Comparing 2 schools side by side in USD.
Location: Av. D de Campo Claro, Zona Postal 1071A, Caracas, Venezuela. The Lycée Français de Caracas is the French section of Colegio Francia. It is located in Caracas, Venezuela.
Maternelle (TPS, PS, MS, GS); Primary (CP, CE1, CE2, CM1, CM2); Collège (6e–3e); Lycée (Seconde, Première, Terminale).
French international school in the AEFE network; AEFE-conventioned.
79% Venezuelan; 16% Franco-Venezuelan and French; 5% from around 40 other nationalities worldwide.
Linguistic Inclusion Program (DIL) supports integration into the French education pathway for non-French-speaking students. Beginning in middle school (sixième), due to the diversity of subjects and multiple teachers, enrollment in DIL becomes more intensive. Beginning in the 2021 school year, any non-French-speaking child entering the Lycée Français after the maternelle cycle (from age 6) will automatically join DIL for two years.
France (AEFE network).
Uniforms are mandatory and must bear the school crest; the Physical Education uniform is a blue tracksuit or shorts with the school T‑shirt, white socks, and sports shoes. Uniform colors by level are: Nursery – navy pants or dark jeans with a red polo; Primary – navy pants or dark jeans with a white polo; Collège – navy pants or dark jeans with a light blue polo; Lycée – navy pants or dark jeans with a beige polo, with a blue skirt optional for girls. Head coverings or accessories indicating religious affiliation or political affiliation are forbidden, and students arriving without the uniform are referred to the Student Life Office.
Cantines offers two dining options: a full meals service delivered by Restoven and a French bistrot‑style option via 12crepes, including sandwiches and crepes. Restoven also provides meals for bursaries and a ready‑to‑eat menu for other students. Students may bring their own lunch; microwaves are not available due to sanitary protocol.
The school is part of the AEFE network (Agency for French Education Abroad) and operates as the French section of Colegio Francia.
The school follows the programs of the French Ministry of National Education as part of the AEFE network. Since 2016, cycles are organized as Cycle 1: the maternelle (preschool; not mandatory; compulsory schooling begins in Cycle 2); Cycle 2: the fundamental learning (CP, CE1, CE2) with foreign languages, moral and civic education, mathematics, world discovery, arts and physical education; Cycle 3: the consolidation cycle (CM1, CM2, 6e) with greater focus on literature, history and geography, and the sciences with information technology tools; Cycle 4: the deepening cycle (end of collège: 5e, 4e, 3e) with the introduction of LV2 (German or Spanish) in 5e and 2.5 hours weekly, plus personalized support (1-2 hours weekly) and interactive pedagogical spaces (EPI). At the lycée, students follow the general track with Seconde, Première and Terminale. Project-based pedagogy is used across maternelle, primary and secondary to foster student motivation, autonomy and collaboration.
Brevet and Baccalauréat exam pass rates have remained above 90% for many years, placing the school among the top 20 lycées in the region.
Post-baccalaureate orientation resources are provided; Campus France Caracas offers promotion and orientation for pursuing higher education in France, and organizes university events and tests and provides documentation for studying in France.
Excellence-Major scholarships are offered; these government-sponsored scholarships are awarded to high-achieving non-French baccalaureate graduates from a French lycée to pursue higher education in France (Eiffel and Major programs).
The LycE9e FranE7ais de Caracas is a French school within the AEFE network. It follows the French national education system while maintaining emphasis on the Spanish language and Venezuelan culture. The student body includes about 79% Venezuelan, 16% Franco-Venezuelan and French, and 5% from around forty other nationalities, a diversity that generates dynamism and an open mindset. This diversity and the schools many actions strengthen the culture beyond its walls. Enrolling children at the LycE9e FranE7ais de Caracas provides access to educational excellence with an internationally recognized diploma, with the aim of excellence for all. Innovative pedagogy and numerous projects support students in developing critical thinking to become world citizens.
The objective is to develop inclusive pathways for students with needs and to accompany them and their families for as long as possible in the best conditions, including in the perspective of a future exit from the establishment when it no longer benefits the student. Students needing support include those with chronic illness; those with dyslexia, dysorthography, dysphasia, dyspraxia, or dyscalculia; intellectually precocious students; disabled students; and students with significant learning or adaptation difficulties. Families are invited to contact the establishment to learn about available opportunities. The school provides individualized or collective measures appropriate to each students situation. Inclusion and ongoing accompaniment through the educational pathway are central to its approach.
The courses are taught in French in accordance with the requirements of the French national education programs, and only some disciplines are taught in Spanish. The school is part of the AEFE network, which follows the French education system while valuing Spanish language and Venezuelan culture. The AEFE network promotes multilingual education and language learning across its schools. An AEFE language policy includes teaching the host-country language to all students (Spanish at this campus) and promoting English in an international context.
School psychologists are a principal resource for the school, teachers, and parents, offering on-site training on behavior management and parenting skills. They support students psychological development and socialization and intervene with those needing particular attention or facing difficulties or disabilities by contributing to the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of appropriate individualized or collective supports. They can promote school adaptation through prevention and follow-up, individually or in groups. The psychology service maintains ongoing communication with families and provides resources and guidance on topics relevant to student well-being, including materials shared during challenging periods such as the pandemic.
The internal rules establish safeguarding across the community, prohibiting violence and requiring respect for individuals and their beliefs; the head of establishment acts as the guarantor of rights and duties and can take measures to ensure safety and social peace. Weapons, dangerous objects, or items that could threaten people or property are strictly prohibited and may be confiscated with disciplinary sanctions and, when appropriate, reporting to authorities. Students have rights including the right to physical integrity, freedom of conscience, and expressed opinion within respect for others, with rules governing collective rights and responsibilities. The plan also outlines the rights and obligations of parents and staff, including participation in governance and adherence to the principles of laïcité and neutrality, and there are disciplinary mechanisms for violations.
This initial contact starts the information exchange and helps clarify program details, timelines, and required documents. The email address is used to address inquiries about admissions. The exchange sets expectations for the subsequent steps in the 2025-2026 cycle.
Step 02 Receipt of Documents: The applicant must submit to the Admissions Department all documents requested previously via electronic submission. The required documents vary by grade. For 1st grade, the documents include the studentfers school ID, photocopies of the parentsB4 identity cards (150% size), a recent passport-style photo of the student, proof of current or completed 3rd year of early education, a photocopy of the birth certificate, a photocopy of the vaccination certificate, and a health certificate issued by the pediatrician. For 2nd grade and above, the documents include a photocopy of the studentfers identity card (150% size) for students older than 9, the studentfers school ID (for younger than 9), photocopies of the parentsB4 identity cards and the RIF on a single sheet (as required by the Educational Zone), a photocopy of the birth certificate, a recent passport photo, a progress certificate (for applicants from 2nd to 6th grade), and a grade certificate (for applicants from 1st year to 5th year). Note: If the student studied outside the country, academic documents must be apostilled.
Step 03 Administrative Evaluation: After submission, the Administration Department conducts the administrative evaluation and subsequently informs the Admissions Department of the result. The evaluation determines readiness for progression to the next step in the process. The Admissions Department then reviews the outcome and communicates any further requirements or decisions.
Step 04 Family Interview: The process includes a pedagogical assessment of the applicant and a guided tour of the school facilities. This stage assesses fit with the program and school environment and provides families with an opportunity to see classrooms and resources. The interview complements the documentation reviewed in earlier steps.
Step 06 Enrollment Formalization: Upon approval by the Admissions Department, the family may pay the registration and enrollment fees and formalize enrollment at the school. The enrollment is concluded after the financial steps are completed and the necessary confirmations are made.
Scholarships: The AEFE can provide financial aid to French children residing abroad in the form of scholarships. A local scholarships commission reviews applications and analyzes information provided by families, then makes recommendations to the AEFE, which decides final awards after input from a national commission. The local commission meets twice a year: in spring for renewals and in autumn for new or deferred cases. The Consulatesure Scholarships Service informs families and provides the scholarship application form and the list of required documents. French families who wish to apply should download the dossier and submit it to the Consulates service by the stated deadline. The school provides these resources and guidance as part of its scholarship offering. The Bourses Scolaires page also notes that the AEFE may provide scholarships to French residents abroad and describes the local and national review process, including forms and documents to be submitted by families.
Las Mercedes, Caracas, Venezuela
Nursery through Grade 12. Language of instruction is English. Curriculum follows US Common Core Standards through Grade 10, with the IB Diploma Programme for Grades 11-12 and an American High School Diploma pathway.
Co-educational Day School
Nationalities represented: 24; 35% of students have dual nationality.
ESOL and Spanish as a Foreign Language.
United States
Nonsectarian.
School year: August to June (180 days). Schedule: Block schedule with extended periods.
Available
There is a cafeteria on campus; a weekly menu is available.
Escuela Campo Alegre is governed by a self-perpetuating Board of Directors representing the original shareholders who established the school; there are no elected board members. The Board provides broad direction and strategic planning and delegates day-to-day operations to the Superintendent, who is a full voting member of the Board.
The school has an American and International (IB) education with English as the language of instruction. Curriculum combines US Common Core Standards (Nursery–Grade 10), IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) candidate, and the IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12), along with an American High School Diploma and IB courses. Language support includes ESOL and Spanish as a Foreign Language. The Elementary program centers on core subjects—math, language arts, science, and social studies—with specialist offerings in Art, Music, Physical Education, Information Technology, and Library/Media, plus Spanish. ECA is pursuing IB Middle Years Programme candidacy with candidacy anticipated in 2026 and full implementation planned for the 2026–27 school year.
Student-teacher ratio is 6:1. Average class size is 14 students.
IB Diploma Program results show an average score of 33 points (Class of 2025), with the highest score achieved of 44. 93% of graduates go on to university or national service. University destinations include Stanford, Duke, Notre Dame, University of Michigan, and NYU in the USA; King's College London, University of Edinburgh, and University of Bath in the UK; Sciences Po, IE University, and Bocconi in Europe; and Universidad de Los Andes (Colombia), Tecnológico de Monterrey (Mexico), and UCAB (Venezuela).
Graduates move on to universities worldwide, including US institutions such as Stanford, Duke, Notre Dame, University of Michigan, and NYU; UK universities such as King's College London, University of Edinburgh, and University of Bath; and European and Latin American institutions including Sciences Po, IE University, Bocconi, Universidad de Los Andes (Colombia), Tec de Monterrey (Mexico), and UCAB (Venezuela). College counseling supports students through the process, helping them find the best-fit programs.
Escuela Campo Alegre addresses the academic, social, and emotional needs of students through a highly qualified, dedicated staff. The mission and guiding statements place students at the center of all activities. The program aims to develop effective communicators, critical thinkers, global citizens, knowledge-workers, collaborative community members, and motivated lifelong learners. The curriculum is standards-based and includes core subjects plus Art, Music, Information Technology, Library/Media skills, and Spanish. The school emphasizes a strong home–school partnership to support meaningful learning and holistic development, with students described as physically and emotionally healthy.
Academic, social, and emotional needs are addressed by a highly qualified staff. Language support is provided through ESOL and Spanish as a Foreign Language. A school psychologist works in coordination with parents and faculty to support student well-being and learning. Counseling services are offered for academic, emotional, and university guidance, and there are parent and student workshops on mental health, prevention, and life skills. Through differentiated instruction, every learner is challenged, supported, and inspired.
Language support programs include ESOL and Spanish as a Foreign Language. The language of instruction is English.
A school psychologist collaborates with parents and faculty to support student mental health. Counseling services provide academic, emotional, and university guidance. Parent and student workshops cover mental health, prevention, and life skills. An age-appropriate health and wellness program supports well-being across all age groups. Graduates are recognized for resilience, ethical leadership, and global awareness as part of ECA's outcomes.
The primary concern is student well-being and safety, with ongoing review of the Student Protection Policy (SPP). All teachers hold valid teaching certificates, and each adult is subject to government background checks with references verified. A Code of Conduct for teachers, staff, and others interacting with students is reviewed annually. Procedures exist to report inappropriate activity, including an anonymous CoC reporting procedure. An age-appropriate health and wellness program and parent information sessions support safeguarding, and a student protection team oversees these efforts.
1. Age and class size: Nursery requires three years old by September 30th of the entering school year and to be toilet trained. Pre-Kindergarten requires four years old by September 30th; Kindergarten requires five years old by September 30th; Grade 1 requires six years old by September 30th. Grades 2–12 have a class size guideline of 22 students, with Nursery 14, Pre-K 16, Kindergarten 18, Grade 1 20, and Grades 2–12 22; the Superintendent may grant exceptions to maximum class size under extraordinary circumstances.
