Are you an expat family moving to France or considering it? Navigating the education system is a crucial aspect of your relocation journey. In this guide, we’ll delve into the realm of international schools in France, offering insights to help you make an informed decision for your child’s education.
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Types of international schools in France and accreditation
As expat families consider their move to France, the education of their children becomes a concern. International schools in France offer a rich array of curricula and educational pathways tailored to meet the diverse needs of expat families.
Diverse educational offerings
International schools in France cater to a wide age range and offer a plethora of curricular options, sometimes even offering specialised programs in the final years of schooling.
The International Primary Curriculum (IPC)
Introduced in 2000 by Fieldwork Education, the IPC is tailored to children aged three to ten. With en emphasis on nurturing global-mindedness, this curriculum encourages the exploration of world cultures and diverse perspectives. Currently, the Forest International School in Paris is the sole provider of IPC in France.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) in France
Recognised globally, the IB is taught in iver 3,000 schools across 143 countries. In France, 23 IB schools offer bilingual or solely English-language education for children aged three to nineteen. From sixteen, students can opt for the Diploma Program or the Career-related Program. The IB Diploma includes six subjects: languages, literature, sciences, mathematics, and arts.
The Baccalauréat Français International (BFI)
Distinct from the IB, the BFI is intended for bilingual or internationally-fluent students seeking to study in French universities. With study streams like L (French, Arts, Philosophy), ES (Economics, Mathematics) and S (Mathematics, Physics, Science), BFI offers automatic higher education admission in France and meets global university entry standards.
American International Schools and Advanced Placement (AP)
Some schools, like the American School of Paris, provide US-based programs that prepare students for a High School Diploma and College Board SAT exams, granting access to American universities. Advanced Placement (AP) classes are also available.
British International Schools
Accredited by COBIS, the British School of Paris and Mougins School on the Côte d’Azur offer British style education, culminating in GCSE and A-Level exams
The International General Certificate of Education (IGCSE)
Equivalent to the English GCSE, IGCSE is administered by various exam boards, including Edexcel and Cambridge. Students can transition from IGCSE to A-Levels, a common path to higher education in France.
The European Baccalauréat (EB)
Offered by European Schools, the EB is recognised internationally for its rigorous standards. It involves written exams in subjects like French, English, mathematics, along with elective subjects and oral exams.
Country-specific curriculum schools
Some international schools in France offer curricula aligned with the education authority of their home country, often supplemented with French classes.
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Understanding Accreditation
Accreditation plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and credibility of international schools. Reputed organizations such as the British Council, Council of British International Schools (CoBIS), Council of International Schools (CoIS), European Council of International Schools (ECIS), and Middle States Association (MSA) provide accreditation to international schools in France. This recognition assures parents of an education that adheres to global standards and prepares students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
By exploring the diverse types of international schools and their accreditations in France, expat families can make informed decisions that align with their educational aspirations for their children. From fostering international-mindedness to offering globally recognised qualifications, these schools offer a holistic and enriching educational experience.
Should you choose an international school? Pros and cons
Advantage of international schools
Enhanced facilities and activities: International schools offer top-notch facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Globally recognised qualifications: Students earn internationally recognised qualifications that ease their transition between countries.
Cultural diversity: Exposure to a diverse community fosters a global perspective and language skills.
Small class sizes: Smaller classes mean more individualised attention and better teacher-student ratios.
Consistency for future moves: Some curricula, like the IB, provide consistency for students moving between countries.
Considerations for international schools
Higher fees: International educations comes at a cost, but financial aid, scholarships and payment plans may be available.
Language Integration: Some students may experience less integration into the local culture and language.
Entrance texts: Admissions might involve entrance test, adding academic pressure on students.
Location: Most international schools are concentrated in larger cities, limiting options in some regions.
Choosing the right international school
Selecting the best-fit international school in pivotal for your child’s education journey. Consider these factors during your decision-making process:
- Location: Proximity to your residence and availability of boarding facilities.
- Curriculum: Choose a curriculum aligned with your child’s educational goals and interests.
- Language mix: Evaluate the nationalities of teachers and students for a diverse environment.
- Available qualifications: Some schools offer a variety of qualification, like the IB, EGCSE, or country-specific diplomas.
- Reputation and academic results: Research school reputation and academic performance to gauge quality.
- Fees: Budget consideration is essential, employer might subsidise educational fees.
- Admission procedure: Check admission requirements, assessments, and enrolment procedures.
Financial aid and scholarships
Financial Support: Subsidies and scholarships exist for low-income families, covering school materials, meals, and travel. Specific subsidies apply to students with disabilities.
Private School Assistance: Private secondary schools may offer support based on parental income and merit grants for high-achieving students.
Applying for Financial Aid: Application processes differ for public and private schools. Submit scholarship requests at the beginning of the school year through relevant portals or school secretariats.
International schools in France
Here is a list of international schools in France
- The International School of Brittany (Rennes, Brittany)
- The International School of Normandy, ISN (Rouen, Normandy)
- International School of Toulouse (Languedoc-Roussillon)
- International School of Montpellier (Languedoc-Roussillon)
- International School of Nice (Côte d’Azur)
- Mougins School (Côte d’Azur)
- Bordeaux International School (Aquitaine)
- The American School of Paris
- The British School of Paris
- The International School of Paris
- The Lycée International de Saint Germain-en-Laye (Paris)
- The École Jeannine Manuel (Paris)
Making the right choice
Choosing the right international school in France for your child involves evaluating your family’s needs, educational philosophies and future goals. By considering factors like location, curriculum, languages, qualifications and financial aid options, you can ensure that your child receives a quality education that aligns with their unique needs and aspirations.
For more information and resources, explore associations like the British Council, Council of International Schools (CoIS), European Council of International Schools (ECIS), and other accredited bodies, as well as government education websites.
