, done that. Good selection of exchange options. Site is average, nothing flashy. If you’re into exchange betting, might be worth it. Explore it at maxwinexch365!
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
**mitolyn official**
Mitolyn is a carefully developed, plant-based formula created to help support metabolic efficiency and encourage healthy, lasting weight management.
Hey, just wondering ‘nesine yasal mı’? From what I understand, Nesine operates legally here, they seem to be legit and above board. nesine yasal mı
Agent747 is a pretty solid option for some casual gaming. I like the selection of games and the interface is pretty user-friendly. Definitely recommend giving it a try if you’re looking for a new place to play! agent747
For real, Matbet TV is a lifesaver when you need to watch live games. Quick streams, everything in one place. Give it a gander! matbet tv canlı izle
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you. https://www.binance.com/zh-CN/register?ref=WFZUU6SI
x7777appdownload… that’s a lot of sevens! Hoping this app is easy to download and even easier to win on. Time to give it a shot! Download, install, win! x7777appdownload
Had a bit of trouble with w888login at first. Took a couple tries to get in but once I did, the site worked smoothly. Worth it if you’re already using the service. Check out w888login for access.
99boncasino looks pretty slick! Lots of different games to choose from so easy to find something that is to your taste. I’d suggest looking at 99boncasino
MM88Casino? Heard some whispers about it. Seems like your average online casino. I’d do some digging before throwing any serious cash their way, you know? Just be careful and play responsibly! mm88casino
Downloaded the Pokerbaazi apk from here the other day, and it works great on my phone. Smooth interface, really easy to use. If you’re playing on mobile, definitely grab it. Get your poker fix with: pokerbaazi apk
Daily jililoginregister, easy peasy to get set up. The registration process was super smooth. I was up and running in no time. Ready to start your daily jili? dailyjililoginregister
**aquasculpt**
aquasculpt is a premium metabolism-support supplement thoughtfully developed to help promote efficient fat utilization and steadier daily energy.
**herpafend official**
Herpafend is a natural wellness formula developed for individuals experiencing symptoms related to the herpes simplex virus. It is designed to help reduce the intensity and frequency of flare-ups while supporting the bodys immune defenses.
**prodentim**
ProDentim is a distinctive oral-care formula that pairs targeted probiotics with plant-based ingredients to encourage strong teeth, comfortable gums, and reliably fresh breath
**mounja boost official**
MounjaBoost is a next-generation, plant-based supplement created to support metabolic activity, encourage natural fat utilization, and elevate daily energywithout extreme dieting or exhausting workout routines.
**men balance pro**
MEN Balance Pro is a high-quality dietary supplement developed with research-informed support to help men maintain healthy prostate function.
**prostafense**
ProstAfense is a premium, doctor-crafted supplement formulated to maintain optimal prostate function, enhance urinary performance, and support overall male wellness.
**neurosharp**
Neuro Sharp is an advanced cognitive support formula designed to help you stay mentally sharp, focused, and confident throughout your day.
**boostaro**
Boostaro is a purpose-built wellness formula created for men who want to strengthen vitality, confidence, and everyday performance.
**back biome**
Mitolyn is a carefully developed, plant-based formula created to help support metabolic efficiency and encourage healthy, lasting weight management.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article. https://www.binance.com/ph/register?ref=IU36GZC4
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
King98slot, huh? Not bad, not bad. Good selection of slots, pretty smooth interface. Wish they had a loyalty program. Still, I’ve had some decent wins. Give it a spin: king98slot
Sambacasinoslots… Feels like a party! Good selection of slots, bright and colourful. The promotions are alright. Happy gambling, amigos: sambacasinoslots
Soicauwin888… If you’re into this kind of thing, sure. I’ve got nothing! Try it out for yourself, maybe you’ll get lucky: soicauwin888
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks! https://www.binance.com/tr/register?ref=MST5ZREF
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
Bet23… yeah, I’ve spent some time there. Nothing revolutionary, but it does the job. If you’re looking to place a few bets, you can’t really go wrong. Tap here to start betting: bet23
Heard Super Ace 2 is the bomb! Gonna check it out, fingers crossed for some wins! Check it out here super ace 2.
Vmax88, huh? Added it to my list of sites to explore. What do you guys think? Worth a try? Visit Vmax88 here vmax88.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks! https://www.binance.info/register?ref=IHJUI7TF
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good. https://accounts.binance.info/tr/register-person?ref=MST5ZREF
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks! https://accounts.binance.com/sl/register?ref=I3OM7SCZ
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me? https://accounts.binance.info/en/register-person?ref=JHQQKNKN
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good. https://accounts.binance.com/ro/register-person?ref=HX1JLA6Z
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
99betslotlogin seems like a decent place to spin some reels. Quick login and a good variety of slots. I’m hoping for a big win soon! Check it out here 99betslotlogin
Alright, hopped onto q777login for a bit. The site loads fast which is a win. I’m checking it out with some friends tonight; wish us luck! Check them out here q777login
Downloaded the bdmbetapp the other day. Pretty smooth experience on my phone, which is what I wanted. Makes it easy to get some spins in while I’m on the go. Worth a look!. Check it out here bdmbetapp