For families moving to France, finding the right school is one of their most important decisions. While the French education system is well-respected, many expat families seek continuity through a British education. Fortunately, France is home to several highly regarded British schools that follow the English national curriculum while embracing an international outlook. These schools are ideal for bilingual students and international families wanting to give their children a high-quality, globally recognised education.
British School of Paris – Saint-Germain-en-Laye
Located on the banks of the Seine in a leafy suburb just west of the capital, the British School of Paris (BSP) is one of the longest-established British international schools in France. Catering to pupils aged 3 to 18, BSP delivers the UK curriculum across primary, secondary, and sixth form levels.
The school is known for its academic achievement, with students consistently performing well in GCSE exams and A Levels. The strong pastoral system ensures that students’ wellbeing is a top priority, and the interactive whiteboards, digital tablets, and well-equipped science laboratories reflect the school’s commitment to modern, effective learning.
The BSP also values extracurricular activities, offering everything from drama and debating to sports and music. Its location, just a short commute from the heart of Paris, makes it a popular choice for expat and diplomatic families.
Mougins British International School – French Riviera
Previously known as Mougins School, the Mougins British International School is nestled in the heart of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, one of Europe’s most prominent technology parks. The school offers a British curriculum to students from early years through senior school, offering a well-rounded programme that focuses on each student’s full potential.
Set in a beautiful campus with a synthetic football pitch, modern classrooms, and outdoor terrace spaces for learning and recreation, Mougins excels in combining international education with a deep understanding of the needs of bilingual students.
The school fosters a holistic approach to learning, encouraging pupils to develop academically, socially, and emotionally. It supports various languages and nationalities, preparing students for universities around the world, including McGill University, Oxbridge, and top European institutions.
International School of Nice
In the south of France, the International School of Nice (ISN) offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) alongside the international primary curriculum, preparing young people to become confident global citizens. It’s particularly well-suited to international students and families who move between countries regularly.
ISN welcomes students from over 40 nationalities and provides a nurturing environment with an emphasis on inclusivity, educational support, and special educational needs. The school encourages a deeper experience of the world through extracurricular activities, service projects, and leadership opportunities.
ISN is known for its small class sizes and quality education, making it a popular choice for families looking for an internationally minded school that still follows a structured and rigorous academic path.
Bordeaux International School
Though smaller than others, Bordeaux International School stands out for its dual-language approach. With instruction in English and French, it’s one of the few truly bilingual schools in the country. From reception classes to secondary education, the school integrates the British education system and the French national curriculum, preparing students to succeed.
This private school supports a multicultural environment and prides itself on helping children develop academic and social skills, allowing each to explore their own talents while appreciating the gifts of others.
The setting in Bordeaux, a vibrant and historic city, perfectly balances cultural immersion and global perspectives.
Collège and Lycée International de Ferney-Voltaire
Located near the Swiss border and popular with Geneva professionals, this co-educational day school is a public French institution offering a British section. It provides access to a bilingual education within the French education system, which is an attractive option for families wanting their children to remain in state schools while retaining English language instruction.
Students here can complete level examinations and, depending on their track, work toward the International Baccalaureate diploma or French baccalauréat with bilingual options. The school has built a reputation for being a high-achieving school, combining the rigour of French academic standards with the adaptability of the British curriculum.
Marymount International School – Paris
Marymount International School in Neuilly-sur-Seine is one of the oldest international schools in France. It was originally established by the religious schools network of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary. It caters to pupils aged 2 to 14, from early years to the end of junior school.
Although rooted in Catholic tradition, it welcomes families of all faiths and offers a comprehensive educational programme following the English national curriculum, enhanced by global learning initiatives. The school’s peaceful setting and focus on educational support, foreign languages, and social development make it ideal for younger children adjusting to life abroad.
British Section of the Lycée International – Saint-Germain-en-Laye
This renowned school blends the French school system with English curriculum studies, offering a bilingual experience that prepares students for level exams and qualifications recognised both in France and the UK. The British Section has existed for over 60 years and provides an enriched curriculum in English, while the main subjects are taught through the French system.
Students have access to excellent facilities, including sports courts, recreational areas, and artistic studios. The school also celebrates traditions and commemorations, such as World War memorial events, reinforcing the importance of cultural and historical understanding.
It’s a strong option for families who want their children to benefit from both the French and British systems while preparing for first-choice universities worldwide.
Choosing the Right British School in France
With so many options available, choosing the right type of school depends on your child’s needs, your long-term plans, and whether you value a strictly British education, a bilingual school, or an international approach.
Here are a few key considerations:
- Curriculum: If you want your child to transition smoothly back to their home country, a school offering the British curriculum with clear key stages of learning will be most appropriate.
- Language: Schools offering both English and French instruction are ideal for families wishing to raise bilingual students.
- Flexibility: Schools that accommodate international students often have flexible entry points, rolling admissions, and experience in helping new pupils settle.
- Facilities: Look for features such as sports facilities, arts programmes, modern technology, and learning support options.
- Values: Many families appreciate schools with a holistic approach, developing academic success, emotional intelligence, and personal growth.
Attending a local French school
Although these British schools are undoubtedly excellent, my children attend a local French school. When we first moved to France, my son was just four years old and didn’t speak a word of French. Now, at ten, he’s fully fluent, well-settled, and has a lovely group of French friends. He’s integrated incredibly well into both school and community life. My daughter, born in France, has only heard English at home but started attending school two days a week from age two and transitioned to full-time from three. Now, at nearly 4 years old, she’s happy, settled, and her French is coming along beautifully. It’s been a positive experience watching them thrive in the French education system.