FAQ for professionals

The timetables are set by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation in a circular dated 2 August 2002, as follows:

• Year 3: a minimum of 5.5 hours and a maximum of 7 hours
• Years 5 and 6: a minimum of 5.5 hours and a maximum of 6.5 hours
• Year 7 (the year corresponding to entry into the second cycle at a specialised arts school): a minimum of 5.5 hours and a maximum of 6.5 hours
• Year 3: a minimum of 3 hours 45 minutes per week and a maximum of 5 hours per week;
• CM1–CM2: a minimum of 4 hours 30 minutes per week and a maximum of 6 hours per week.

Further information is available on the Eduscol website

To set up a class with flexible timetables in a primary or lower secondary school, the following is required:

• A signed agreement must be drawn up between the local authority or authorities, the relevant institution or association, and the headteacher or the local education authority inspector.
• Provide arts education in collaboration with regional national conservatoires, national music and dance schools, accredited municipal schools run by local authorities, and institutions or associations that have entered into a national agreement with the Ministry of Culture.
• Adhere to the curricula for classes with flexible timetables regarding the overall balance between general education and arts education.