Best schools in Provence
Education in Provence
Provence is one of the most enticing places in Europe – the books and films don’t lie, even if the neighbours are maybe not as exclusive or exotic as they once were. However, international schools are few and far between, so you might seriously consider putting your child into the state system, provided you’re happy with the different approach and you intend to learn the rules of boules rather than skittles. There is a small sample of private schools available too.
Choosing a school in Provence
If moving is regularly on the cards, or planned in the future, an international curriculum and approach can make transitioning easier. There are no obvious new independent entrants into this sector (which is slightly puzzling) so the choice for expats still remains small.
The curriculum at these schools leads up to IGCSEs, and either the IB Diploma or A levels. The cultured and relaxed feel of Aix-en-Provence has always appealed to expat Americans and Brits and you’ll find international schools here too — with the added bonus of being able to choose between the French or English curriculum.
Private schools in France tend not to be externally accredited, although they are licensed by the French Ministry of Education and the majority receive some state funding. Most have a mixed international intake and some have a large majority of French students wanting to learn English – so choose with care! The advantages are that class sizes are smaller and the facilities better than normally found in state schools.
There is an increasing number of French state secondary schools that have international sections. If you can get into one of these schools, your child will get an almost free education, alongside French children. They will, however, be immersed in a totally French environment and the education is based on the French national curriculum. This might not be suitable if the student is only attending for a short while before returning to their home country or international schooling elsewhere. Also, the French state schools are regimented and involve total immersion, strict French routine and regular testing.
Special education needs in Provence
Most children with SEN requirements can be catered for in school; others needing more intervention can secure places in specialist schools for children with SEN. In order to get a place at a specialist school, the (MDPH) Maison Departementale des Personnes Handicapees carry out an evaluation with the result being passed onto the (CDAPH) Commission des Droits et de L’autonomie des Personnes Handicapees. They then create a personalised programme for the child and determine which route to take as there are various options once the level of help is ascertained.
SESSD (Services D’education Speciale et de Soins Domicile) will then categorise the student into the following categories depending on their requirements; CLIS1 (cognitive). CLIS 2 (Auditory) CLIS3 (Visual) CLIS4 Physical.
Pre-schools, kindergarten and nurseries in Provence
It is compulsory for the French to send their children to pre-school from the age of 3 and ideally to their nearest. However, if you want to go to down the state route and outside of your catchment area, you must gain permission from the Marie, as well as the school inspectorate.
