Here we propose a conceptual distinction among "educazione," "istruzione" and "formazione" on the basis of the Italian socio-cultural heritage and we consider the role that teacher has historically assumed in this context. Then, we analyze the competences ascribable to the "teacher" today. Finally, we highlight how the relationship among concepts of increasing importance in the actual learning-teaching process, such as "active citizenship," "self-formation" and "accompanying," is determined by different attitudes and postures towards teaching and learning.