Reunion Island Schools Prepare for 2025-2026 Academic Year
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Saint-Denis, Réunion - As the summer break draws to a close, Reunion Island is gearing up for the start of the 2025-2026 school year. More than 217,000 students will return to classrooms on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, alongside over 23,000 dedicated National education staff preparing for the new term.
Student Enrollment Breakdown
The majority of students will be entering primary school, with a total of 112,630 pupils enrolled. This includes 45,510 kindergarteners, 69,610 elementary school students, and 1,510 students in specialized inclusion units (ULCER). Secondary school enrollment will reach 99,000 students, comprising 58,600 middle schoolers, 40,390 high school students, and 1,290 students in ULCER programs at the college and high school levels. Additionally, 5,450 students will pursue post-baccalaureate studies at the island’s high schools.
Did You Know? Reunion Island’s education system reflects its unique cultural blend, integrating French curriculum with local influences and a commitment to inclusive education.
School Infrastructure and Changes
Students will attend classes in 656 schools across the island, including 520 primary schools (494 public and 26 private), 87 middle schools (78 public and 9 private), and 49 high schools. The school network is evolving, with the closure of the islet elementary school in Misheux, Mafate, and the opening of a new public nursery school in Beauséjour, Sainte-Marie, and a private general and technological high school under contract in Bras-Panon.
class Sizes and Staffing
Class sizes vary by level. Vocational high schools have the smallest average class size at 19.2 students, while general and technological high schools have the largest, averaging 30.4 students per class. Middle schools average 25 students per class, and primary and kindergarten classes average 19.8 and 20.2 students, respectively.
| School Level | number of Students | Average Class Size |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten | 45,510 | 20.2 |
| Elementary | 69,610 | 19.8 |
| Middle school | 58,600 | 25 |
| High School (General & Technological) | 40,390 | 30.4 |
| High School (Vocational) | N/A | 19.2 |
To support the student population, the Reunion Academy will employ 23,140 National Education agents. This includes 17,626 teachers (7,827 in primary education and 9,799 in secondary education), 309 Main Education Advisers, 159 National Education Psychologists, 577 supervisory staff, 1,272 administrative, technical, health, and social staff, and 3,197 student disability support assistants (AESH).
Pro Tip: the Academy of Reunion is actively investing in additional teaching positions, with 23 new positions allocated to primary education, one to secondary education, nine education assistant positions, and 16 full-time equivalent AESH positions starting September 1.
What challenges and opportunities do you foresee for education on Reunion Island in the coming years?
The Academy of Reunion is committed to providing a quality education for all students, and these figures demonstrate the ongoing investment in the island’s future.
Evergreen Context: Education in Reunion Island
Reunion Island’s education system is a reflection of its unique position as a French overseas department. It benefits from the French national curriculum while also adapting to the specific needs and cultural context of the island. the system emphasizes inclusivity, with dedicated resources for students with disabilities and a focus on supporting students from diverse backgrounds. The island’s commitment to education is evident in the ongoing investment in infrastructure, staffing, and specialized programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the total student population in Reunion Island for the 2025-2026 school year? Approximately 217,080 students.
- How many schools are there on Reunion Island? There are 656 schools, including primary, middle, and high schools.
- What is the average class size in Reunion Island’s high schools? The average class size in general and technological high schools is 30.4 students.
- How many teachers will be employed by the Reunion Academy in 2025-2026? A total of 17,626 teachers will be employed.
- What support is available for students with disabilities? 3,197 student disability support assistants (AESH) will be available to support students who require it.
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