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The 4th International Language Coaching Conference
Málaga
June 13th - 15th, 2025
The 4th International Language Coaching Conference in Málaga proved to be our most dynamic gathering yet, focusing on reflection, growth, and meaningful change in language coaching. The event featured engaging plenaries, diverse workshops, and unique outdoor sessions, all fostering a vibrant, collaborative atmosphere.
The conference kicked off with opening plenaries by ILCA co-founders Gabriella Kovács and Carrie McKinnon. Gabriella highlighted the critical need to align language coaching with contemporary demands for wellbeing, adaptability, and personalization, introducing the conference’s three core tracks: Personal Growth & Wellbeing, Language & Communication, and Success & Sustainability. Carrie then presented a data-driven perspective from ILCA’s multi-year analysis of the FEEL Program, showcasing the longitudinal development of coaching skills and emphasizing the power of “not knowing” in effective coaching.
Further plenaries included Gordon Lewis, who traced the evolution of English Language Teaching and the future role of AI, and Daniel Xerri, who presented research on factors leading to successful adaptability for educators.
Workshops and talks covered a broad spectrum of topics, including intercultural awareness, Gestalt coaching, accelerating collaboration in science and engineering, resilience, inclusive communication, and reaching different learner groups. Unique to this conference were the nature-based coaching sessions, with Gabriella Kovács leading an outdoor circle and Carrie McKinnon guiding a water-coaching session in the Mediterranean, offering a literal deep dive into reflective practice.
A heartfelt thank you to all our speakers, presenters, and attendees for making the 4th International Language Coaching Conference a truly memorable and impactful event. Your engagement, insights, and collaborative spirit are what make our community thrive.
The 3rd International Language Coaching Conference
Budapest
June 7th & 9th, 2024
The 2024 conference in Budapest marked a significant milestone, with attendance more than doubling compared to the previous year. Hosted at ELTE University, the event fostered a warm and collaborative atmosphere, facilitating meaningful connections among speakers and participants.
A notable addition this year was the introduction of TED-style talks, allowing speakers to present their key ideas succinctly to the entire audience. This format enabled attendees to identify workshops aligning with their interests while still benefiting from broader insights.
The conference commenced with an opening plenary by Carrie and Gabriella, sharing insights from their experience training over 20 cohorts of language coaches. Subsequent plenaries included Ruth Hughes discussing growth mindset and Sarah Mercer addressing language teacher agency for wellbeing. Workshops covered a diverse range of topics, offering practical knowledge and engaging participants in extended Q&A sessions.
Networking opportunities abounded during coffee and lunch breaks, with attendees exchanging contacts and continuing discussions from sessions. The third day introduced an outdoor session on Margaret Island, encouraging reflection on professional development amidst nature.
The conference concluded with reflections and plans for future events, including the announcement of the 4th International Language Coaching Conference in Spain in 2025.
The 2nd International Language Coaching Conference
Paris
June 17th & 18th, 2023
The 2023 conference in Paris focused on the theme of language coaching and transformation. It explored various aspects of transformation, including relational, visual, spatial, and aural perspectives, as well as specific coaching skills like listening and questioning.
Day 1 of the conference addressed topics such as transformation in language coaching, setting smart objectives, coaching outdoors, and understanding the impact of relational learning.
The first plenary discussed the state of the language coaching industry, its origins, trends, and the transition theme. Other sessions covered active listening, using rhythm in language coaching, and the benefits of coaching outdoors.
A panel discussion explored language coaching in the French market, while workshops emphasized collaboration, mindfulness in coaching, and the interconnectedness of knowledge and self-development.
Day 2 featured sessions on positive psychology coaching, tools for language coaching success, communication transformation in the classroom, coaching in group courses, the power of listening, visual techniques for communication, website attractiveness for clients, and personal growth through language coaching.
The conference concluded with a group reflective activity, promoting shared insights, discussions, and reflections among participants. Overall, the conference provided valuable insights and networking opportunities for language coaches to enhance their coaching skills and effectiveness.
The First International Language Coaching Conference in London, held on July 2, 2022, exceeded expectations in bringing together language educators and coaches from diverse countries. The conference aimed to deepen knowledge about language coaching and related areas within language education.
ILCA board members met in person after collaborating online for over two years, fostering a stronger sense of camaraderie. Attendees, including teachers, trainers, and language coaches from various countries, shared a common goal of understanding language coaching and its long-term impact.
The event marked the launch of “A Comprehensive Language Coaching Handbook (2022),” authored by Gabriella Kovács PCC, MA, signaling a new era in language coaching.
Speakers delivered high-quality talks and workshops, leaving attendees with thought-provoking questions, such as the role of teaching people rather than subjects and the perception of time in learning.
The networking event fostered connections and a sense of commonality among participants. A professional panel discussed financial aspects of language coaching, covering topics like niche specialization, working for free, and the importance of certifications.
The parallel workshops in the afternoon provided opportunities for growth and inspiration, although attendees faced the challenge of choosing among concurrent sessions. Overall, the conference left participants with valuable insights, connections, and a sense of unity within the language coaching community.