Expert Q&A: What are the key differences between the French and UK education systems?

Gina Bianchi on moving to a new school in France

What are the key differences between the French and UK education systems?

The French and UK education systems differ significantly in structure, philosophy, and approach to learning. One notable distinction is the age at which compulsory education begins in France, it start the year children tum three, whereas in the UK, it begins the year they turn five.

In France, the primary and secondary education system is divided into four distinct phases: Maternelle (ages 3-5k Elémentaire ages 6-10); Collège (ages 11-15) and Lycre lages 15-18). At the end of Lycée, most students graduate with the Baccalauréat, a rigorous national diploma. However, alternative options such as apprenticeships and specialised vocational pathways are also available. The curriculum in France is centralised and uniform, dictated by the Ministry of National Education. There is an emphasis on academic rigour, rote learning and traditional disciplines (maths, French, philosophy), with grading on a 20-point scale. Many would argue that there is less focus on critical thinking, creativity. and skills-based learning. Programmes related to student well-being and pastoral care are just beginning to take root in the French public school system but are not as developed as those in the UK, Finally, school days in France are typically longer, running from 8:30 am to 4:30pm, often with a two-hour lunch break in some schools.

The academic year is divided into fewer school weeks- 36 per year and includes longer holidays. Wednesday afternoons are often free or dedicated to extracurricular activities, providing students. with opportunities to engage in sports, arts or other interests outside the classroom.

Are there bilingual or international schools available, and how do they differ from traditional French schools?

There are many options available to families looking for a school outside of the public education system, Two useful phrases to know in France are sous contrat and hors contrat: sous contrat means that a school is under contract with the French state, receiving government funding and adhering to the national curriculum, while hors contrat refers to private schools operating independently, without state funding, and with the freedom to set their own curriculum.

Here at ICS Côte d’Azur, we are an hors contrat, bilingual, international school, offering the IB Primary Years Programme in French and English. We welcome both local and international families who are looking for a nurturing, globally minded educational environment that fosters. academic excellence, cultural diversity and the development of lifelong learners.

Our bilingual programme ensures that, upon completing their primary years, students have the flexibility to transition seamlessly into the French education system, the UK system, or any other international curricula.

How do schools support children who are not fluent in French?

At our school, students who join in the Early Years are immediately immersed in both languages. The classroom teachers and assistants adapt the learning to each child’s individual needs, supported by our small class sizes, which allow for personalised attention and a nurturing environment. Students who join us after the age of seven enter our FLE programme (Français Langue Etrangère), where they work in small groups for several hours each week with a specialist teacher, focusing on building vocabulary, mastering grammar rules and developing confidence in their French language skills.

In the French public system, students are often enrolled in a dedicated language support programme called UPEZA Gimité pédagogique pour élèves
allophones arrivants), where they receive specialised instruction to develop their French language skills and integrate into the standard curriculum.

Depending on the region and available resources, students may need to attend a different school for a set number of hours each week, or the specialist teacher may visit their school. The approach varies based on the number of students requiring support and the department’s budget. It is highly recommended to research the specific department you are moving to in order to understand the available options. Expat forums on social media can be a great resource for asking questions and gathering information. Before making a final decision, you should always visit the school and ask to speak to the director. This way, you can get a firsthand feel for the school environment, ask specific questions, and ensure it meets your family’s needs.