Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Nantes

As a mid-sized city in western France, Nantes offers a handful of international and bilingual schooling options for expat families and digital nomads. While the selection may not be as extensive as in larger cities, there are quality institutions that cater to the needs of international students. Among the most popular are the International School of Nantes and the Lycée International Nelson Mandela, both known for their robust curricula and diverse student bodies. Here are some of the schools you might consider for your children while living in or near Nantes.

International School of Nantes

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Nantes
Website: www.international-school-nantes.fr

The International School of Nantes offers a bilingual education with a curriculum that follows the English National Curriculum alongside French language and culture studies. With state-of-the-art facilities, the school provides a well-rounded education with a variety of extracurricular activities. The school is known for its small class sizes and personalized attention, ensuring a supportive environment for expat children.

Lycée International Nelson Mandela

Grades: 6th through 12th grade
Location(s): Nantes
Website: www.nelson-mandela-nantes.fr

Lycée International Nelson Mandela is a public school offering an international section with classes taught in English. The school prepares students for the French Baccalaureate with an international option (OIB), which combines the rigor of French secondary education with an in-depth study in English. The school boasts a diverse student body and a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and cultural clubs.

Ecole Bilingue Montessori de Nantes

Grades: Age 2 through 12 years
Location(s): Nantes
Website: www.montessori-nantes.fr

The Ecole Bilingue Montessori de Nantes follows the Montessori method of education and offers a bilingual French-English program. The school focuses on individualized learning and fosters independence and creativity in its students. With a range of practical life, sensory, and academic activities, children are encouraged to develop at their own pace in a nurturing environment.

École Internationale Magellan

Grades: Preschool through Grade 5
Location(s): Nantes
Website: www.ecole-magellan.com

École Internationale Magellan is a private bilingual school that offers a curriculum in both French and English. The school aims to develop students' academic skills, as well as their personal and social growth. With a focus on international-mindedness, Magellan provides a nurturing environment for children from diverse backgrounds to learn and thrive.

British International School of Nantes

Grates: Preschool through Grade 6
Location(s): Nantes
Website: www.bisnantes.fr

The British International School of Nantes offers a British-style education in the heart of France. The school follows the Early Years Foundation Stage and the English National Curriculum, providing a familiar structure for children from the UK and an international education for students of other nationalities. With a strong emphasis on language learning, students also receive instruction in French, promoting bilingualism from an early age.