MIDDLE SCHOOL (10 - 11 years

Bordeaux International School has created this unique bilingual programme to provide a measured transition from primary interdisciplinary education to subject-based secondary education. It gives both French and English-speaking pupils a solid foundation for their secondary education, whether they continue at the school or go to a French 'collège'. It is the only school to offer this programme and we constantly receive very positive feedback from pupils and parents.

Although the Middle School programme is usually for 10-11 year-olds, it is sometimes made available to younger or older pupils who would also benefit academically, linguistically and socially from this transitional learning phase.

Language focus
Lessons are delivered in both French and English thus promoting bilingualism. Pupils spend an equal amount of time in both languages, while following the syllabus relevant to their future studies. French-speaking pupils follow the French National Programme while English-speaking pupils follow the English National Curriculum, so the essential aspects of both syllabuses are covered. Spanish is introduced as a third language.

Personal tutor
Tutors play a key role in easing the transition to a new school. The tutor follows the pupil’s progress and achievement, co-ordinates their social integration and pastoral care, and liaises closely with their parents.

Class size and learning approach
Class size is limited to 10 pupils, which allows a high degree of personal attention from the teacher. Pupils are encouraged to exchange ideas with each other, thus nurturing social skills and cooperation within a group, as well as independence and self-confidence. Pupils are often asked to collaborate in small groups to prepare class and school presentations.

School hours
8.30am to 4.15pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
8.30am to 12.30pm on Wednesday

Keeping in touch with parents
As with Secondary School, close contact is maintained with parents. Each pupil has a comprehensive report three times a year detailing progress in school work and general behaviour at school. Pupils also have a liaison book for weekly communication between home and school.

Parents’ evenings are held each term for parents to talk to teachers individually about their child. For those parents living too far away for this to be feasible, we can arrange a conference call.