His announcements to “raise the general level” of education were eagerly awaited, particularly since the publication of an international Pisa ranking that was not very encouraging for France. The Minister of National Education Gabriel Attal unveiled this Tuesday, in a letter first addressed to teachers, a series of measures. These will be detailed at a press conference this afternoon but, already, several significant new features have leaked. Stated objective: “restore standards” and strengthen the teaching of mathematics and French in particular.
In terms of grade repetition, made exceptional in 2014 by a ministerial decree, teachers will now have the “last word”, and not families, to validate grade repetition, he announced. Concerning the baccalaureate, a new mathematics test will be implemented in first class from 2025-2026.
The college is also particularly concerned since the certificate will be essential for direct entry to high school from the 2025 session. “Level groups” will also be established at the college, a subject which is already controversial within the teaching staff.
Finally, primary school will not be forgotten since the school programs will also be overhauled at primary level.