Marseille, France’s second-largest city and a major Mediterranean port, faces unique challenges and opportunities in early childhood education. Like the rest of France, Marseille follows the national “école maternelle” curriculum ([Reference 1]), emphasizing early language development, socialization, and creativity.
However, given its high level of social diversity and economic disparity, Marseille is heavily involved in the “Réseaux d’Éducation Prioritaire Plus” (REP+) system ([Reference 2]), which provides additional funding and specialized support to preschools serving disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Initiatives such as “Parcours d’Éducation Artistique et Culturelle” ([Reference 3]) are particularly prominent in Marseille, introducing young children to arts and culture early on, seen as a way to bridge social divides and foster integration.
Many preschools also prioritize outdoor learning, utilizing Marseille’s unique coastal environment to enhance children’s physical and environmental education.
As a kindergarten director, I am deeply moved by Marseille’s efforts to ensure that all children—regardless of their background—can access a nurturing, rich, and inspiring educational environment from their earliest years.

References:

• [1] French Ministry of Education: National Curriculum for École Maternelle

• [2] REP+ Priority Education Networks Overview

• [3] French Ministry of Culture: Artistic and Cultural Education Pathways (Parcours EAC)