Understanding the French Curriculum

Introduction

The French National Curriculum (Éducation Nationale) is known for its academic rigour, intellectual depth, and structured progression across all school levels.

We understand the high expectations and distinct pedagogical style of this system, particularly as it applies to students enrolled in French international schools across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.

Our tutoring service is carefully designed to complement, reinforce, and guide students through each cycle of the French curriculum, from École Élémentaire to Lycée, including Brevet and Baccalauréat preparation.

Curriculum Overview:
Structure & Philosophy

The French curriculum follows a cycle-based structure focused on progressive mastery of foundational knowledge (les fondamentaux),

critical thinking, and intellectual rigour
. Its hallmark is a balance of core disciplines and humanist values.

Main Cycles:

  • Cycle 1: Maternelle (PS, MS, GS) – Early learning
  • Cycle 2: CP, CE1, CE2 – Basic learning
  • Cycle 3: CM1, CM2, 6e – Consolidation
  • Cycle 4: 5e, 4e, 3e – Deepening knowledge
  • Lycée: 2nde, 1ère, Terminale – Specialisation & Baccalauréat prep

Core Subjects Include:

  • Français (Language & Literature)
  • Mathématiques
  • Sciences (SVT, Physique-Chimie)
  • Histoire-Géographie, EMC
  • Langues Vivantes (LV1, LV2)
  • Philosophie (Terminale)
  • Spécialités (in high school)

How We Support Students in the French Curriculum

Our French system specialists are trained in Éducation Nationale standards and pedagogical expectations.

We work alongside the student’s school curriculum, providing reinforcement, clarification, and academic coaching in French or bilingual instruction.

Maternelle & École Élémentaire (PS–CM2):

  • Phonological awareness, reading readiness, and handwriting (écriture)
  • Mastery of numeracy and early logic in line with CP–CE2 expectations
  • Support with reading (lecture), spelling (orthographe), grammar (grammaire)

Collège (6e–3e):

  • Regular coaching in Français, Maths, Sciences, LV1/LV2, and Histoire-Géographie
  • Structured support for Brevet des Collèges
  • Written expression, literary analysis, and exam techniques

Lycée (2nde–Terminale)

  • Intensive tutoring in Spécialités (Maths, SES, SVT, HGGSP, Humanités)
  • Preparation for Baccalauréat Général / Technologique
  • Essay writing (dissertation), structured argumentation, commentary (commentaire composé)
  • Coaching in Philosophie, oral exams, and Grand Oral
Private tutoring for Maternelle, Primaire, Collège & Lycée

Specialised Services for
French Curriculum Students

Our tutoring is always aligned with school curricula, but it’s delivered in a flexible, human-centred way that prioritises confidence, consistency, and academic wellbeing.

  • Homework Support & Academic Coaching
  • Baccalauréat Preparation (ES, S, L or Spécialités)
  • Brevet Practice Exams & Writing Workshops
  • Oral Exam Preparation (Épreuves Orales, Grand Oral)
  • University/Parcoursup Coaching for French or bilingual institutions
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Our Academic Approach

We tailor our teaching methods to match the rigour and formalism of the French system while offering:

  • Clear breakdowns of dense academic texts
  • Structured revision tools and fiche synthèse
  • Weekly reporting and academic tracking for both students and parents
  • Emotional support and mentorship to help students thrive under pressure