Le système éducatif français 👩‍🎓👨‍🎓

Summary

In this video, the host from 'Français avec Pierre' offers an in-depth overview of the French education system, covering everything from daycare and primary school to higher education. He explains the structure of both public and private schools, the stages of schooling, and the importance of exams like the Brevet and Baccalauréat. The video also touches on the language learning process, scholarships, and various educational paths, including universities and specialized schools. The host also introduces a new French course, offering a special launch discount. The content is educational, informative, and aimed at students and those interested in French culture and education.

Takeaways

• 😀 The French education system can be complex, but it can be understood step by step, starting with younger children and progressing to higher education.
• 😀 Children in France can start daycare, called 'la crèche', from a few months old, although this is not technically part of the formal education system.
• 😀 The primary school ('primaire') in France starts at age 3 and goes until around age 10, consisting of two sections: 'l’école maternelle' (preschool) and 'l’école élémentaire' (elementary school).
• 😀 Secondary education ('secondaire') begins around age 10 and is divided into 'le collège' (middle school) and 'le lycée' (high school).
• 😀 At the end of 'le collège', students take an exam called 'le Brevet des collèges', though passing it is not a requirement to proceed to 'le lycée'.
• 😀 After high school ('lycée'), students take an important exam called 'le Baccalauréat' (or 'le Bac'), which is necessary to continue with advanced studies.
• 😀 The French education system emphasizes the learning of foreign languages, starting with English from an early age and offering the option to learn a second language (typically Spanish or German) in middle school.
• 😀 Public schools in France are free, and secularism is a key value, meaning religious and political symbols are not allowed in schools.
• 😀 In addition to public universities ('l’université'), France has private institutions and prestigious schools such as 'les Grandes Écoles' that offer specialized programs in fields like engineering, business, and humanities.
• 😀 Advanced learning in France includes public universities, where students can pursue a Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate (Ph.D.), as well as more practical education through shorter cycles like vocational or health-related programs.
• 😀 There are many scholarships and grants available for both French and international students, making education more accessible for those in need.
• 😀 The French education system is seen as having historically been one of the best in the world, though its accessibility has increased in recent years, leading to a slight decline in overall academic rigor.

Q & A

What is the purpose of this video?

The video aims to explain the French education system, from daycare through advanced learning, as well as provide information about a new course available on the 'Français avec Pierre' platform.

What is 'la crèche' and does it form part of the formal education system in France?

'La crèche' is a daycare where children as young as a few months old are cared for. It is not considered part of the formal education system in France.

At what age does formal schooling in France begin?

Formal schooling begins at age 3 with 'l’école maternelle,' which is part of the 'primaire' (primary education).

What are the two main parts of 'primaire' education?

'Primaire' education is divided into 'l’école maternelle' (preschool) for younger children and 'l’école élémentaire' (elementary school) for older children.

What are the stages of 'l’école élémentaire' in France?

'L’école élémentaire' includes five years: CP (preparatory course), CE1 (elementary course 1), CE2, CM1 (middle course 1), and CM2.

What is 'le Brevet des collèges' and when is it taken?

'Le Brevet des collèges' is an exam taken at the end of 'le collège' (secondary school), typically around age 14, marking the end of the first stage of secondary education.

What are the key features of 'le lycée' in the French education system?

'Le lycée' is the final stage of secondary education in France, divided into three years: 'seconde,' 'première,' and 'terminale.' The major exam taken at the end of 'terminale' is the 'Baccalauréat' (commonly called 'le Bac').

What is the significance of the 'Baccalauréat' (Bac) exam?

The 'Baccalauréat' is a crucial exam taken at the end of 'le lycée,' and passing it is required to pursue higher education in France. A passing grade is 10 out of 20.

How has the foreign language learning system changed in France over time?

Historically, French students started learning foreign languages in junior high. Now, children start learning English in 'primaire' (primary school), and they choose a second language in 'cinquième' (around age 12), often Spanish or German.

What distinguishes private and public schools in France?

Public schools in France are free and secular, meaning there is no religious or political symbolism allowed in school settings. Private schools, which may receive government assistance, often have more flexibility in their educational offerings.