France (Reviews of national policies for education)

The theme of equality is the primary focus of this second review of France's educational policy. As French authorities are currently implementing a "New contract for Schools" which targets the reduction of growing economic and social inequality, this is an opportune moment to review the effectiveness and relevance of the measures introduced in recent years. This report covers three major innovations: education priority areas aimed at preventing marginalisation resulting from underachievement; the reform of teacher training to ensure the quality and consistency of education within an increasingly diversified system; and the new "intermediate" diplomas in technical and vocational education created to provide training that is better adapted to the needs of the job market. In conclusion, the report provides some suggestions about how to strengthen the innovative and strategic planning potential of the education system.