FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about GrandChêne Section Internationale.
What is GrandChêne Section Internationale?
We are a private, fee-paying section integrated in French public partner schools. GrandChêne is run by a board of parent volunteers, qualified native English-speaking teachers and dedicated administrative staff. Our mission is to offer high-quality English programmes at affordable rates, thanks to the high implication of the parent volunteers.
What is the level of English required for a child to be eligible for the Section Internationale?
Children are required to read, write, speak and understand English to a native, age-appropriate level. We do not offer “catch-up” programmes.
Does my child need to sit an English test to enter GrandChêne?
All candidates for GrandChêne need to sit an age-appropriate test (written & oral) in English. These tests are compiled by the teaching team to ensure that a child will have the necessary level to follow the programme with confidence. We cannot put a child in a situation where he/she may struggle to keep up and fall behind, as this can have serious repercussions on a child’s confidence.
Do I need to declare a French address in the catchment area?
At the time of applying, you should declare your current address (in France or abroad). If you are returning to an existing address in the area, please declare that also at the time of applying (possibly in the letter of motivation). For further details, please visit the different levels below as the requirements are not the same.
How do I submit a letter of motivation?
We recommend that you write it using “Word” or other word-processing software, then export/save as PDF, which should then be uploaded to the Online Applications platform. You are not required to print & sign before uploading as you are applying via a secure site. If submitting a handwritten letter, please scan and upload as a PDF document.
What should the letter of motivation say, and why must it be in English?
It is important for us to see that a child is, and has recently been, exposed to native-level English. Please explain why you are applying (Anglophone parent(s), English-speaking programmes, an extended stay in an English-speaking country, etc.). The more you tell us, the easier it is for us to assess a child’s potential. We also need to see that the child will have sufficient support at home from parents with a high level of written English. A child with no English at home will struggle to keep up with the programmes.
What should I submit as handwritten work (except for Grande Section and CP)?
It is important for us to see that a child can write age-appropriate English; spelling and grammar tests are NOT acceptable. Book reports, short stories, diary entries, reading comprehension answers, etc., which show an age-appropriate mastery of grammar, varied vocabulary, punctuation and presentation are suitable. You may submit several pieces of work, but all pages must be compiled into ONE PDF document (not exceeding 10 MB) — please scan in black & white. Please DO NOT submit a Zip file.
What is a “dérogation”?
Our Primary Integrated Programme takes place in a French state primary school, which is subject to a catchment area. A “dérogation” or dispensation may be awarded to children outside the catchment area, giving them permission to attend Pasteur Primary School instead of their catchment school. The dispensations are awarded on merit by the Primary Commission (comprising the Section Internationale, Pasteur Primary School and the Inspection Académique 78) and are limited in number, based on the availability of space.
How do I obtain a “dérogation”?
If your child is eligible and is offered a place in Pasteur Primary School following the Primary Commission, you will receive the required documentation and procedure. You cannot start the procedure without the notification from the Inspection Académique 78.
Can parents drop their children off earlier or pick them up later than the official class times?
No. The Section Internationale is only responsible for the children during the official class times.
- Please do not drop your children off earlier and leave them alone in front of the school gates.
- We are aware that emergencies can happen. If you will be late for pick-up, please contact your child’s teacher or the head teacher. Do not phone the Admissions office as we are not on-site. If lateness is a regular occurrence, you may be asked to withdraw your child.
- If you have not signed an exit slip authorising another person to collect your child, your child will not be released. This applies to the Externs and Wednesday children only.
Does the Section Internationale organise transport for their programmes?
No, we do not provide transport and do not recommend that families plan on using public transport for primary-aged children.
- For the Primary Integrated Programme (PIP), we recommend that families live as close as possible to Pasteur Primary School.
- For the Primary Externs Programme (PEP), an adult must be available to provide transport. Children cannot sign up for lunch or the after-school club at Pasteur. It is not recommended to pick them up 15 minutes before English lessons begin.
- For the Primary Wednesday Programme (PWP), many families car-pool. The Section Internationale can put families in touch at the start of the year but cannot guarantee a car-pool arrangement, so please do not count on other families for logistics.
Questions and answers for the Collège Section will be added soon.
Thank you for your patience.
Questions and answers for the Lycée Section will be added soon.
Thank you for your patience.