How to choose a school and housing on the French Riviera for children?

Among parents, it is quite common to first search for educational institutions for their children and then consider housing options. This is due to the fact that property prices in close proximity to high-quality educational establishments are often significantly higher than in more distant areas. According to data presented by Wall-Market, price differences can reach 10-15%. The French Riviera offers a vast number of prestigious international educational institutions that provide outstanding educational programs.

Famous international schools on the French Riviera

If we pay attention to international schools on the French Riviera, we can highlight several of the most well-known institutions:

• International Center of Valbonne (CIV)In Valbonne, the cost of education ranges from 1710 to 2750 euros per year. At this institution, classes are conducted in English, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, and Chinese, catering to children aged 12 to 18 years.
• L’Ecole Bilingue — International School Côte d'Azur — Sophia Antipolis (EBICA)Also located in Valbonne, it offers education in English and French for children aged 2 to 18 years at a cost of 9,300 to 14,000 euros per year.
• NewSchoolIn Cagnes-sur-Mer, children aged 12 to 18 are accepted, with a tuition fee of 9,000 euros.
• The International Bilingual School of Pégomas "Le Pain de Sucre"It is located in Pegom and charges a fee ranging from 4950 to 7950 euros, educating children from 2 to 12 years old.
• The Bilingual Montessori School "Les Colibris"Biote offers an educational program with fees ranging from 5150 to 7800 euros for children aged 2 to 12 years.
• ABC School InternationalThe school located in Nice has tuition fees ranging from 3950 to 7600 euros for children aged 2 to 15 years. It is also worth mentioningThe International Bilingual School of Nice (EIB) "Le Pain d'Epice"In Nice, where prices range from 4740 to 7450 euros for students aged 2 to 12 years.
• The International Bilingual School Cagne/Mer "Le Pain de Sucre"In Cagnes-sur-Mer, a variety of educational programs are offered with fees ranging from 4,770 to 7,290 euros.
• The Fénelon InstituteIn Grasse, they accept children from 2 to 18 years old, with prices ranging from 855 to 6510 euros.
• International School of NiceIn Nice, the tuition cost ranges from 10,662 to 16,584 euros for the age group of 4 to 17 years, taught in English.
• Mougins SchoolIn Mugen, they offer education with prices ranging from 6000 to 16600 euros for children aged 3 to 18 years.

The educational structure in France

In France, compulsory schooling starts at the age of 6 and continues until 16. However, the majority of parents (about 90-95%) send their children toPreschool, which serves as an intermediate stage between kindergarten and primary school and is available for children from the age of 3, as noted by Maria Dichenskova, representingMichaël Zingraf Real Estate — Christie’s.

The educational structure in France is divided into two main levels: first, children spend 3-4 years in preschool.Preschool), and then 5 years in elementary school (Elementary School). After that comes the stage of secondary education, including 4 years in college (College) and 3 years in high school (High schoolUpon completing their studies at the lyceum, students take an exam to obtain their bachelor's degree.Baccalauréat), which allows for further studies at higher educational institutions.

Some high school students choose to continue their education in preparatory classes to apply to prestigious universities.Preparatory Classes for Grandes Écoles, CPGEDue to high competitiveness, such classes are aimed only at students with excellent exam results, adds Maria Dichenskova.

Children can enroll in preschool institutions starting from the age of 2-3, and the desire to pursue higher education can extend secondary education until the age of 18. Some international schools, such asMougins School,EBICAandThe Fénelon InstituteThey offer the opportunity for education throughout the entire period from ages 2-3 to 18, without changing the educational institution. At the same time, other schools are focused on children aged 2 to 12, after which they transition to college.

Foreign families have the opportunity to choose educational institutions based on their area of residence. Parents working in the technology park...Sofia AntipolisThey often prefer schools located in this famous French "Silicon Valley."

Education on the French Riviera

Several significant educational institutions operate on the French Riviera, such as Civ, Ebica, and Les Colibris. In these international schools, instruction is conducted in both English and French, with the language ratio in the educational process being approximately equal at 50% each.

Exceptions include institutions such as the International School of Nice (ISN) and Mougins School, where educational subjects are offered exclusively in English. It has been noted that children who do not speak either French or English can be admitted to these schools.

As I noticedMaria DichenskovaMougins School offers its unique educational model, which emphasizes the British education system, and all classes are conducted in English.

International sections and children's adaptation

At the Civ college and high school of the Valbonne International Center, there are also special international sections where classes are conducted in various languages, including Russian.Elena ChernyshevaThe sales manager notes that many parents are considering the option of enrolling their children in Russian-speaking schools, especially if their children lack skills in English or French.

Nevertheless, practice shows that children quickly adapt and start to understand, and then speak, French or English.

Conclusion

When choosing a place to live on the French Riviera, it is important to consider not only the cost of real estate but also the quality of educational institutions. Research has shown that being located near good schools can significantly increase property values. Therefore, it is common for families to first choose a school and then find a home.

Yes, studying in international schools is not cheap, however, this situation can be seen asan investment in the futureyour children.

The quality of education on the French Riviera

There are many international schools offering quality education in various languages. This lays the foundation for future academic success and career growth. Moreover, most parents who choose international education note that their children quickly adapt to the new language environment, which significantly expands their opportunities.

Municipal Schools vs. Private Schools

It's also important to remember that the level of education in municipal French schools often surpasses that of private institutions. So, even if you are looking for the perfect school, don't hesitate to explore different options.

Key findings

• The choice of school affects the cost of housing.
• International schools are an investment in the future.
• Children quickly adapt to new language environments.
• The level of the municipality can be high.

Ultimately, every parent wants the best for their child. Therefore, when choosing between housing and educational institutions, it is important to focus on the quality of education, which in the long run will provide your child not only with knowledge but also with confidence in their abilities and potential. In this context, the French Riviera offers excellent opportunities for both living and learning. Remember: the right choice of education is the key to your child's successful future.