The 4th edition of the ECML Summer Academy, entitled “Inspiring Innovation in European Language Teacher Education”, took place from 30 June to 4 July 2025 at the ECML premises in Graz, Austria. Organised as part of the ongoing cooperation between the ECML and the European Commission, this initiative brought together 30 language teacher educators from 28 European countries, along with 8 international experts. The event offered an intensive and, living up to its title,  ‘inspiring’ week of exchange and professional development.

The Summer Academy has established itself as a successful format, offering a unique opportunity for teacher educators from across Europe to connect, to learn with and from each other, and to reflect on their professional expertise and experience within an intercultural context.

The 2025 programme focused on key developments in language teacher education. Topics included the role of teacher education in the context of linguistic and cultural plurality, the use and integration of ECML resources, digital literacy and language-friendly environments in times of artificial intelligence, current approaches to research in teacher education, as well as the identities, values and competences of language teacher educators.

Participants explored these topics in depth through a varied programme of presentations, interactive discussions and workshops. The academy not only fostered professional learning, but also supported the development of sustainable follow-up projects, ensuring that exchange and cooperation continue beyond the event. Participants worked on individual and collaborative project planning aimed at long-term impact.

Cultural and social activities complemented the professional development programme. Highlights included a guided walking tour of the beautiful city of Graz, an evening in the Styrian vineyards, and a special session at the University of Graz, hosted by the Austrian Association of the ECML. There, participants were welcomed by Professor Hermine Penz, with an engaging presentation by Eva Bauer on digital storytelling, which encouraged discussion and reflections on its classroom applications.

The Summer Academy provides a unique opportunity for intercultural and transnational exchange. It supports the European language education community and promotes quality, innovation, and inclusion in language teacher education.

For more information about the Summer Academy, please visit: www.ecml.at/summeracademy