Bastille Families Align with National School Reforms Ahead of September Start

The 2025-2026 French school year begins on September 1 with reforms to French and mathematics teaching, updated foreign language curricula, and new civic education programmes. Bastille families will see these national measures implemented through local schools and services that manage daily operations for pupils.

Curriculum and Assessment Changes

Reforms focus on core subjects and pupil development. All sixième pupils will undergo physical aptitude tests covering endurance, strength and speed. Pupils from cinquième will receive four half-day career guidance sessions each year. These steps form part of the adjustments local education services are rolling out.

Phone Policy and Expanded Programmes

Mobile phone use is prohibited during school hours in all collèges under the expanded portable en pause policy, with lycées considering similar steps. The EVARS programme requires expanded sexual education covering consent, emotions and gender identity. Enhanced AI training will also be provided for students and teachers through existing school channels.

Results and Budget Context

The definitive 2026 baccalauréat success rate reached 91.4 percent overall, with 95.9 percent in the general track, 90.3 percent in the technological track and 84.3 percent in the professional track. France's 2026 education budget includes over 3,000 teacher position cuts, which have prompted strikes in several academies. Local services in Bastille will manage the effects of these national decisions on staffing and class organisation.

Practical Steps for Families

The new school year follows summer vacations that started on July 4. Parents can contact their child's school for details on how the reforms and policies will apply locally. Additional support measures such as extended birth leave and the Climate Futures Savings Plan for those under 21 are available through national services that operate alongside local education offices.