Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Bordeaux

Bordeaux, a vibrant city in the southwest of France, is a hub for expats and digital nomads who are drawn to its rich culture, excellent wine, and beautiful architecture. While Bordeaux is not as large as cities like Paris or Lyon, it still offers a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to the needs of expat families. Among the most popular are the Bordeaux International School and the Ecole Bilingue de Bordeaux. These institutions are known for their high-quality education and international curricula, making them ideal for children of expats and global citizens.

Bordeaux International School (BIS)

Grades: Preschool to Grade 12
Location(s): Bordeaux city center
Website: www.bordeaux-school.com

Bordeaux International School is the only bilingual school in Bordeaux that offers education from preschool to the Baccalaureate. It provides an English-French bilingual program and follows the British curriculum leading to IGCSEs and the French Baccalaureate with international option (OIB). The school boasts small class sizes, a diverse international community, and a range of extracurricular activities to complement its academic offerings.

Ecole Bilingue de Bordeaux

Grades: Preschool to Grade 5
Location(s): Bordeaux and nearby Mérignac
Website: www.ecolebilingue.com

The Ecole Bilingue de Bordeaux offers a bilingual French-English education for younger students. With a focus on early language acquisition, the school integrates the French national curriculum with an enhanced English program. Facilities include modern classrooms and dedicated areas for creative and physical activities, ensuring a well-rounded education for its pupils.

CiMF - Collège International de Merignac

Grades: Grade 6 to Grade 10
Location(s): Mérignac, close to Bordeaux
Website: www.cimf.fr

CiMF, or Collège International de Merignac, is a middle school that offers a bilingual curriculum in French and English. The school follows the French national education system while integrating a strong English language program. CiMF is known for its multicultural environment, with students from various international backgrounds, and its commitment to academic excellence.

Lycée International de Bordeaux - Alain Dubreuil

Grades: Grade 6 to Grade 12
Location(s): Saint-Médard-en-Jalles, near Bordeaux
Website: www.lycee-international-bordeaux.fr

The Lycée International de Bordeaux - Alain Dubreuil provides a bilingual education with a focus on international-mindedness. Offering both the French Baccalaureate and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), the school caters to students seeking a rigorous academic environment. With state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities, it prepares students for global opportunities.

Ecole Montessori Bilingue de Bordeaux

Grades: Preschool to Elementary
Location(s): Bordeaux
Website: www.montessori-bordeaux.fr

The Ecole Montessori Bilingue de Bordeaux follows the Montessori educational approach while offering a bilingual French-English environment. The school emphasizes individualized learning, hands-on activities, and the development of independence. It provides a nurturing setting for children to explore and learn at their own pace.

International School of Bearn (ISB)

Grades: Preschool to Grade 10
Location(s): Morlaas, within driving distance from Bordeaux
Website: www.isbearn.com

Although a bit further from Bordeaux, the International School of Bearn is accessible for families living on the outskirts of the city. ISB offers a British-style education in English, with French as a second language. The school's curriculum leads to IGCSEs and provides a pathway to the IB Diploma Programme. With a strong sense of community and a commitment to holistic education, ISB is a viable option for expat families in the region.