Meet the Director – Joelle Acade, ACET, Cork

Meet the Director – Joelle Acade, ACET, Cork 

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind starting your language centre?

ACET was first established in Cork in 1975 by my parents Odile Migieu and Pat Coade.   I  joined the Company in 2000.  Prior to 2019, we were known as Cork Language Centre International.  We decided to restructure the company and adopt a modern up to date philosophy. We are still a family owned business and we like to think this represents a key selling point for many of our clients who like to see consistent long-term leadership.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting your business, and how did you overcome them?

It really didn’t apply to me in 1975 but in the current climate, there are many.  Attracting students and teachers is essential for the success of our school.  We need to have good marketing strategies and building an online presence which can be challenging. We need to adapt to market trends.  Educational trends and preferences evolve.  Staying informed about changes in language learning methodologies and adapting your curriculum accordingly is essential it all comes down to commitment to providing high quality education and services. 

How has your centre evolved since its inception?

Like I previously mentioned we rebranded our school in 2019 and it was more about implementing a modern up to date philosophy.  We aim to deliver quality courses in a learner-centred environment for international clients and trainee teachers in a positive and inclusive environment. To focus on the clients real and practical needs and to offer a full range of student support services.

We focus on more than just courses.  We strive to provide a comprehensive Irish experience.  This includes attention to their accommodation and Irish Life & Culture activities and seminars, ensuring an enjoyable stay.

What values or principles guide your company

Our ethos and principles are reflected in our mission statement in which our objective is to deliver English Language Training Courses that surpasses international standards. We aim to create a positive, inclusive, and client-centred environment, offering a variety of support services. Our goal is not only to enhance our clients’ English proficiency, classroom management, methodology but also to ensure they thoroughly enjoy their stay in Ireland.

How do you maintain a strong company culture

It is important to have a positive and cohesive working environment. We clearly articulate the company’s value and our mission.  We ensure that every employee in ACET understands and aligns with these guiding principles. We lead by example, in the sense we embody the values we expect from employees, demonstration integrity, collaboration and a commitment to ACET’s goals. We encourage open and transparent communication at all levels.  They should feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, ideas and concerns.  Regular team meetings, feeback sessions help build trust.

We involve employees in decision making processes.  Seek their input on important matters.  This gives them a sense of ownership and inclusivity. Recognise and appreciate employees for their contributions.  Celebrate achievements and hard work.  We recently received an All Ireland Business Foundation All-Ireland Business All-Star Language School of the Year 2024 accreditation and it couldn’t have been done without the team.

How do you foster collaboration and teamwork within your company?

We invest in the professional development of employees.  Provide opportunities for learning, skill development and career growth. Promote a healthy work-life balance.  Encourage reasonable working hours and respect for their personal time. We organise regular team-building activities.  We recently went to a improv show at the Opera house together.  This helps positive relationships among team members.

How do you incorporate sustainability and corporate social responsibility within your company?

This is also the ethos of our mission statement, where we use strategies to develop social responsibility and guide the company is a positive direction. We have implemented eco-friendly practices to reduce ACET’s environmental footprint.  We were the first English Language school in Ireland to become an accredited member of Green Standard Schools.  To become accredited, we needed to demonstrate a serious commitment to environmental sustainability. We chose suppliers and work with partners who adhere to ethical and environmental standards. We encourage and support green practices within ACET and provide an education on the importance of sustainability. We uphold ethical standards in all business dealings. We integrate sustainability into long term business planning.

What do you personally consider to be the benefits and opportunities from Erasmus+ for participants and institutions?

Benefits for Participants :

They gain the opportunity to experience life and education in a different European country. Participants acquire valuable skills, language proficiency, intercultural competence and adaptability. Erasmus+ experiences are viewed favourably by employers.  It provides a chance for participants to develop a broader skill set. Participants have the opportunity to build international networks and making new connections with peers, professionals and organisations across Europe. Exposure to different cultures enhances participants’ cultural awareness and broadens their perspective.

Benefits for Institutions:

Language Schools that actively participate in Erasmus+ programs can enhance their reputation by providing diverse learning opportunities for their students and staff. The exchange of best practices and collaboration with international partners can contribute to the continuous improvement of teaching methods and curriculum development. Participation in Erasmus+ can increase the visibility of institutions on a European and international scale. Institutions can expand their network of partner organisations.    They are exposed to different educational approaches and perspectives. Offering Erasmus+ opportunities enhances the overall satisfaction of students and staff

Erasmus+ offers a wide range of benefits, including personal and professional development for participants and enhanced institutional quality and visibility. It plays a crucial role in promoting cooperation, and mutual understanding in the European education and training sector.

What can participants hope to achieve by attending an Erasmus+ professional development course at your language training centre?

Participants can expect to acquire new skills and knowledge relevant to teachers and ESL field.  Attending an Erasmus+ course at ACET provides an opportunity to connect with professionals from different countries.  This can open doors to collaboration and partnerships. If the course involves language training, participants can expect to improve their language skills and proficiency. Participants will likely experience immersion in the local culture of Cork. 

Engaging in a professional development course can boost participants’ confidence in their skills and abilities. ACET shares best practice in education and training.  Participants can gain insight into effective teaching that they can apply in their own professional settings.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the future of your business?

We strive to maintain and enhance academic excellence by continually updating and improving programmes. By embracing innovative teaching methodologies and educational technologies to enhance the learning experience for clients, expanding the range of programmes and services offered to cater to diverse clients needs, establishing and strengthening partnerships with other educational institutions to promote collaboration, Focusing on comprehensive client support services to ensure the well-being of and success of clients.

Learn more about ACET, Cork