The École Maternelle, or nursery school in France is the first official stage of this country’s education system. This stage is designed for children between the ages of 3 and 6. Considered the foundation of formal education in France, it corresponds to kindergarten and pre-primary levels in many other countries, such as Iran. This stage plays a crucial role in preparing young children for elementary school, both academically and socially.
Objectives of École Maternelle in France
- To develop children’s social skills, such as teamwork, communication, and cooperation
- To foster an early love of learning through play, creative activities, and art
- Introducing children to the fundamentals of reading, writing, and counting in a fun and age-appropriate manner
Structure of École Maternelle
The French nursery education is divided into three key levels:
Level | Age group | Description |
Petite Section (PS) | 3 to 4 years old | The entry-level class, where children are introduced to group settings |
Moyenne section (MS) | 4 to 5 years old | A transitional stage that builds on early learning through structured activities |
Grande Section (GS) | 5 to 6 years old | The final stage that directly prepares children for primary school |
How to enroll in a nursery school in France?
In France, nursery school registration is easy and available to all residents. Most families take advantage of this free educational opportunity. To register your child:
- Visit the Mairie (town hall) in your area of residence
- Submit essential paperwork, including your child’s birth certificate, residency proof, and immunization history.
- After registration, your child will be placed in a nearby nursery school based on your home address.
Why does nursery school in France matter?
Nursery school holds a special place in the French education system. It is not considered merely childcare but rather an essential part of early learning. The focus goes beyond teaching letters and numbers; it fosters curiosity, independence, and a love for learning from a young age. The program’s structure, which blends educational activities with creativity and social interaction, allows children to develop a wide range of cognitive, emotional, and social skills. As a result, children leave this stage with the foundational tools needed for success in primary school and beyond.

In addition to its educational role, nursery school in France serves as an important social foundation. It provides equal access to high-quality early education, regardless of the family’s income level, since it is free and state-funded. For many immigrants or newly arrived families, this stage also supports integration by immersing children in the French language and culture early on. With professional staff and a curriculum guided by the French Ministry of Education, the nursery school offers a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment that supports each child’s unique developmental needs.
How Uni-zen can help?
Navigating the French education system can feel overwhelming, whether you are looking for a nursery school in France or aiming to apply to a university. That is where Uni-zen comes in. We offer personalized guidance at every stage of your educational journey in France, from early childhood programs like École Maternelle to higher education. Whether new to the country or planning, our team ensures you are matched with the right institutions that meet your academic goals and personal needs.
In addition to school placement, Uni-zen also helps you find the right French language courses, whether you prefer general classes or more intensive private instruction. We collaborate with reputable language centers and tutors across France.
Contact us!
Ready to start? You can email us directly at contact@uni-zen.com or visit our contact page to get in touch. Our deep understanding of the French education structure, years of experience, and a network of verified partners you can trust set us apart. Let Uni-zen simplify the process and help you make informed decisions for yourself or your family.