FAQ – Sainte Victoire International School

What makes SVIS’s educational approach unique?

Sainte Victoire International School offers a unique student-centered pedagogy where academic achievement and personal development are closely linked. From primary school through high school, each child receives individualized support in a nurturing and stimulating environment. The school encourages curiosity, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration through active learning methods that promote independence and engagement.

Which languages are used for instruction at SVIS?

SVIS provides a bilingual education, with classes taught evenly in French and English throughout the year. From Year 3 (Grade 2 in the US / CE1 in France) onwards, students may also choose a third language such as Spanish, German, Italian or Portuguese, which they can continue studying until Year 13 (Grade 12 in the US / Terminale in France).

What curricula are taught?

In primary and middle school, students follow a combined curriculum based on the French national programme and the Cambridge Curriculum, ensuring a strong foundation in both French and English. In Years 10 and 11 (Grades 9 and 10 in the US / 3e and 2nde in France), students follow the IGCSE programme. They then continue in Years 12 and 13 (Grades 11 and 12 in the US / Première and Terminale in France) with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).

What is the average number of students per class?

Classes are limited to a maximum of 20 students at all levels (primary, middle and high school) allowing for individualised support, active participation in lessons, and close relationships between teachers and students.

What qualifications do students work toward in middle and high school?

SVIS students prepare for the IGCSE in Years 10 and 11 (Grades 9 and 10 in the US / 3e and 2nde in France), followed by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Years 12 and 13 (Grades 11 and 12 in the US / Première and Terminale in France). Both diplomas are internationally recognised and open the doors to top universities in France and around the world.

Can students with IGCSE and IB qualifications apply to French higher education institutions?

Both the IGCSE and the International Baccalaureate (IB) are recognised by French higher education institutions. SVIS students holding the IB diploma can apply to French universities and grandes écoles through Parcoursup, the national admissions platform. These diplomas are accepted by a wide range of institutions, including leading business schools (such as ESSEC, EDHEC, KEDGE) and engineering schools (such as INSA, EPITA, and more).

How does the school promote student well-being and personal development?

At SVIS, student wellbeing and development are at the heart of our educational approach. Each child benefits from individualised support tailored to their pace and needs, within a nurturing and stimulating environment. The school’s exceptional natural surroundings, along with the variety of activities offered, play a key role in fostering personal growth and balance throughout each student’s academic journey.

How is sport integrated into the school day?

Sport is an essential part of life at SVIS. All students, from primary to high school, take part in one hour of physical activity every day. A wide range of disciplines is offered, including tennis, golf, football, yoga, horse riding and fencing. The school also features a dedicated Golf Academy and Tennis School, allowing students to train beyond regular class hours.

Are arts and cultural activities part of the curriculum?

All students take part in music, visual arts and theatre workshops as part of their weekly timetable. These are complemented by cultural outings and creative projects that nurture artistic sensitivity, curiosity and creativity.

What extracurricular activities are available outside the classroom?

SVIS offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities open to all students. Clubs, workshops and group projects help develop creativity, leadership and teamwork. Options include journalism, chess, coding, astronomy, yearbook, football, Model United Nations (MUN), and more.

Do students wear a school uniform?

Yes. SVIS students are required to wear a school uniform. Several outfit options are available to suit all seasons, and are designed for comfort, practicality and ease of movement.

From what age is boarding available at SVIS?

The boarding house is open to students from middle school onwards (starting in Year 7 / Grade 6 in the US / 6e in France) through to the end of high school. It welcomes both French and international students in a safe, supportive environment located just next to the school’s main entrance.

Can students go home on weekends?

Yes. Families can choose between two options: a 5-day boarding plan (Monday to Friday) or a 7-day plan that includes weekends, depending on what best suits their needs.

What activities are available for boarders in the evenings and on weekends?

SVIS offers a full programme of evening and weekend activities for boarders, including creative workshops, sports, cultural outings and relaxing social time. Every Saturday, excursions are organised for students staying on campus over the weekend.

How is student safety ensured in the boarding house?

The boarding facilities are located in a dedicated, secure building on campus. Entry is controlled via a digital access code, and the area is monitored 24/7 by a video surveillance system. Teaching staff are present at all times to ensure student safety and well-being.

Can students join SVIS during the school year?

Mid-year enrolment is possible, subject to availability. All applications are reviewed individually and include an interview with school leadership as well as an academic file assessment.

Do you accept students who are new to French or English?

SVIS welcomes students of all nationalities, regardless of their current language level in French or English. To support a smooth transition, students are grouped by proficiency and benefit from targeted language support, including French as a Foreign Language (FLE) classes and English language support. These promote effective progress in both languages.

Does the school offer campus visits or Open House events?

Yes. Families can book a personalised campus visit throughout the year. We also host at least one open house event annually - online of in the school. For more information or to schedule a visit, we encourage families to contact our admissions team directly.

Where is Sainte Victoire International School located?

SVIS is located on the historic Château l’Arc estate, about 20 minutes from the city of Aix-en-Provence. Nestled in exceptional natural surroundings, the school enjoys breathtaking views of the Sainte-Victoire mountain and offers a peaceful, inspiring learning environment.

Is school transportation available?

A private school transport service is available in partnership with an external provider. This door-to-door service ensures safe and reliable travel to and from school, and covers several areas across the Provence region to meet the needs of our families.

Is there a cafeteria at school?

Yes. Students eat lunch in a bright, welcoming dining hall with large windows overlooking a lake and access to a terrace during warmer months. Meals are balanced and freshly prepared, with options available for students with specific dietary requirements.