Nursery, public or private school: as a newcomer, what options are available to enroll your children in the South of France?
Nursery, public or private school: as a newcomer, what options are available to enroll your children in the South of France? Are you planning to move to France and drawn to the gentle lifestyle of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region? Whether you are an international professional, a foreign talent, or a family seeking a fresh start, this southern region of France offers an exceptional environment in which to live, work, and raise children. Before settling in, it is essential to understand the French school system, especially if you have young children or school‑aged kids. This guide supports you through the first steps of a successful relocation to France, with a focus on childcare and education options in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
- If your children are under 3 years old, you have several options, depending on your needs and schedule. You can enroll them in community facilities such as daycares, temporary child care centers, or early entry kindergartens. Alternatively, you can opt for individual childcare arrangements, such as a childminder, home-based childminder, student babysitter, or au pair.
- If your children are between 3 and 16 years old, school is mandatory in France for this age group. You have the choice to enroll them in a public school (run by the State) or a private school, or to provide their education yourself (after completing the necessary procedures.)
Go to the French national education website: https://www.education.gouv.fr (site in French)
Access the private education directory: https://www.enseignement-prive.info (site in French)
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