International Bilingual Primary School in Aix-en-Provence
At Sainte Victoire International School, the Primary section offers a nurturing and stimulating learning environment where children aged 6 to 11 can grow with confidence and thrive both academically and personally. Teaching is fully bilingual and personalised from the first year (1st Grade / Year 2) with small class sizes of no more than 20 students. Our integrated curriculum blends the strengths of the English (Cambridge) and French (Éducation Nationale) systems to provide a balanced programme that fosters curiosity, global awareness, and strong academic foundations for the years ahead.
A comprehensive bilingual Programme inspired by two systems
SVIS's primary curriculum has been designed to offer the best possible education by merging the strengths of both French and English educational systems.
A balanced and rigorous educational approach
At SVIS, our Primary curriculum combines the National Curriculum for England (Cambridge) and the French national programme, offering a rich, structured learning experience for children aged 6 to 11 in a multicultural setting.
From Year 2 to Year 6 (Grades 1 to 5 in the US), teaching is fully bilingual, with subjects divided between English and French. The Cambridge curriculum complements the French programme with English-taught subjects such as languages, mathematics, and social studies. Continuous assessment tracks each student’s progress and ensures personalised academic support.
Bilingual instruction in English and French across the Primary years
Bilingualism is central to our educational approach. From their first year, students experience balanced immersion in both languages, with classes split evenly between English and French. They might study mathematics in English in the morning, then science or physical education in French in the afternoon.
This consistent immersion develops strong written and spoken skills in both languages across varied contexts. All subjects are taught by experienced native-speaking teachers in English and French.
Ability-based groups and language options to support every learner
Language classes are organised in ability-based groups to match each student's proficiency, particularly in French and English. Whether a child has no prior English or limited French, dedicated support ensures smooth integration, including French as a Foreign Language (FLE) courses and DELF exam preparation. These groups allow every student to progress at their own pace with confidence.
Language learning also goes beyond French and English. From Year 3 (Grade 2 in the US, CE1 in France), students can add a third language such as Spanish, German, Italian or Portuguese and continue studying it through secondary school.
A unique and supportive learning experience
Small class sizes and individualised support
At SVIS, each student benefits from close individual support, made possible by our small class sizes. With no more than 20 students per class, and often fewer depending on the year group, teachers are able to adapt their teaching strategies to meet individual needs, helping each child to progress at their own pace and reach their full potential.
This structure fosters strong relationships between students and teachers, while encouraging a collaborative and supportive classroom environment. Every child is listened to, encouraged to speak, and supported in their academic and personal growth. This individual attention contributes not only to academic achievement, but also to confidence and personal development.
Experiential learning and life skills development
At SVIS, education goes beyond academic knowledge. We focus on how students learn and the meaning they find in their studies, aiming to spark curiosity, encourage discovery, and make learning meaningful. Our approach is based on experiential learning: students manipulate, experiment, observe, and apply their knowledge in real-life situations.
Subjects are explored through investigation, going outdoors, making hypotheses, conducting experiments, and debating results. This active learning fosters deep understanding while developing critical thinking, analytical skills, collaboration, and initiative. This focus on meaningful learning also builds essential life skills that support students throughout their school journey at SVIS.
‘’ Superb facilities and excellent supervision for learning in an international and athletic environment! ’’
Sports and Arts at SVIS
Primary students at SVIS enjoy one hour of sport each day, taught in either English or French depending on the schedule and instructor. This daily routine integrates physical activity into the school day and supports each child’s wellbeing and balance.
The school offers a wide selection of sports disciplines suited to all profiles: football, rugby, fencing, basketball, baseball, tennis, table tennis, yoga, golf, horseback riding, and fitness.
In 2025, SVIS launched its own Tennis School and Golf Academy, expanding access to both activities. These disciplines, already part of the weekly timetable, can now be practised more regularly through group or individual lessons offered on campus on Wednesday afternoons or after school.
Beyond sport, music and the arts also play an important role in the weekly schedule. These classes help foster creativity and personal expression from an early age.
Why Choose SVIS Bilingual Primary School?
SVIS primary school offers a rigorous yet nurturing learning environment suited to French and international families seeking recognized, quality bilingual education for their children. Key strengths regularly recognised by our community include:
- A balanced bilingual programme in French and English from Year 2 (Grade 1 in the US, CP in France)
- Small class sizes for individualized support
- A student-centred approach that fosters discovery and experimentation
- Adapted programs for non-French-speaking students
- Modern facilities in a stunning natural setting
- Proximity to major cities such as Aix-en-Provence, Nice and Marseille
- One hour of daily sports and a wide range of physical activities
- A multicultural community and welcoming learning environment
- Continuity in learning from Primary School to Middle School
Through its innovative educational approach, Sainte Victoire International School offers a modern and enriching learning experience tailored to each student. Children build knowledge through experience and develop key skills that prepare them for future challenges.
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