Education holds a crucial role within Israeli culture. The title “People of the Book” attributed to the Jewish community is not without reason. Additionally, considering the limited resources of this nation, it heavily relies on its intellectual capabilities – often referred to as grey matter – as a primary economic asset. Given these factors, it's quite clear why the government places a significant emphasis on investing in the education, research, and nurturing of talent among its youth.
In Israel, education is free and mandatory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. However, this doesn't imply that there are no associated costs. Families are responsible for covering school supplies, insurance, and outings. Nonetheless, there are opportunities for discounts or even waivers based on individual circumstances. While a 2013 policy mandates free public kindergarten education for 3- to 4-year-olds, its complete implementation is still in progress.
The educational system is divided into three distinct cycles. The initial cycle corresponds to the French elementary school, from the first to the sixth grade, equivalent to the French “sixième” level (ages 6 to 12). The second cycle, covering grades seven to nine, aligns with both “collège” (ages 12 to 15) and “lycée” years. In total, there are 12 grade levels encompassing ages 6 to 18. General education concludes with the Bagrouiot, equivalent to the baccalaureate. These Bagrouiot are like certificates prepared in certain subjects and with coefficients chosen by the student. The number of certificates and the marks they carry testify to the quality of the diploma obtained.
Upon completing their general studies, most young men and women in Israel engage in military service, lasting 2 years for girls and 3 years for boys. Another option is to participate in civilian service. Some individuals choose to prolong their service by a year or more to save funds, often with the intention of exploring the world before commencing their higher education. As a result, it's not uncommon to see first-year students aged 25, 26 or older.
There are four different types of schooling: non-religious public schools, religious public schools, private schools, and Orthodox schools.
Orthodox schools primarily focus on examining sacred texts, often sidelining secular education. This topic frequently sparks discussions within Israeli legislative bodies and civil society circles.
The academic year kicks off around late August to early September, concluding in late June. Throughout this period, breaks aligned with the Jewish religious calendar.
International schools in Israel
Families can also enroll their children in private French schools, where they can earn a diploma recognized by the French government upon completing their studies. The bilingual education provided by some of these institutions significantly aids in integration, as it encompasses learning Hebrew, the country's official language. Each of these schools has its unique curriculum and distinctive attributes.
Among them, in Tel Aviv, the Marc Chagall secondary school is part of the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE). Contrary to its name, it provides education from CP to Terminale.
The Collège des frères in Tel Aviv and the Collège-lycée franco-israélien Marcel et Lucette Drahi in Holon, for grades 5 to 12, are also members of the AEFE.
Ashdod, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Netanya serve as the primary hubs of French-speaking communities in Israel. Notably, while Netanya lacks a French school, unlike the other three cities, it houses the Netanya Academic College (NAC), a higher education institution that assists French-speaking immigrants. The college offers various subjects taught in French, allowing these students to uphold their language skills and fully leverage the advantages of bilingualism, especially in international career pursuits. Netanya has also set up a psychological support service for French-speaking students in public schools to help them overcome the difficulties specific to the experience of geographical “transplantation”.
Non-French-speaking schools in Israel
Alternative schools such as Montessori and Waldorf (anthroposophical) exist in Israel, but only for the young. In various cities, in particular, Tel Aviv and its suburbs.
There are also American schools, including Tree House, located in Herzliya Pituah, 8 kilometers from Tel Aviv. Walworth Barbour International School in Israel has two campuses, one 20 kilometers from Tel Aviv and the other in Jerusalem. Both enjoy impeccable reputations.
Do your children need to speak Hebrew to study in Israel?
While it is feasible to manage daily life in Israel without an extensive grasp of Hebrew, individuals aiming for permanent settlement are strongly encouraged to attain a high proficiency in the language. This fluency remains pivotal for achieving successful integration. Consequently, families relocating to Israel with children should promptly enroll them in Hebrew-language schools. Conversely, following a recognized French school and academic curriculum is undoubtedly advantageous for youngsters and adolescents whose stay in Israel is temporary.
Immigrant children in Israel
Children of immigrants are smoothly integrated into Israeli schools, where they are placed in classes matching their skill level. Parents can select from four distinct schooling choices for their children. New arrivals can access financial and logistical assistance to facilitate this transition.
Useful links:
On education in Israel:
https://www.jewishagency.org/fr/education-en-israel/
https://yedidout.org/education-en-israel/
Teaching in French or to French-speaking pupils and students:
https://il.ambafrance.org/Les-etablissements-d-enseignements-francais-14474
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