Windfield International School
EN | FR

Collège (Lower Secondary, Ages 11–15)

The Collège stage covers ages 11 to 15 and includes 6e, 5e, 4e, and 3e. It is a crucial step in the French curriculum where students consolidate knowledge, develop independence, and prepare for the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB).

Collège provides a broad, balanced education, combining academic depth with cultural, artistic, and civic development. It serves as the bridge between primary education and the Lycée.

  • 6e (Sixième, age 11–12) → Transition year from primary to secondary.
  • 5e (Cinquième, age 12–13) → Strengthening core knowledge and introducing more complex concepts.
  • 4e (Quatrième, age 13–14) → Expanding learning in sciences, literature, and languages.
  • 3e (Troisième, age 14–15) → Preparation year for the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB) and transition to Lycée.

Total teaching time: approx. 26 hours per week across 36 weeks.

Students study a wide range of disciplines:

  • The curriculum includes advanced reading, writing, and argumentation in French Language and Literature.
  • Mathematics – algebra, geometry, problem-solving, logical reasoning.
  • Sciences – physics, chemistry, life sciences (SVT), and technology.
  • History & Geography / Civic Education (EMC): historical knowledge, geography, citizenship, and democratic values.
  • Foreign Languages include English and/or additional modern languages.
  • Arts – visual arts, music, theatre.
  • Physical Education (PE) – sports, coordination, teamwork.
  • Digital Competencies – responsible use of technology, certification via the PIX platform.
  • Interdisciplinary projects (EPI) – connecting knowledge across subjects.
  • Inquiry-based learning involves conducting research, conducting experiments, and working on independent projects.
  • Collaborative learning involves group work, debates, and peer exchanges.
  • Personalised support – individual guidance adapted to student needs.
  • Digital integration – the use of ICT tools for everyday learning.

By the end of Collège, students will have:

  • Strengthened their mastery of French in oral and written expression.
  • Students will have acquired solid mathematical and scientific reasoning skills.
  • They also enhanced their understanding of culture, history, and civics.
  • Improved fluency in at least one foreign language.
  • Build artistic and physical skills through the arts and sports.
  • Enhanced critical thinking, collaboration, and autonomy.
  • Continuous assessment through observation, classwork, and projects.
  • Periodic reports (December, April, June) in the Livret Scolaire Unique (LSU).
  • National evaluations at key points in the cycle.
  • Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB) at the end of 3e:
    • The Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB) consolidates the results of continuous assessment.
    • There are final exams in French, mathematics, history/geography, sciences, and oral presentations.

The Collège stage aims to:

  • Consolidate fundamental knowledge across disciplines.
  • Prepare students for orientation and subject choices in Lycée.
  • Develop autonomy, responsibility, and digital competencies.
  • Strengthen civic values and cultural openness.
  • Ensure readiness for the Lycée (upper secondary, ages 15–18).

Why Choose Collège at Windfield?

  • A comprehensive program aligns with the French Ministry of Education.
  • A balance of academic excellence, creativity, and civic education.
  • Personalised support and guidance are provided for students during a key transition stage.
  • Preparation for the DNB and Lycée pathways, ensuring academic and personal growth.

At Windfield International School, the Collège experience develops well-rounded, confident, and globally aware students, ready to succeed in the next phase of their education.