March 30, 2025 | Royal Olympic Hotel, Athens
The Foreign Languages Forum – Athens 2025 is set to bring together language educators, experts, and industry leaders for a day of insightful discussions, professional development, and networking opportunities. As one of the most anticipated ELT events of the year, the Athens Forum will feature cutting-edge plenary sessions, hands-on workshops, and a comprehensive book exhibition, offering valuable resources and strategies for modern language teaching.
From AI-driven education and exam success strategies to inclusive teaching methodologies and professional growth, this year's event will explore the evolving landscape of language learning.
Why Attend?
✔️ Gain insights from renowned ELT professionals
✔️ Discover innovative teaching approaches & classroom strategies
✔️ Explore the latest materials & technology at the Book Exhibition
✔️ Connect with fellow educators and industry experts
Stay tuned for the full programme release and registration details!
Who is speaking
Stephen-John Taylor
Seminar and Webinar Presenter
Dimitris Primalis
Teacher Trainer, Microsoft Innovative Educator Fellow, Head of FL Dept at Evropaiko Protypo
Katherine Reilly
Author & Teacher Trainer
Panoraia Rea Balali
EFL Educator, Teacher Coordinator, Educational Content Creator
Dr Ilias A. Vasileiou
Post-Doc in Ex. Functions, PhD in SLD, MSc SEN, PgCert in Behaviour Management
Dimitrios N. Ziogas
CEO / Founder butterfly publishing
Maria Diavati
Academic Consultant, MacMillan Education Greece
Katerina Mantadaki
Senior ELT Educational Consultant, EXPRESS PUBLISHING
Anne Leventeris
Senior Teacher Trainer, Burlington Books.
Dr Panagiota Bourtsoukli
FLS Owner
Natassa Manitsa
Academic Consultant, MacMillan Education Greece
Workshop
Which are the stories hiding in these paintings?
Working on the story of a painting brings so much more than language learning. It acts as a glue which blends language, art, history, geography and psychology learning.
Interpreting a visual text activates cross-curricular, multimodal approaches and helps students access their creative side. Learners hone their research skills, use ambitious vocabulary and literacy skills to describe the story of a painting.
After kicking off with a mini tutorial on the language, elements and genres of paintings, this session will heavily rely on audience participation to showcase how paintings can enrich class experiences and engage students from early to advanced language levels.
Workshop
How to put up a play!
Embarking on a new production can be overwhelming, raising concerns such as: How am I going to build the set? Will there be sufficient time for rehearsals? What about costumes? Join me and find out easy steps to lay the groundwork for a super successful production with your young learners.
Download the programme
Plenary Sessions & Featured Presentations
Stephen-John Taylor
Boosting Scores in Language Exams:The Role Played by Vocabulary
When it comes to grading language exams, just how far does vocabulary contribute towards the final score? And does topic-specific vocabulary —e.g. “file,” “download,” or “application” in a technology-themed question—give candidates an extra edge?
This session explores these very issues. We’ll look at how examiners balance lexical choice with other factors such as coherence, grammar, and overall clarity. Drawing on real-world examples and research, we’ll unpack whether using the “right” words for a given topic significantly impacts grades, or if it’s just one piece of a bigger puzzle.
We’ll also discuss practical tips for teachers to help students build a strong, topic-specific vocabulary base while keeping their writing natural and engaging. By the end of this session, educators and examiners will have a clearer picture of how to evaluate writing fairly and, using the latest technology, better support learners preparing for success in their exams.
Dr Ilias A. Vasileiou
Written Language Production in the Form of a Game: The Example of the Educational Playbox
This presentation explores the innovative approach of integrating game elements into written language production through the Educational Playbox. The Playbox serves as an engaging educational tool designed to enhance students’ creative writing skills and motivation. By combining educational principles with playful interaction, it transforms the process of writing into a game-like experience.
Through specific examples, we will highlight how the Educational Playbox supports learners in developing narrative structures, expanding vocabulary, and fostering collaboration. The presentation will also address the pedagogical benefits of this method, emphasizing its capacity to create a positive learning environment that encourages active participation and enjoyment in written language activities.
Dimitris Primalis
AI In Action! Engage learners with practical activities
Who says that ChatGPT and AI in education are good only for cheating? Generative AI offers innovative opportunities to revolutionize language learning. Instead of viewing technology as a threat, educators can strategically harness students' digital creativity to enhance language acquisition. By integrating AI tools selectively, teachers can design engaging activities that develop linguistic skills, stimulate critical and creative thinking, and boost learners' confidence in using English. The workshop features tools, activities, and techniques that teachers can use with their students. A hands on session designed by a teacher for frontline teachers.
Dr Jenny Liontou
Breaking Down Walls: Supporting EFL Students with Diverse Learning Needs
Teaching foreign languages to Students with Diverse Learning Needs (SwDLNs) presents unique challenges for learners and educators alike. Bearing in mind these challenges, the current presentation aims to elaborate on the needs of SwDLNs (visual, hearing, physical/mobility impairments, learning differences) by interpreting findings from 15 interviews carried out with SwDLNs in Greece. The findings of this study that forms part of an ERASMUS+ funded project (SPLENDID) bring into the limelight specific aspects of cognitive and linguistic support that SwDLNs need to receive from their teachers in order to develop their language skills. Practical guidance will be offered to EFL teachers and material developers, focusing on evidence-based teaching practices beneficial to SwDLNs.
By leveraging inclusive teaching practices, assistive technologies, and differentiated materials, educators could further promote an inclusive classroom environment where every student has an equal chance to thrive.
Katherine Reilly
My Brain is Not Braining! Brain-Based Grammar for Real-World Understanding
Ever heard a student say, “My brain is not braining!”? Language is evolving, and our brains are wired to make sense of even unconventional grammar. In this session, we move beyond dry rules and tap into cognitive science to teach grammar in a way that aligns with how the mind actually processes language. Through chunking, prediction, repetition, and visual mapping, you’ll discover quick, engaging techniques that make grammar natural, memorable, and student-approved. Expect hands-on activities, real-classroom applications, and plenty of "aha!" moments that prove grammar isn’t just about correctness—it’s about understanding meaning!
*Teaching materials handout will be offered to all participants
Panoraia (Rea) Balali
InnerScape Tales: Play - Reflect - Discover the Stories Within
This presentation offers a fresh approach to language teaching by integrating creativity, imagination, and emotional learning through the use of symbolisms. Drawing from Relational Psychology principles and acknowledging the potential of metaphors and free associations as powerful tools for self-discovery and emotional expression in language learning, InnerScape Tales provides teachers with a tool to help students articulate their inner worlds and foster empathy while developing important language skills, such as creative writing and storytelling. This hands-on, interactive approach incorporates SEL into language teaching, leading to a more engaging classroom environment where students can thrive both personally and linguistically.
Antigone Gika
Christina Prentza
Grammar Games in G Minor
Grammar lessons often march to the beat of rules, drills, and worksheets—the so-called major keys of language teaching. Teachers swear by them, but students? They often hear nothing but a dull, repetitive tune. For them, the real major moments in language learning come through songs, drama, riddles, games, and acting out—a symphony of fun that makes learning stick.
This presentation flips the script by exploring how alternative, playful methods can make grammar sing. Just like a melody in a minor key can be unexpectedly rich and expressive, grammar in G Minor shifts the focus from rigid rules to creative play. Expect a session filled with hands-on activities, laughter, and fresh ideas that help grammar sneak into students’ minds without the usual groans and sighs. Let’s make grammar not just a subject to study, but a game to play and a tune to remember!
Professional Presentations
4 Minds B2, C1/C2: Life Skills, Creativity, and Communication for the Real World
4 Minds is an engaging new English course for B2 and C1/C2 levels that brings language to life through current, real-world topics and authentic videos. With a focus on 21st-century skills, students develop the competencies they need to succeed in and beyond the classroom. STEAM activities, life skills, mediation, and digital literacy foster creativity, effective communication, and independent learning. Designed to prepare learners for all major language exams at B2 and C1/C2 levels, 4 Minds offers comprehensive practice to build confidence and ensure success.
Express Digiplus: AI-Powered Learning for a Smarter, Adaptive Classroom
Discover how AI-powered tools can transform language classrooms by creating personalised learning paths. This session will showcase the impact of an adaptive AI platform on student engagement, performance, and skill development. Embrace AI for a more dynamic and responsive learning experience!
STEAM, Cartoons and Timeless Values—Educating Hearts and Minds with HappyToons!
HappyToons is a fun, dynamic English course for primary learners, blending excitement, values, and discovery! With inclusive characters, STEAM activities, Values Education, 3D animations, and cutting-edge digital tools, it sparks curiosity, builds strong language skills, and nurtures character—turning every lesson into an adventure for both mind and heart!
Metaskills and a Content-based Syllabus shape the future of Education.
This session will explore how Content-based learning becomes the most powerful tool for fostering metaskill mastery in students. We will discuss the theoretical foundations of metaskills and their relevance in contemporary education. We will also focus on how prioritizing content can explicitly promote the development of critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Together, we will examine how a Content-based curriculum can cultivate self-aware, reflective, and strategic learners who are prepared to excel in the challenges of the 21st century.
Come on Everybody…. Join In
Encourage your students to learn, think and create together with Join In 1 for A Class and Join In 2 for B Class. Join In combines adventure stories with a wealth of real-world information and is packed with engaging and challenging activities that will develop critical and creative thinking as well as enhance all four major skills.
Why just teach when you can Inspire?
Inspire!B1, B1+ and B2 use an innovative combination of print and digital materials to bring learning to life and life to learning. Inspire! includes up-to-date topics that teens can relate to and develops key 21st century competencies, while preparing students for all B2 exams.
Fly to ... Exam: Cultivating skills, not just scores
The "Fly to ... Exam" series is designed with a dual focus: to ensure students not only excel in their exams but also develop a deep, functional understanding of the English language. This presentation will explore how our books move beyond traditional test preparation by
emphasizing comprehensive skill development and practical language use.
Ensuring Quality Teaching in FLS
Quality in education is a dynamic, ongoing process that requires teachers and Foreign Language Schools (FLS) to commit to high standards. Accreditation frameworks like EAQUALS and QLS help institutions align with global excellence by ensuring effective academic programmes and continuous improvement. These standards guide institutions toward fostering quality teaching and learning environments.
Join the Cool Team! – New Junior Series
Meet Toby and his awesome friends as they take you on epic adventures in an English-speaking world!
Give your students the perfect mix of learning and fun—because mastering a language should always be cool!
Developing student (and teacher) responsibility in the age of generative AI
The debate about the uses and misuses of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has been divisive in English language teaching with some teachers championing AI’s integration and others suspicious that it may deskill our learners. This session argues that we need to embrace gen AI and that this is best done if both teachers and learners have a clear understanding of what is generally considered to be principled AI use. It then proposes interventions for when students misuse AI in order to gain an unfair advantage in their work.
Big Hearts, Bright Minds: Nurturing Global Citizens Through SEL (Social & Emotional Learning)
Language learning is more than just acquiring words; it’s about developing confidence, empathy, and a sense of connection with the world. This session explores how Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) supports learners of all ages in becoming thoughtful, responsible global citizens. Through engaging stories, interactive activities, and meaningful discussions, we’ll examine how fostering self-awareness, collaboration, and kindness enhances both communication and social responsibility. Join us to discover how SEL creates a foundation for lifelong learning, effective communication, and a more compassionate world - one heartfelt lesson at a time!
Making a Difference in the Inclusive EFL Classroom
Struggling to meet the needs of all learners in your EFL classroom? Join Anastasia Metallinou for a dynamic and insightful session on creating truly inclusive learning environments. Gain practical, research-backed strategies to support diverse learners, including those with SpLDs, and transform your teaching approach. Walk away with actionable techniques to boost motivation, engagement, and success for every student. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your classroom and empower your learners!
Using Artificial Intelligence to address learner errors.
While we have hopefully moved on from the tyranny of the red pen, debates continue about the place of error correction in the English language classroom. What are errors and how do they differ from mistakes? Does it matter? Should we aim to eradicate them, or in fact encourage them? And how can generative artificial intelligence help us to make principled use of error correction? This session tackles these questions and suggests solutions.
Sustainabliss: International Days and Sustainable Goals aligned
This presentation explores the infusion of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into educational frameworks and the alignment of these goals with International Days. Emphasising the transformative potential of education, the discussion will focus on how integrating SDGs into curricula can foster a holistic and sustainable worldview among students. By aligning educational activities with international days such as World Environment Day, International Day of Education and International Day of Peace, the aim is to create meaningful, context-driven learning experiences that promote global citizenship and environmental awareness.
ΔΕΠ-Υ (Διαταραχή Ελλειμματικής Προσοχής / Υπερκινητικότητα) and the English classroom
Σε μία ιδανική τάξη, όλοι οι μαθητές είναι καθισμένοι στα θρανία τους και παρακολουθούν με μεγάλη προσήλωση το μάθημα και τον δάσκαλό τους. Στην πραγματικότητα όμως, πολλοί μαθητές παρουσιάζουν δυσκολίες συγκέντρωσης, εμποδίζοντας την ομαλή διεξαγωγή του μαθήματος και ενοχλώντας τους συμμαθητές τους. Με ποιούς τρόπους μπορούμε να βοηθήσουμε τους μαθητές μας;
Stop Marking as if you were in 1995!
Discover how to save yourself hours of essay marking and correcting time.
Edwiboing your students’ written assignments will give you:
-Instant assessment in seconds,
-Grading tailored to meet the individual student’s performance,
-Accurate feedback on grammar and vocabulary errors,
-Objective and consistent evaluation of coherence and cohesion of text,
-An improved version of the learner’s written work
-Extra tasks directed at the specific needs of each student,
-Insights into how to improve your teaching of Writing Skills.
… and all this based on the criteria of your chosen Examination Board and for the specific CEFR level of your students!
Cambridge Digital Exams in a Digital World
Today’s youth are digital natives, growing up in an ever-evolving technological landscape. Before long, persuading students to take a paper-based exam will be a challenge of the past.
Cambridge has embraced this shift, introducing a cutting-edge, user-friendly digital exam experience—available for all levels, from YLE to Proficiency. Curious to learn more? Join Michael Anetopoulos, CEM of Cambridge Examination Centre GR801, as he shares key insights and insider tips.
Exhibitors
