school systems in France

When you arrive in France, the issue of choosing of school system for your little ones arises.

The French school system has a reputation for being very academic.

Here’s some information to guide you:

* Nursery School from 3 to 5 years old, divided into Petite/Moyenne/Grande Section classes
* Primary School from 6 to 10 years old, split into CP/CE1/CE2/CM1/CM2 classes
* Secondary School from 11 to 14 years old, split into 6ème/5ème/4ème/3ème classes
* High School from 15 to 18 years old, split into Seconde/1ère/Terminale classes

The French school system is divided into 2 categories:

public institutions (to register your child, you need to apply at the town hall of your district)
private institutions (to register your child, you need to apply to the institution and make a very detailed application (cover letter and school reports to be able to get an appointment for a potential admission)
The bilingual school system is a good option for English-speaking families.

This teaching is completely private and places are limited.

Admission is by application and interview. Priority is often given to foreigners or children arriving from English-speaking schools.

Whatever school system you choose for your children, you need to understand the cultural shock that children experience when they arrive in France.

The article entitled “10 tips for preparing for your child’s return to France” may give you some ideas.

French Touch offers a tailor-made service to assist you in this process. Make the most of French Touch’s experience and methods, call us, we take care of everything!