Windfield International School
EN | FR

Élémentaire (Primary School, Ages 6–11)

The Élémentaire stage of the French curriculum builds on the foundations of Maternelle and develops essential skills in reading, writing, mathematics, science, languages, and civic education. Covering ages 6 to 11, it is divided into two learning cycles:

  • Cycle 2 (Fundamental Learning, ages 6–9) – CP, CE1, CE2
  • Cycle 3 (Consolidation, ages 9–11, extended into 6e at Collège) – CM1, CM2, 6e

Élémentaire provides children with the knowledge and learning strategies they need to become confident, independent learners.

  • Cycle 1 (Ages 3–6)
    • PS (Petite Section): Age 3–4.
    • MS (Moyenne Section): Age 4–5
    • GS (Grande Section): Ages 5–6

The curriculum is structured around five key areas of learning:

  1. Language Development encompasses oral and written expression, vocabulary building, listening, and comprehension.
  2. Early Mathematics and Logical thinking – numbers, shapes, measurements, and problem-solving.
  3. Exploration of the World encompasses scientific awareness and the exploration of nature and the environment.
  4. The arts and physical development encompass activities such as music, drawing, dance, movement, and coordination.
  5. Socialisation and autonomy – cooperation, respect for others, responsibility, and independence.
  • French Language and Literature – reading fluency, writing, analysis of texts.
  • Mathematics – operations, problem-solving, geometry, measurements, fractions.
  • Science and Technology – living things, matter, physics, chemistry, environment.
  • History & Geography – historical periods, territories, citizenship.
  • Foreign Language – introduction and progression in a second language.
  • Arts and Music – creative expression through visual arts, theatre, and music.
  • Physical Education (PE) – sports, movement, coordination, teamwork.
  • Moral and Civic Education (EMC) – values of respect, citizenship, and democracy.
  • Progressive literacy instruction – step-by-step mastery of reading and writing.
  • Problem-solving in mathematics – applying concepts to real-life contexts.
  • Inquiry-based science learning – observation, experimentation, and discovery.
  • Collaborative projects – teamwork, discussion, and shared responsibility.
  • Bilingual approach – integration of foreign language learning.
  • Interactive learning – arts, theatre, and physical activities for creativity and expression.

By the end of Élémentaire, students will have:

  • Mastered reading and writing in French with confidence.
  • Built strong foundations in mathematics and logical reasoning.
  • Developed a basic scientific culture and curiosity about the world.
  • Acquired artistic and physical expression skills.
  • Learnt to collaborate, respect rules, and take responsibility.
  • Progressed in foreign language learning.
  • National evaluations (e.g., in CP and CE1).
  • Continuous assessment through observation, exercises, and projects.
  • Livret Scolaire Unique (LSU) – official student record with periodic reports (December, April, June).
  • End-of-cycle evaluations at CE2 and CM2.

Validation criteria include:

  • Minimum 80% attendance.
  • Academic progress and results.
  • Decision by the Cycle Council.

The Élémentaire stage is designed to:

  • Consolidate fundamental knowledge in literacy and numeracy.
  • Build critical thinking and logical reasoning.
  • Develop autonomy, collaboration, and civic values.
  • Strengthen bilingual and multicultural learning.
  • Ensure a smooth transition into collège (lower secondary, ages 11–15).

Why Choose Élémentaire at Windfield?

  • A rigorous and structured programme aligned with the French Ministry of Education.
  • A balanced curriculum that combines academics, arts, physical education, and civic values.
  • A nurturing bilingual and multicultural environment.
  • Continuous support and monitoring to help each child succeed.

At Windfield International School, the Élémentaire stage builds strong academic and personal foundations, preparing students to thrive in Collège and beyond.