Supporting a 'Classical' education

Researchers at Nottingham University Business School have been working with a Nottingham alumna as part of an Impact Case Study on improving the attractiveness of small- and medium-sized firms.

Florence Forte graduated with a BA in Classics in 2014 and since then has spent time teaching in the UK and Italy. As a fluent Italian speaker and passionate Classicist, Florence spotted an opportunity to combine skills to create a unique learning experience for students. In 2018 she founded Forte Academy, an innovative venture providing the study of Classics and Italy together through unique learning experiences in Florence, the Amalfi Coast and London.

Enthusing about the company philosophy, Florence explained: "We believe that to live and learn in Italy with like-minded individuals can be a life-changing experience and authentic cultural immersion is a fundamental part of this learning process. For this reason, our summer courses always include enrolment in an art and cookery class or two, introduction to the Italian language, site visits and a programme of options for nightlife that only locals would know about, to ensure a well-rounded experience. 

"All our tutors have lived in Italy and we maintain close links with the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS Italia) and local partners to keep up to date on events and developments. We believe that all aspects of life (and all career paths) are enriched against the backdrop of a Classical education in context."

Forte Academy's courses are aimed at students of all ages with an interest in mythology, history, literature, philosophy, art and languages. In addition to language study, students also receive Classical/Italian literature and art tuition, hear from a wide range of guest speakers and visit culturally important sites, museums, churches and gardens.

As a subject traditionally perceived within the UK as ‘elite’, Forte Academy has provided a much-needed refreshing update to the study of Classics as a whole. The short course duration of 1 or 2 weeks affords greater accessibility, whilst ensuring enough content is packed in to attract students from some of the UKs top calibre Universities, including Nottingham. But what really sets the course apart is Florence’s own infectious enthusiasm for Classics, and her keen eye for helping students spot Classical influences in modern life - including Drake, Eminem and Latin memes!

Speaking of her involvement with the Impact Case study, Florence commented: “The advice from the researchers at the University of Nottingham has been really useful in helping me consider where to go next with my business, as well as new ways to approach potential corporate partners. I have already been able to implement some of the suggestions to improving the firm’s online attractiveness and am looking forward to continued support at the beginning of 2020.”

Find out more about Forte Academy