French School Reforms Begin in September as Families Weigh Next Steps

The 2025-2026 French school year begins on September 1 with reforms to French and math teaching, extended mobile phone bans in all collèges, physical aptitude tests for sixth-graders, and expanded sexual education and career guidance.

Changes Taking Effect This Autumn

These updates apply directly to the coming term. Schools will adjust lesson plans in core subjects while enforcing stricter device rules across collèges. Sixth-grade students will complete new physical aptitude assessments, and programs in sexual education and career guidance will expand to reach more pupils. The measures arrive at a time when families must decide how to align home routines with the updated school expectations.

Baccalauréat Results Set Baseline

The final 2026 baccalauréat success rate stands at 91.4 percent nationally. The general track reached 95.9 percent, the technological track 90.3 percent, and the vocational track 84.3 percent. These figures provide a clear reference point for students and families evaluating track choices or additional support needs ahead of the next cycle of exams and orientation decisions.

Key Decisions for Families

Parents now face choices about reinforcing French and math skills at home, arranging activities that meet the new physical aptitude requirements, and reviewing the expanded guidance offerings. Local schools will communicate specific schedules and resources in the weeks before September 1. Families can consult official education portals for details on the reforms and how they affect individual students.

The combination of curriculum adjustments and rule changes means households should review school communications promptly to avoid last-minute adjustments. Early planning around device policies and guidance sessions can ease the transition once classes resume.