Nantes

🌍

International Schools

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to International Schools in Nantes, France

Nantes, a vibrant city in western France, is an increasingly popular destination for expatriates due to its high quality of life, cultural richness, and growing international community. For families moving to Nantes, finding the right school for their children is a top priority. Below is a detailed guide to international schools in Nantes, covering the types of schools, curriculum options, tuition costs, admission procedures, language requirements, and other relevant considerations.

1. Types of International Schools in Nantes

Nantes offers a limited but growing selection of international schools catering to expatriate families and French families seeking a global education for their children. These schools typically fall into the following categories:

  • Bilingual Schools: Schools offering instruction in both French and another language (usually English).
  • International Curriculum Schools: Schools that follow internationally recognized curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the British curriculum.
  • French Schools with International Sections: French public or private schools that include international sections for students to study in English or other languages alongside the French curriculum.

2. Curriculum Options

International schools in Nantes offer a variety of curricula to meet the needs of diverse families:

  • International Baccalaureate (IB): A globally recognized program that emphasizes critical thinking, global awareness, and academic rigor. Suitable for families who may relocate again in the future.
  • British Curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels): A structured and widely accepted curriculum, ideal for students planning to attend universities in the UK or Commonwealth countries.
  • French Curriculum with International Sections: These schools follow the French national curriculum but offer additional instruction in English or other languages. Students can prepare for the "Option Internationale du Baccalauréat" (OIB), a bilingual version of the French Baccalaureate.
  • American Curriculum: While less common in Nantes, some schools may offer an American-style education, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

3. Key International Schools in Nantes

Here are some of the main international and bilingual schools in Nantes:

a) Ecole Internationale de Nantes (International School of Nantes)

  • Curriculum: Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP). Plans to expand to the IB Diploma Programme (DP).
  • Languages: Bilingual education in English and French.
  • Age Range: 3 to 15 years old (expanding to older students as the school grows).
  • Tuition Fees: Approximately €6,000–€10,000 per year, depending on the grade level.
  • Admission: Rolling admissions, but early application is recommended due to limited spaces. Requires academic records, a completed application form, and an interview.
  • Website: Ecole Internationale de Nantes

b) Lycée International Nelson Mandela

  • Curriculum: French national curriculum with an international section (English or Spanish). Prepares students for the OIB (Option Internationale du Baccalauréat).
  • Languages: French with significant instruction in English or Spanish.
  • Age Range: Secondary school students (11 to 18 years old).
  • Tuition Fees: Free, as it is a public school.
  • Admission: Competitive; students must pass an entrance exam and demonstrate proficiency in the chosen language (English or Spanish).
  • Website: Lycée Nelson Mandela

c) Eurêka School

  • Curriculum: Bilingual education combining elements of the French curriculum and international teaching methods.
  • Languages: English and French.
  • Age Range: Preschool and primary school (3 to 11 years old).
  • Tuition Fees: Approximately €4,000–€7,000 per year.
  • Admission: Requires an application form, academic records, and an interview with the family.
  • Website: Eurêka School

d) Other Options

While Nantes does not have a large number of international schools compared to Paris or Lyon, some families opt for nearby schools in Rennes or online international schooling options if their needs are not met locally.

4. Tuition Costs

  • Tuition fees for international schools in Nantes range from €4,000 to €10,000 per year, depending on the school, grade level, and curriculum.
  • Additional costs may include:
    • Registration fees (€200–€500).
    • School supplies, uniforms, and extracurricular activities.
    • Transportation and meals (if not included in tuition).

5. Admission Procedures

Admission processes vary by school but generally include the following steps:

  1. Research and Contact: Visit the school’s website or contact the admissions office to request information and schedule a visit.
  2. Application Form: Complete the application form, which may include details about the student’s academic history, language proficiency, and personal interests.
  3. Supporting Documents: Submit required documents, such as:
    • Academic transcripts or report cards.
    • Birth certificate or passport.
    • Proof of residence in Nantes.
  4. Entrance Exam or Interview: Some schools require an entrance exam or interview to assess the student’s academic level and language skills.
  5. Enrollment Confirmation: Once accepted, families must pay a deposit to secure the student’s place.

6. Language Considerations

  • English Proficiency: Most international schools in Nantes require students to have a basic level of English proficiency, especially for older students entering higher grades.
  • French Proficiency: While some schools offer full English instruction, many bilingual schools expect students to learn French as part of their curriculum. This is particularly important for families planning to stay in France long-term.
  • Language Support: Many schools provide language support programs (e.g., English as a Second Language or French as a Foreign Language) to help non-native speakers adapt.

7. Local Cultural and Logistical Factors

  • School Calendar: The French school year typically runs from early September to late June, with breaks in October, December, February, and April. International schools in Nantes generally follow a similar calendar.
  • Transportation: Nantes has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and bicycles. Many schools are accessible via public transport, but some families may prefer to drive or use school bus services (if available).
  • Cultural Integration: Enrolling children in a bilingual or international school can ease their transition into French culture while maintaining ties to their home country’s education system. Schools often organize cultural events and activities to help students and families integrate into the local community.
  • Waiting Lists: Due to the limited number of international schools in Nantes, spaces can fill up quickly. It is advisable to start the application process as early as possible.

8. Tips for Families Moving to Nantes

  • Visit Schools in Person: If possible, schedule a visit to tour the school facilities, meet teachers, and observe classes.
  • Consider Proximity: Choose a school that is conveniently located near your home or workplace to minimize commute times.
  • Plan for Language Learning: Encourage your child to start learning French before moving to Nantes to ease their transition.
  • Engage with the Community: Join local expatriate groups or parent associations to connect with other families and gain insights into life in Nantes.

Conclusion

Nantes offers a small but diverse selection of international schools, making it possible for expatriate families to find quality education options tailored to their needs. By understanding the available curricula, admission procedures, and language requirements, families can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition for their children. Early planning and proactive communication with schools are key to securing a place in the right institution.