Guide to French School Education
6. Nursery School in France - Ecole Maternelle
6.1. Class Structure
Since 2019 attendance at nursery school has become obligatory from the age of 3 years.
There is almost comprehensive free State provision throughout the country, and the vast majority of children 3 years upwards attend.
Attendance from 2 years of age is possible if places are available.
The basic class structure, with names, is as follows:
| Age | Class |
|---|---|
| 2-4 | Petite Section |
| 4-5 | Moyenne Section |
| 5-6 | Grande Section |
Next: Enrolment
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