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Our bilingual programs

THINK. LEARN. GO FAR

The future of our students is in good hands – ours.

ASEICA proposes a complete bilingual and bicultural program, from primary to high school, within partner public institutions located on the French Riviera in the heart of the Sophia-Antipolis technology park (Valbonne, Mougins, Biot, Roquefort-les-Pins).

Our programs are integrated to the classes of the French public system who deliver the official programs of the National Education, while also providing a strong Anglophone and international dimension: native teachers, active teaching methods, cultural projects, preparation for specific diplomas in international sections and at French International Baccalaureate (BFI).

A bilingual and bicultural educational path from primary school to BFI

International sections are a bilingual program that brings together French and foreign students in the same class. Their aim is to:

  • to facilitate the integration of students from foreign school systems,

  • to bring French students to a advanced command of English,

  • develop a nuanced understanding of English-speaking cultures. 

Within this framework, ASEICA offers a structured curriculum, From primary school to the final year of secondary school:

  1. Primary : learning English through literature, arts, culture and speaking, with the gradual implementation of bilingualism.

  2. College : strengthening of oral and written expression, text analysis, group work, development of autonomy and critical thinking.

  3. High school : preparation for BFI – American option, a demanding program, recognized for its academic level and international opportunities.

Programs by section

bilingual program international section school aseica (6)
The primary school curriculum
Cheerful portrait of a group of preteen student friends with their female teacher at school.
The middle school program
Learn more
Medium Close Up Portrait of Teacher and Pupils
The program at the high school
Learn more

Elementary school programs

Bilingual French-English education from the first year of primary school (CP)

In partnership with the National Education system and the municipalities of Valbonne–Sophia Antipolis (Sartoux school) And Mougins (Three Hills School), ASEICA offers an excellent bilingual education in CP to CM2.

  • 50 % of school time in English, provided by native English-speaking teachers (fully funded by ASEICA).

  • 50 % of time in French, provided by teachers from National Education schools.

  • Class sizes are controlled, allowing for individual attention and genuine language immersion. 

 

The objective: to offer a solid foundation in reading, writing, listening comprehension and English-speaking culture, while ensuring mastery of the fundamentals of the French system.

A typical day in the international section of primary school

Over the four school days (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday), students alternate between a full day where all core curriculum subjects are taught in English and a full day where they are taught in French. The week is structured as follows:

  • sessions of children's literature in English,

  • artistic and cultural activities,

  • moments of language exchange, debates, oral presentations,

  • projects carried out jointly by French and English-speaking teachers.

This organization allows for natural immersion: English becomes a language of work, creation, play and exchange.

bilingual program section international school aseica 6 scaled

Student Profile & Admission

Admission to the international primary section is selective and organized by the Academic Inspectorate, on the basis of: 

  • written and oral tests in French and English,

  • from a school record,

  • proof of residence in the areas concerned.

Admitted students generally present:

  • a strong curiosity for languages,

  • a good ability to concentrate,

  • a family environment that supports the bilingual project.

See the primary school admission process

Middle school programs

A 100% English-speaking international section college

In partnership with the French Ministry of Education, ASEICA supports students in four public middle schools on the French Riviera: International College of Valbonne (CIV), Niki de St Phalle (Valbonne), L'Éganaude (Biot), César (Roquefort-les-Pins). These institutions welcome French and foreign students in a decidedly international environment.

Students join the international section from 6th grade onwards, after tests or via the continuation of the international primary program.

Organization of teaching

At middle school, students benefit from:

  • of 7 hours of English per week (language and literature),

  • of 2 hours of non-linguistic subject instruction (CLIL), primarily history and geography taught in English, in addition to the French curriculum,

  • written and oral projects that develop analysis, critical thinking and self-confidence.

The pedagogical approach emphasizes:

  • continuous speaking, debates, presentations; ;

  • reading various texts (newspaper articles, extracts from novels, essays, historical documents); ;

  • group work, cooperation and autonomy.

bilingual program section international school aseica 7 scaled

Objectives & National Diploma of the International Brevet

At the end of the four years of middle school, the students take the exam National Diploma of the Brevet, International Option (DNBI), which values:

  • a high level of English,

  • the ability to follow and analyze subject-specific teaching in English,

  • transversal skills (rigor, methodology, analytical thinking).

 

This course directly prepares students for entry into the BFI (French International Baccalaureate) section at the high school.

A truly international environment

Students in the international section at the middle school develop within a specific context:

  • multicultural (varied nationalities within the classes),

  • open to exchange projects, cultural outings, clubs and English-speaking events,

  • demanding but supportive, where motivation and curiosity are encouraged.

See the College admission process

High school programs

The International High School of Valbonne (LIV)

THE Valbonne International High School (LIV) It welcomes several hundred students in the English-speaking international section, from the second year to the final year, within a campus that brings together young people of more than 40 nationalities.

The English-speaking section of ASEICA is one of the six international sections of the CIV.

The BFI program – American option

The high school cycle prepares for French International Baccalaureate (BFI), a bilingual and bicultural degree recognized in France and by the best international universities.

The program includes, in particular:

5 hours/week of English language and literature, taught by native speakers:

  • study of classical and contemporary works,
  • text analysis, training in argumentative essay writing,
  • development of critical thinking and advanced written expression.

2 hours/week of history and geography taught in English (CLIL), in addition to the French program; ;

in the penultimate and final years, a module of Knowledge of the World / Contemporary Studies – US Perspectives (2 hours/week) focused on:

  • independent research,
  • the completion of a long-term project,
  • understanding major contemporary issues.

The specific tests of the BFI complement the tests of the general baccalaureate, attesting to a high level in English and a genuine international culture.

bilingual program section international school aseica 1 scaled

Student profile & career opportunities

The English-speaking section includes a wide variety of profiles:

  • approximately 50 % of French-speaking students having acquired a very advanced level of English,

  • approximately 50 % of English-speaking or binational students, sometimes coming from foreign school systems.

They all share:

  • an excellent academic level,

  • a strong work ethic,

  • an ambitious plan to pursue further studies, in France or abroad. 

 

The BFI opens access to a wide range of leading universities (France, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Europe, etc.).

See the admission process for the Lycée

Orientation & University Guidance

ASEICA Guidance / University Guidance supports each high school student in building their post-baccalaureate plan:

  • personalized appointments from the first year onwards to clarify desires, strengths and study options; ;

  • assistance with writing applications, personal essays, cover letters; ;

  • preparation for international tests (SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, LNAT, etc.), particularly for the UK, the US or Canada; ;

  • monitoring of applications until responses from universities and assistance in the final decision.

Extracurricular activities & section life

Beyond the courses, ASEICA programs rely on a rich section life, 100 % English-speaking:

  • Yearbook : a book of the year, designed by the students, which highlights clubs, trips, events, artistic and community projects.

  • Model United Nations (MUN) : simulations of UN conferences, in English, to work on diplomacy, public speaking and argumentation. 

  • Theatre & Tech Crew : acting, set design, sound, lighting, backstage… everyone finds their place to develop creativity and leadership.

  • Language exchanges and international stays : immersion in English-speaking countries, strengthening of autonomy and confidence.

These activities extend the work done in class and contribute to the development of transferable skills : curiosity, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity.

FAQ.

We answer the most frequently asked questions.

Choose a category and the answers will appear right after.

What is ASEICA?

ASEICA is a association under the 1901 law which employs English-speaking teachers and supports international education within the French National Education system on the French Riviera. It is funded by tuition fees and family contributions.

To offer bilingual education French–English excellence, coordinated with partner public institutions (schools, colleges, high schools).

International openness, linguistic and cultural diversity, kindness and academic rigor.

The ASEICA teachers ensure English, National Education teachers ensure French; The school administration manages registrations and tests according to the academic framework.

He guarantees non-profit, the flexibility in recruiting English-speaking teachers and a governance close to families.

Programs aligned with French requirements with a strengthened English component, opening up international pathways in secondary school.

By aligning with French frameworks (academy / MEN), the recruitment of qualified teachers and international standards of good practice.

Biliteracy, intercultural skills and preparation for studies in France or internationally.

Through transparency of procedures, a sliding scale internal to secondary education and associative actions.

More than 40 years old action alongside the National Education system.

How many hours of French and English are taught in primary school?

Distribution balanced approximately half in English (ASEICA teachers) and the other half in French (National Education), i.e. ~12 p.m. per language/week.

Language/literacy, interdisciplinary projects (science, history, arts), communication and critical thinking.

Yes. The international sections are part of the French timetables/programs with specific adjustments.

Best practices of’IB PYP (transdisciplinary learning, learning community) and of the CIS (quality of learning and well-being).

Research shows positive effects on reading/math and lasting learning for students in immersion.

Yes, the SIs frame the disciplines and the language towards French certifications/exams with an international dimension.


Team coordination to ensure continuity of progress and consistency of projects. (Requirement present in IB/CIS frameworks).


Yes, the level-based organization and co-intervention promote adaptation to diverse bilingual profiles.


Yes: French, math, science, PE, arts… taught according to national programs.


Language support systems exist for FLE/EL depending on the academies, within the framework of the SI.

Who organizes the entrance tests for primary school?


Nice Academic Inspectorate : joint procedure for Sartoux (Valbonne) and Trois Collines (Mougins).

THE tests and results They fall under the jurisdiction of the Academic Inspectorate/DSDEN; ASEICA does not organize the tests.

 

Conditions published annually (age, residence in the academy, non-reproduction of tests, etc.).

 

Interview/test of language intended to assess the ability to follow specific courses; documents to be provided (municipal registration certificate, etc.).

Only if places become available; otherwise, recruitment focuses on the 6the.

Continuity towards the international high school from the academy (e.g., LIV) according to the procedures in force.

A French baccalaureate integrating teaching/assessments in the language of the section (LLCE and DNL); aims for a high level of bilingual/bicultural competence.


Two tests: French And section language; oral in CP (≈30 min), written introduced progressively at higher levels.


No, No program or past papers Official figures are not published.


Good level in both languages, especially for entrances on upper levels (limited places).


Yes, verified during test registration.


Opening according to the capacities of schools/municipalities and the academy; updates via academic channels.


ASEICA provides the English teachers; the school administrations handle administration/registrations/tests.


High requirement in French/English; information published by ASEICA and partner institutions (e.g., CIV).


Each year via the academy (e.g. calendar and FAQ CP/elementary).


Managed by the DSDEN; allocations possible after withdrawals.

What is bilingualism like to experience on a daily basis?


Alternating French and English during the week, cross-curricular projects and international classroom life.


English-language cultural days (e.g., “Anglo Day”), seasonal festivals (Halloween/Christmas) and community projects. (Recurring elements on the ASEICA primary pages).


Yes, on 4 days (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri) depending on the schools in the area.


Strong involvement from families (volunteering, events, donations), consistent with the associative spirit.


To fund English-speaking teachers and supplementary activities.


International standards (IB/CIS) emphasize well-being, inclusion and appropriate workload.


They consolidate academic vocabulary and oral/written skills in authentic contexts.


Yes, within the framework of French programs, some projects can be carried out in English.


Linguistic adjustments are possible depending on the local academic framework.


Depending on the year/establishment, the association may organize additional activities (subject to financial regulations).

Who is part of the ASEICA community?


Students, families, ASEICA teachers, public school teams, alumni, volunteers.


Volunteering at events, participation in community life and financial support (donations).


Themed days, cultural festivals, charity projects and community events.


Yes: students multicultural speaking several languages; this diversity is a pedagogical asset.


Through ASEICA/establishment channels (website, communications, secretariat).


Adherence to values, respect for academic procedures and reasonable participation in associative life.


The community brings together alumni and families; the association promotes inter-level connections through its activities.


Transparency, co-education and a clear timeline for admission and payment steps.


Via the forms/contacts provided by ASEICA for association activities and by the institution for school activities.


On the ASEICA pages Admissions and on the publications of the Academy of Nice.

Additional costs for all students (scholarship recipients and non-scholarship recipients)

Annual membership fee Fees for a first registration
150 € 500 €
Once a year per child The year in which the child, or the first child in a family, joins the English-speaking section for the first time, in order to confirm registration

Primary school fees (CE1 → CM2)

for one school year (from September N to June N+1)

RFR + / Tax units* Primary school Variation
0 to 7,500 € 2 846 € - 15 %
€7,501 to €15,000 3 013 € - 10 %
€15,001 to €22,500 3 181 € - 5 %
€22,501 to €30,000 3 348 € Standard
€30,001 and above 3 683 € + 10 %

* Reference indicator: Membership in a tariff bracket is determined based on:

(Household reference tax income + family allowances + state scholarship (middle/high school)) ÷ Number of tax shares in the household

School fees at middle school (grades 6-9)

for one school year (from September N to June N+1)

RFR + / Tax units* College Variation
0 to 7,500 € 1 900 € - 15 %
€7,501 to €15,000 2 012 € - 10 %
€15,001 to €22,500 2 124 € - 5 %
€22,501 to €30,000 2 236 € Standard
€30,001 and above 2 459 € + 10 %

* Reference indicator: Membership in a tariff bracket is determined based on:

(Household reference tax income + family allowances + state scholarship (middle/high school)) ÷ Number of tax shares in the household

The tuition fee schedule for state scholarship recipients at the College

Echelon Prices
level 1 1 722 €
level 2 626 €
level 3 0 €

High school tuition fees (grades 10-12) & BFI

for one school year (from September N to June N+1)

RFR + / Tax units* High school Variation
0 to 7,500 € 2 497 € - 15 %
€7,501 to €15,000 2 644 € - 10 %
€15,001 to €22,500 2 791 € - 5 %
€22,501 to €30,000 2 958 € Standard
€30,001 and above 3 231 € + 10 %

* Reference indicator: Membership in a tariff bracket is determined based on:

(Household reference tax income + family allowances + state scholarship (middle/high school)) ÷ Number of tax shares in the household

The tuition fee schedule for state scholarship recipients at the Lycée

Echelon Prices
level 1 1 557 €
level 2 1 233 €
level 3 940 €
level 4 617 €
level 5 323 €
level 6 0 €
Are there any sibling discounts?

Degressive scale indicated by level (e.g. –15%, –40% depending on child's rank).


Yes, they can change annually: refer to the official page and the “Financial Commitment” documents.”


Yes; the fees concern the English-speaking international section funded by the association.


An internal sliding scale is mentioned for secondary education (according to association news).


Details are provided annually by ASEICA (schedule, registration fees).

Does the international section open doors abroad?


Yes, through bilingual skills and international culture, consistent with IB/CIS pathways.


The SIs are authorized by the MEN, based on agreements and strict criteria (teachers, partnerships, schedules).


Bilingualism and international standards facilitate inbound/outbound family mobility.


Continuity of bilingual course in secondary SI, subject to admission procedures.


Improved average performance in literacy/math and lasting effects of immersion.


The SI courses lead to international options for the brevet/lycée or to the BFI depending on the streams, within the framework of MEN/AEFE.


The CIS standards place the global citizenship and well-being at the heart of the evaluation.


Yes, the SI system typically meets the needs of international/expatriate families.


Yes, they anchor the academic vocabulary of the disciplines in English from primary school onwards.

Reference frameworks IB/CIS provide quality benchmarks that are widely recognized worldwide.

Which partner institutions?


Nice Academy / DSDEN, public institutions (schools/colleges/high schools)


MEN/éduscol texts: organization and specific SI programs at school/college/high school.


Yes, historically integrated into local public operations for over 40 years.


By the donations (tax deductible under certain conditions), volunteering and participation in events.


To fund English-speaking teachers and the international part of the program, within the public system.


Standards CIS and approaches IB (curriculum, learning, well-being, global citizenship).


Yes, the association speaks out when reforms impact the local international section.


Via the ASEICA contact details published on the website.


Yes, each public institution retains its management and administrative responsibilities.


Yes, on competition/test and according to the school map/available places.

Do you need to be bilingual to teach at ASEICA?

For teaching positions in the English-speaking international section, a excellent level of language is essential:

  • For the English-speaking teachers, a level native or near-native fluency in English is expected, as well as good oral French skills for communication with teams, families and the institution.

  • For the French-speaking teachers, A very good level of English is recommended, in particular for working in pairs with English-speaking colleagues and supporting bilingual projects.

However, we are not only looking for a specific language level:
there pedagogy, The desire to work in an international context and the ability to collaborate in a team are equally important.

ASEICA's needs may include:

  • of the full-time positions,

  • of the part-time positions, depending on the levels, subjects and projects.

Some teachers work across several partner institutions to cover their required teaching hours.
When applying, don't hesitate to Please specify your availability. (full time, part time, preferred days): this helps us to consider the best possible arrangement with our needs.

Yes. Many members of the ASEICA team have already experienced a transition between educational systems (British, American, international…) towards the French system, and we are fully aware of this.

For newcomers, especially foreigners:

  • we explain the how the French school system works (programs, levels, exams, calendar); ;

  • the new teachers are accompanied by experienced colleagues, who share their resources, sequences and best practices; ;

  • we encourage the’course observation and co-teaching at the start, in order to facilitate getting a feel for things.

The idea is not to be “perfect” from day one, but to progress quickly in a supportive and structured environment.

Yes, it is entirely possible to apply from abroad.

We regularly receive applications from:

  • English-speaking or French-speaking professors currently working in other countries; ;

  • teachers from international systems (IB, international schools, etc.) wishing to settle on the French Riviera.

Some important points to keep in mind:

  • you must be in compliance to work in France (residence permit or work permit if necessary); ;

  • depending on the position, a good understanding of the French institutional context is a real plus, but it can also be acquired gradually; ;

  • the initial interviews can take place via videoconference ; However, on-site presence will be required for taking up the position.