A Classical Education in
Florence & London
About Us
Forte Academy is an independent, educational organisation dedicated to interdisciplinary teaching and research in Latin, Classics, Philosophy, History, Art and Renaissance Studies.
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Based in Florence and London, we offer a range of seminar-based courses and workshops that combine rigorous scholarship with immersive cultural experiences designed to bring the classical world to life.
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Our Mission
Forte Academy is on a mission to #BalanceTheCanon - that is, to recover and integrate the intellectual contributions of women into the study of the classical tradition and Italian humanism. Our research focuses primarily on women's writing in Latin from antiquity to the early modern period, particularly within the context of Renaissance Italy. These insights directly inform our teaching and course offerings. Our holistic approach to education also equips students to see connections: between disciplines, between civilisations, and between the past and the present.
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Our Philosophy
Our philosophy is to question everything. We teach our students how to think, not what to think. Our courses prioritise:
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Close engagement with primary sources
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Critical, independent thinking
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Language and research skills
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A spirit of intellectual curiosity
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We believe that a well-rounded classical education is valuable for everyone - not just as an academic pursuit, but as a way to think more clearly, live more fully and engage deeply and meaningfully with the world. It strengthens the skills needed to thrive in any career, whilst keeping us grounded in the bigger picture. ​
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What We Offer
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Summer Courses
Since 2019, we have offered 1-2 week summer courses in Florence - including Classics Abroad and Women Latinists. Currently held biannually, these courses are a dynamic blend of thematic seminars, cultural visits and creative activities - designed to bring Classical and Renaissance texts, artwork and ideas to life in their original contexts.
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Workshops
Our short workshops take place throughout the year in Florence and London, often in collaboration with leading institutions. These events are designed to be educational and engaging - combining intellectual content with hands-on, creative activities.
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We have previously organised workshops at a range of institutions, including The Warburg Institute, The Medici Archive Project and The Monnalisa School. We also offer bespoke workshops for organisations, institutes and individuals. If you're interested in hosting a workshop, please get in touch with Florence at info@forte-academy.co.uk.
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Since 2019, we have welcomed 250+ school leavers, undergraduate and postgraduate students, teachers, librarians, artists, lecturers and independent learners on summer courses and workshops with Forte Academy. We also offer 1-on-1 tutoring and small group Latin learning experiences on a limited, bespoke basis. ​How can you get involved? Follow us on Instagram or subscribe to our quarterly MOON Letter to be notified about our upcoming courses and events. If you're a department or individual in a position to support our teaching and research mission, please consider making a donation.