préscolaire (Preschool/Nursery School):
- Available from age 2 to 6 years.
- Focus on socialization, language development, motor skills, and creative expression.
- Not mandatory, but widely attended.
- Includes maternelles (nurseries for children aged 3-6) and écoles maternelles (preschools for children aged 3-5).
École Élémentaire (Primary School):
- Mandatory schooling begins at age 6.
- Five-year program covering core subjects such as French language, mathematics, history, geography, science, and physical education.
- The first three years, called the cycle des apprentissages fondamentaux (cycle of fundamental learning), emphasize basic skills and learning.
- The last two years, known as the cycle de consolidation (consolidation cycle), deepen understanding and prepare students for secondary school.
Collège (Secondary School):
- Four-year program beginning at age 11.
- Subjects include French language and literature, mathematics, science, history and geography, and modern foreign languages.
- Students can also choose electives and participate in extracurricular activities.
Lycée (High School):
- Three-year program students can enter at age 15 (after collège) or 18 (after seconde).
- Specializations include general education, technological education, or vocational education.
- Students focus on in-depth study of chosen subjects and prepare for higher education or the job market.
Diplomas and Exams:
- Throughout their education, students take national assessments and exams, including the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB) at the end of collège and the Baccalauréat (Bac) at the end of lycée.
- The Bac is particularly important, as it determines university entrance and can influence job opportunities.
School Calendar:
- The French school year runs from early September to late June, divided into three terms.
- Vacations include the Toussaint break in November, Christmas holidays in December, winter break in February, and spring break in April, plus other public holidays.
Higher Education:
- After completing lycée, students can pursue higher education at universities, grandes écoles (elite specialized institutions), or other post-secondary institutions.
The French education system aims to provide a well-rounded education that combines academic knowledge, critical thinking, and personal development to prepare students for further studies, careers, and active participation in society.