For European doctors and healthcare workers settling in France, the children's return to school is a key step in family integration. Knowing how the French educational system works allows for preparation with peace of mind.
Age and Compulsory Schooling
In France, schooling is compulsory from ages 3 to 16. Children can attend nursery school from age 3, then enter primary school, middle school, and finally high school. After 16 years old, continuing education is encouraged but no longer mandatory.
Types of Institutions
Families can choose between:
- Public schools: free, accessible to everyone, with standardized teaching.
- Private schools under contract: fee-paying but regulated by the State, often chosen for their oversight or teaching style.
- International schools: suitable for expatriate families, sometimes offering bilingual education or based on a foreign curriculum.
Administrative Procedures
School registration depends on the place of residence. The main steps are:
- Contact the city hall for public school placement.
- Prepare the necessary documents: proof of residence, birth certificate, vaccination records.
- Make an appointment directly with the institution if opting for a private school.
Newly arrived families can also benefit from support measures to ease the school transition.
Supporting Linguistic Integration
Mastery of French is essential for academic success. For non-French-speaking children, some schools offer specific reception classes. Meanwhile, Euromotion recommends parents follow tailored French courses to strengthen family and professional integration.
Preparing for the School Year with Peace of Mind
Beyond school, the back-to-school period also involves organizing daily life: transportation, housing, extracurricular activities. Anticipating these aspects allows families to settle in a stable and reassuring environment.
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