Hope for the Suburbs. This is the name of the plan launched by Nicolas Sarkozy in 2010. After the opening of the boarding school of excellence in Sourdun, it’s Nice’s turn to open its own. The doors have been open since the start of the 2010 school year, providing an opportunity for success to the most disadvantaged.
The boarding school of excellence in Nice accommodates around thirty students – 15 boys/15 girls – who are deserving and come from modest backgrounds. The aim is to provide the best possible conditions for academic success as well as personal development for the students. Every evening from 5 PM to 9 PM, the students are supervised by 4 assistants and 5 teachers to do their homework and/or extracurricular activities. The same setup applies for Wednesday afternoons. There is no doubt that the National Education and the city of Nice have made significant efforts.
This is what is called investing wisely. For Nicolas Rodier, the principal of the boarding school of excellence, the results are convincing. “They succeed better than the majority of students. Two-thirds receive commendations. They are also more open to the world!” It must be said that activities are numerous. Cultural, scientific, and sports exposure is complete: theater, museums, observatory visits, skiing – everything is included. Nicolas Rodier adds, “We’ll see the results at the baccalaureate exams!”
First Year Test!
Such success comes at a price! The National Education and the City of Nice cover half of the cost. The other half is covered by grants that the children receive. Therefore, parents do not have to pay anything. “We do not want money to be an obstacle to education,” says the principal of the boarding school of excellence.
This first test year has allowed for some adjustments for the next school year. “Homework will be done exclusively from 5 PM to 7 PM. We realized they needed to link their homework immediately after classes.” It is also planned to continue personalizing schedules: “Some students need one evening of activities, others much more. It is important for each student to find their ideal schedule,” states Nicolas Rodier.
With a program that varies education, culture, sports, and enjoyment, the children can only be grateful to the supervising team. The principal goes further: “When they have a problem, they come to see us. We become their first circle of trust.” There is no doubt, they have adapted, integrated, and totally embraced it. Nicolas Rodier can only conclude: “It’s working well!”
