The French education system is based on principles inspired by the Revolution of 1789, laws passed between 1881 and 1889 and under the Fourth and Fifth Republics as well as the Constitution of October 4, 1958: “the organization of education free and secular compulsory public at all levels is a duty of the State “. It is centralized and managed by the Ministry of National Education.
The public service coexists with private establishments, subject to State control and which can benefit from its aid (in return for a contract signed with the State).
The freedom to organize and provide education is a manifestation of freedom of expression: it is defined by the “Debré law” n ° 59-1557 of December 31, 1959 on freedom of education and relations with private education.
However, the State is the only one authorized to issue diplomas and university degrees: diplomas issued by the private sector have no official value unless they are recognized by the State. The regulation of exams is done nationally.
The principle of free public primary education was established at the end of the 19th century by the law of June 16, 1881 and extended to secondary education by the law of May 31, 1933.
Textbooks are free until the third grade, as well as materials and supplies for collective use. In high schools, textbooks are most often the responsibility of families.
Public education is neutral: philosophical and political neutrality is imposed on teachers and students.
The principle of secularism in religious matters has been the basis of the public education system since the laws of March 28, 1882 and October 30, 1886. The importance of secularism in republican school values was emphasized by the law of December 9, 1905 establishing the secularism of the stateRespect for the beliefs of students and their parents implies: the absence of religious instruction in the programs, secularism of the staff, the prohibition of proselytism.
Since the Jules Ferry law of March 28, 1882, education is compulsory from the age of 3 for all French or foreign children residing in France.
Originally, education was compulsory until the age of 13, then 14 from the law of August 9, 1936.
Since ordinance n ° 59-45 of January 6, 1959, it has been extended until the age of 16. In addition, there is compulsory training for 16 to 18 years old from 2020.
For more info :
https://www.education.gouv.fr/les-grands-principes-du-systeme-educatif-9842
https://www.cia-france.fr/blog/culture-traditions-francaises/le-systeme-educatif-francais/
https://www.ciep.fr/sites/default/files/atoms/files/focus_decouvrir-systeme-educatif-francais.pdf
