The importance of physical education and sport: The French education system in sport

Physical education and sport are essential for pupils’ development, the improvement of their motor skills, and learning a variety of physical and sporting activities.

At the Lycée français Molière, we incorporate the French educational system’s approach to sport by introducing a range of activities, starting with psychomotor skills in the nursery years, through to primary and secondary school, and culminating in the final years of the baccalaureate with Physical and Sports Education (EPS).

Differences between the French and Spanish education systems

Although both recognise the importance of physical education and sport in the educational development of students, there are certain differences that should be taken into account when choosing one of these two systems for the education of each child.

Philosophy of the subject

The French education system places equal emphasis on physical activity and the development of the skills and values needed in everyday life, such as teamwork, respect for rules, discipline, solidarity and respect for others. The system also seeks to encourage healthier lifestyles and a care for the environment.

For its part, the Spanish education system seeks to strike a balance between physical activity and the development of motor skills, whilst placing greater emphasis on achieving sporting and physical results.

Evaluation of the subject

The French education system assesses the subject by taking into account pupils’ learning process, both in terms of their sporting development and the values they have acquired, as well as their attitude during physical activities. The ultimate aim is to integrate sport into their daily lives, thereby improving their physical and mental wellbeing.

On the other hand, the Spanish education system tends to assess the subject primarily on the basis of sporting results, taking into account physical performance and the ability to carry out various activities.

Values through sport

In addition to being a sports subject, thanks to the French education system, physical and sports education encourages pupils to acquire a series of very important values to apply in their daily lives:

• Teamwork.
• Respect for the rules.
• Respect for their peers and themselves.
• Effort.
• Discipline.
• Solidarity.
• Perseverance.
• Sportsmanship.
• Tolerance.

Sports activities at school

The French education system’s approach to sport focuses on introducing a range of activities, from traditional ones such as basketball, football and handball to more modern ones such as hockey, yoga and cycling sessions, so that pupils can incorporate eco-friendly and sustainable practices.

In addition, we hold the Mini-Olympics on a regular basis, a sports day where Year 1 and Year 2 pupils take part in a range of sporting activities, demonstrating their ability to work as a team, their respect for their classmates and their sportsmanship.

The school also offers a range of extracurricular sports activities tailored to students’ needs and preferences, encouraging them to take part in sport outside school hours, and helping to develop their skills.

In the international school of Zaragoza Lycée français Molière We have modern, well-equipped sports facilities to ensure that the various activities can be carried out properly.