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SCHOOLS

Blue pullover with grey trousers to become France’s school fashion

If the French government has its way, children could soon be going to school in uniform blue pullovers and grey trousers as part of President Emmanuel Macron's campaign to make education more equal and orderly.

Published: 20 January 2024 09:30 CET
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and French Minister of Education, Sports, and Olympic Games Amelie Oudea-Castera speak to pupils during a visit to Saint-Exupery College, north west of Paris
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and French Minister of Education, Sports, and Olympic Games Amelie Oudea-Castera speak to pupils during a visit to Saint-Exupery College, north west of Paris, on January 12, 2024. New government plans could soon see French children going to school in uniform rather than their own clothes. (Photo by ALAIN JOCARD / POOL / AFP)

A government source on Friday confirmed to AFP the typical uniform that authorities want to see used in a new experiment that Macron announced this week as part of his effort to instil national pride and counter the growing popularity of the far-right.

Uniforms have long been a par of daily life for children in Britain, Japan, much of the United States and other countries. But they have long been resisted in France and other European countries. 

READ ALSO: Why is school uniform controversial in France

About 100 French schools will experiment with the uniform that could then become compulsory  nationwide from 2026.

Macron, who also wants all children to learn France’s national anthem “La Marseillaise”, said that uniforms “erase inequality between families and at the same time create conditions for respect”.

Le Figaro newspaper reported that the government wanted children to wear a white or grey polo shirt, blue pullover and grey trousers. This was confirmed to AFP by a government source.

Local authorities will, with some conditions, be able to choose their own uniforms, but the government has proposed its colours.

READ ALSO: PODCAST: Why French schools don’t have uniforms and rural France turns to the power of the sun

According to Le Figaro, half the cost of each child’s uniform will come from public money. 

A government guide on the proposed uniform, drawn up last month, emphasised the need to create a more equal and respectful atmosphere in schools.

It said the uniform would also be “a way to give value to the image of the school”. 

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SCHOOLS

7 things to know about the American School in Paris

It's one of the best-known international schools in Paris so here's a look at what the American School in Paris offers - from the curriculum and extra activities to its fee structure and admissions policies.

Published: 23 May 2024 16:53 CEST
7 things to know about the American School in Paris

There are several international schools in the Paris area and one of the best known is the American School of Paris (ASP) – not to be confused with the similarly named American University of Paris (or the American Library in Paris or the American Church in Paris, if it comes to that).

ASP is home to around 800 students, with an average of 18 students per class. It offers grades K3 (pre-school, aged 3) to upper school (high school, grade 12).

The school is located slightly outside of the city to the west, in Saint-Cloud, but there is a private bus service available with fixed routes covering some of the Paris suburbs and the 7th, 8th and 16th arrondissements. 

In terms of the academic calendar, the year is similar to the French school year though seasonal breaks (autumn and spring) are shorter, making it possible to have a longer summer vacation.

READ ALSO: What kind of school in France is best for my kids?

What’s the curriculum?

ASP says on its website that it “not only offers an American high school diploma, but also an IB bilingual diploma, AP classes, a myriad of electives and international opportunities, American-style athletics, hands-on STEM classes, [and] outdoor learning.”

The coursework is listed for each age level HERE, and secondary school parents can consult the detailed curriculum themselves HERE.

While English is the main language of instruction, students receive French courses at all age levels.

Students usually aim to take the American high school diploma, and have the option to take the international baccalaureat. They are not routinely prepared for the French baccalaureat (le bac).

What are the tuition fees?

The tuition fees depend on age.

Here are the fees for the 2024-2025 school year;

  • €21,270 per year for K3 (pre-school, age 3)
  • €28,650 for K4 (pre-school, age 4)
  • €34,020 for K5-Grade 5 (Elementary school)
  • €39,235 for Grades 6-8 (Middle School)
  • €39,910 for Upper secondary (high school)

You must also apply to enrol your child, and the application fee is a non-refundable €1,450. There are additional fees depending on your child’s age and situation, including the bus fee, building upkeep (capital assessment) fee, security fee and learning support fee. 

Financial assistance is only available to current ASP families who need “temporary tuition and fee support.”

READ MORE: Just how much do private schools in France cost?

Does my kid need to be American?

No, the ASP accepts students of all nationalities – around one third of their students are American. They also offer an English as an Additional Language Program.

What about extra-curriculars?

There are several different extra-curricular activities available, from art to clubs and athletics. 

High school aged kids can play different sports at junior varsity and varsity levels, competing against other international schools in Europe. More info here.

How do I apply?

You apply online here. The school doesn’t practice academic selection (ie an entrance exam) but is often over-subscribed so acceptance is not automatic.

According to their website, the American School of Paris accepts applications on a rolling basis, but most grades have wait lists. Before applying, they recommend contacting the Admissions Office. 

You can also schedule a virtual or in-person tour.

What if my child has special needs?

ASP has a learning support programme for children with mild to moderate learning differences.

Students enrolled in the support programme get an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP).

There are other international schools. How do I choose?

There are pros and cons to each option. You might consider the school’s location, how much French language learning it involves (as well as whether or not your child will receive any French and American qualifications, such as the BAC and US high school diploma), cost, ages of instruction, and more.

There are several Facebook groups, including ‘American Expats in Paris’ and ‘English-Speaking Mums/Moms living in Paris’ to ask questions of families in similar situations. 

You might also consider attending the AAWE (Association of American Women in Europe) International School Fair. They put this event on each year in Paris. In 2024, it was held in February at the American Church in Paris. More info here.

You can also consult the US Embassy’s school list, which outlines the educational options for Americans in France. Each listing offers a description of the school. 

There are also great state schools in France that offer bilingual education. For example, you might consider the international sections in French secondary schools.

These sections help to facilitate the integration of foreign students into the French school system.

READ MORE: ‘Strict but a holistic education’: How the French public school system really works

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