Lyon Education

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?
In Lyon, most expats send their children to private international schools.
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What are some examples of these schools?
Below are examples of private international schools in Lyon:

  • Cite Scolaire _ Internationale
  • Greenfields - French and English bilingual nursery and primary private school
  • Ombrosa - a private bilingual school for French- and English-speaking pupils, linked to the French education system and open to international pupils. The primary education section of the school is under state control.

For more information on the schools referenced above, or for assistance on finding the right choice for your child, contact Crown Lyon or check out the websites listed below.
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Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?
Yes, there is competition for open spots. It is recommended that you apply as soon as possible once you have decided on a school. It is also good to be prepared and have all school records handy before applying. For further information, most school websites list the documents required for application. For families with more than one child, spaces are harder to come by, but not impossible..
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Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?
Yes, nursery education is available and some international schools have a pre-school program. Also, each Lyon arrondissement (district) has French-speaking daycare centers; lists are available at each Mairie (town hall).
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How are most kids transported to and from school?
The larger international schools, such as Ombros, have their own school buses that service the western areas of Lyon. If your child's school does not provide transport, like many parents, you can drive your children back and forth, or form a carpool with other parents.
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When does the typical school year start and end?
Typically, the school year begins in late August or early September and ends in late June. School holidays are during the last week of October (ten days), Christmas time (two weeks), the end of February (two weeks) and around Easter (two weeks).
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Is there anything else I should know about local schools?
Local schools that depend on government funding are only accessible to families living in the neighborhood where the school is situated. In other words, you can’t enroll a child in a public local school in the 4th district if you live in the 5th district. Places are very limited and there are numerous problems within the system reflected by teacher strikes. Please note that all instruction at local schools is in French.

The City of Lyon devotes a significant budget to the construction and renovation of educational facilities. Nearly 102,000 students, in a full range of fields and academic institutions, make Lyon the second-largest university town in France. Four universities and a number of specialized graduate schools offer a broad spectrum of studies. Higher education in Lyon is recognized around the world for quality and expertise in health, chemicals, engineering, information technology, law and social sciences.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.