The UNSA Éducation union is escalating its demands for meaningful consultation regarding ongoing reforms to France’s vocational education system, announcing it will abstain from participation in the national committee on vocational training and education. The move comes amid frustration over what the union describes as a lack of genuine dialogue and a pattern of policy changes implemented without adequate consideration for frontline educators.
Specifically, the UNSA Éducation has been calling for the establishment of a dedicated monitoring committee for the 2023 vocational track reform initiated by Minister Carole Grandjean. While the High Commission for Vocational Education and Training has responded, the union deems the response insufficient. The core issue, according to UNSA Éducation, is that decisions impacting lycée professionnel staff are being made and communicated through press releases-including recent changes to baccalaureate exam dates, adjustments to differentiated learning pathways in the final year of study, and the introduction of new student tracking systems-without prior consultation or incorporation of their practical experience. this lack of collaboration, the union argues, undermines the successful implementation of reforms and places an undue burden on teachers.
The UNSA Éducation is demanding a “frank and sincere” social dialogue with policymakers, conducted within the established framework of a reform monitoring committee that accurately reflects the portrayal of various professions within the education sector. The union emphasizes that a truly effective committee must respect the representativity of each profession defended by its member syndicates.
Despite boycotting the national committee, the UNSA Éducation has indicated its willingness to participate in future working groups with the Ministry or the High Commissioner, signaling a continued desire to engage constructively in the reform process-provided that engagement is substantive and respectful of educators’ expertise.
