France: Transitions and changing schools
A planning checklist for school changes, phase transfers and moves between education settings.
Use this guide to prepare questions and evidence, then confirm current requirements with the school and the responsible national, regional or local education authority.
Start early
Ask when transition planning begins and which staff or services need to exchange information.
Transfer the support picture
Prepare a concise summary of needs, successful strategies, current support, communication needs and important professional reports.
Visit and ask
Discuss accessibility, daily routines, specialist support, transport where relevant and how the new setting will review support.
Confirm continuity
Ask what support will be available from the first day and when the first review with the new setting will take place.
Check the current framework
The European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education provides country information, national contacts and links to current policy sources. Rules and terminology can change and may differ within a country.
Adult learning support in France: university and training
For university study, Service Public directs students to the institution's disability contact or service (référent handicap). Support can include study arrangements and technical or pedagogical assistance. A school plan does not tell you everything a university will arrange; contact the receiving institution before the course starts.
For vocational learning, ordinary training can be adapted, and separate ESPO or ESRP routes may help with professional orientation or rehabilitation. An adapted apprenticeship is another route. Entry, disability recognition and support conditions depend on the programme.
Compare support before enrolling
- What course and qualification match the learner's goals?
- Who agrees study, communication and examination arrangements?
- What evidence is required, and when should it be submitted?
- What support is included, and what costs or funding conditions remain?
- How are placements, travel and daily access considered?
“Best” should mean a good match to the adult learner's needs and aims. Ask for a written support discussion rather than relying on popularity or an unverified provider ranking. Keep the learner involved in decisions and agree who may receive their records.
Official sources: Student disability support, Accessible vocational training and disability and training routes.