Collège Français Bilingue de Londres

Since 2021, David Gassian, previously head of the primary school. Joined the school as a teacher in 2011.

Has a strong and warm relationship with parents, who were thrilled when he stepped up as head. Has brought about many positive changes,

Registration opens in October for entry the following September. The admissions committee meets throughout the year until all places are filled. Early registration recommended for primary (regularly oversubscribed with waitlists); less pressure in

School ends after collège (year 10/age 15) when most students head straight to other French schools within London. Preference for Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill thanks to its IB and French Bac offering, and university success across

In 2025, 100 per cent pass rate including 100 per cent with honours/distinction at the Brevet (French equivalent to GCSEs).

The main draw is the bilingual programme. ‘This is not just a French school,’ say parents, ‘we chose it for its outstanding levels of both French and English.’

In primary (PSM to CM2/nursery to year 6), children receive classes on a Monday and

A dedicated on-site SENCo and speech and language therapist assess needs (dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia etc) and put a plan in place with families. External resources engaged when needed, eg one-to-one assistants brought on campus. School says it sees

Strikingly different from traditional French schools, with art, music and extracurricular activities all celebrated at a rich, community level. Includes class orchestras (everything from the xylophone to guitar), the much-loved Hackney concert (a

No dedicated sport facilities on premises but there are big primary and secondary courtyards for breaks/lunch and a multipurpose indoor hall for PE. School taps into local resources, eg Hampstead Heath running track for athletics (used for the summer

‘Quite strict’ and ‘teachers are disciplined’, say parents (meant positively as it means little disruption in classrooms). They are confident that this small school is ‘aware of what’s going on’ at all times. Sanctions steer towards teaching

Approximately half are French, including many mixed-heritage; around a tenth are British (not including those with dual nationality). Increasing numbers of non-French families, though still largely European, eg Spanish, Portuguese, Italian. A ‘quite

Managed by a 12-member board (six representing the companies that funded the acquisition of the building and six elected by parents) and run as a charity organisation.

Striking a fine balance between the high expectations of a French education and a more rounded approach, this small school in the heart of Kentish Town is cherished by families for its vibrant bicultural and superb bilingual environment. Bravo!