Preschool - Maternelle
2025-2026 Maternelle Open Mornings- REGISTER HEREThe early years team is based in our bright and spacious nursery with a garden and playground. Through a balance of child and adult-led activities, and at a pace adapted to each child’s needs, your child is supported to gain autonomy, have fun and develop a thirst for learning.
A Unique French Preschool Experience
We are a unique preschool offering high-quality childcare in a French-speaking environment. Our experienced team of qualified teachers and practitioners provide excellent learning opportunities through play and structured activities, following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
We offer a French Maternelle accredited programme, led by a native French qualified teacher, and are part of the AEFE network of French schools abroad. Our curriculum, based on the French Maternelle framework (Petite et Moyenne Sections), is delivered in full French immersion, making it particularly suited for bilingual children who speak French at home. However, our programme is open to all children from Monday to Friday, whatever their level of French. We provide a balanced education that promotes multiculturalism while ensuring children develop within the structure of the EYFS framework.
Attendance & Individual Support
Children can attend 3, 4, or 5 days per week, depending on availability. Please note that there is a very limited number of spaces available for 2-day registrations.
Each child is assigned a key person who supports their learning and well-being, ensuring they feel safe, happy, and engaged in their learning journey.
Premises
Our facilities include a two-part large bright classroom, a playground with amenities, a garden area where children grow vegetables, fruits and plants, and a sleeping area.
Inspections
Classes are inspected by OFSTED.
Our OFSTED registration number is EY486621.
Our last inspection was on 26.04.2023 and we were rated “good”. The inspection highlighted that “Children develop a desire to learn and are keen to get involved in the interesting activities on offer to them. All children develop their language and communication skills to a good standard in both their first language and any additional language they speak”.
The Maternelle is also inspected by The Inspector of the French National Education who on his last visit in January 2024, gave very positive feedback about our unique offer and outstanding teaching.
Communication
We use the software Learning Journal to share pictures, comments, and observations of children throughout the week. We also have individual meetings to discuss children’s progress throughout the year, allowing a positive and effective partnership with parents / carers.
Children with Additional Needs
Mathilde Monnet is our Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO). Please do not hesitate to ask for an appointment if you would like to share information about your child with Mathilde, or if you have any queries, on SENCO@ecolefrancaisedebristol.org
"Both our kids really enjoyed their year in Maternelle at L'École Française de Bristol and enthusiastically used French at home within a few weeks of starting. The educational team establishes a strong caring bond with the children and offers a structured programme of fun activities around several themes per term. They also enjoy long play times and activities outdoors, as well as physical development indoors (Yoga, obstacle course). The team instils a strong sense of security and encourages developing independence and autonomy in daily tasks. All the staff are warm and approachable and give daily feedback and regular “Spotlight” meetings to discuss our child’s development. Above all, our son can’t wait to take his lunch box and walk through the door each morning!"
Alastair N.
