The French state education system is extremely highly regarded, both at home and also at an international level. To give a brief overview of the system, it is divided into Nursery schools (Ecole Maternelle), Primary schools (Ecole Primaire) and Secondary schools, starting with College (College) until age 15. At this point, the next step depends on a child's exam results. Top students go to High school (Lycee) to study for the Baccalaureat qualification, others attend Vocational College. Most children in France continue in education beyond age 16. Queries about local schools should be directed to your local town hall (Mairie).

School uniform is not worn in French state schools, so this may seem to represent a saving for expat families, but be aware that parents DO need to buy items like stationery, school bags and (for certain schools) sports equipment. At Lycee level you will be required to buy textbooks as well, although grants are available for those on low income.

As well as state schools, there are also private ones, among them the International schools some expats favour for their children - these offer a bi-lingual education and tend to charge high tuition fees. If you want your child to attend an International school, look for them in your yellow pages or contact ELSA France, a non-profit making association made up of schools offering advanced study in English. The association can be contacted on telephone (0033) 01 45 34 04 11