Hello! My name is Élodie Cottin, and I am thrilled to join the dynamic community at DBSJ as your new French language teacher.
I am originally from France and have spent the last eight years in education. I hold a Professional Teaching Certificate and a Master’s degree in Sciences of Education from the American University in Dubai.
My teaching journey includes experiences in IB and international school education, primarily working with diverse age groups (6 to 11 years old) as a French bilingual homeroom teacher. I have a special interest in Special Educational Needs and learning disabilities, driving my commitment to an inclusive classroom environment. My goal is to tailor my strategies to meet the diverse needs of all my students, ensuring everyone can thrive and enjoy learning French.
In my classroom, expect a student-centered approach where learning is fun, interactive, and connected to real-life experiences. Engaging activities and a supportive atmosphere are key to building confidence and proficiency in French.
Outside of teaching, I am sporty and adventurous. I play beach volleyball, do CrossFit, and enjoy hiking. I spend most weekends exploring the UAE’s desert landscapes, driving off-road, and camping when the season allows.
Additionally, I have a passion for reading, particularly adventure books, historical fiction, and philosophical works. Two of my favorite books are “”The Lord of the Rings”” by J.R.R. Tolkien and “”The Forty Rules of Love”” by Elif Shafak. I love these books because they made me cry, laugh, identify with the characters, and gave me a lot to think about. I believe in the power of reading and that books can change our lives.
I am excited to join the DBSJ community and look forward to creating a vibrant and inspiring learning environment. I am eager to engage with the diverse school community and support our students’ growth as confident and enthusiastic French speakers. Let’s make this a wonderful year of learning and growth together!