France Promotes Craftsmanship Training in Schools

Paris – 20.06.2026: In recent years, France has introduced various programs to promote craftsmanship skills in schools and provide students with alternative learning methods. A prominent example is the “Manufacto” program, started in 2016 by the Fondation d’entreprise Hermès. This program enables students to learn craft techniques under the guidance of professionals and create their own objects. In the 2025-2026 school year, over 2,300 students participated in “Manufacto,” which was implemented in 19 academies across France.

Another significant project is the introduction of the “Brevet national des métiers d’art” (BNMA), a new national diploma at Level 4 designed to strengthen the recognition of vocational crafts training. This diploma, which can be acquired starting from the third grade, gradually replaces the previous “Brevet des métiers d’art” and facilitates access to the job market or further studies.

Additionally, adjustments have been made in vocational high schools to improve students’ chances of success. From the 2026-2027 school year onward, the written examinations for the vocational Baccalauréat will be moved to mid-June to give students more preparation time. Furthermore, a two-week phase of personalized support will be introduced before registration on “Parcoursup” to ease the transition into professional life or higher education.

These initiatives aim to provide students with practical skills and broaden their career opportunities. By combining theoretical knowledge and practical application, students are better prepared to meet the demands of the labor market.

The French government emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship training and advocates for stronger integration of practical learning methods in everyday school life. These measures are intended to spark students’ interest in craft professions and promote appreciation for traditional skills.

By continuously fostering craftsmanship skills in schools, France seeks to offer a balanced education encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical abilities. This approach should help students discover their talents and s쳮d in various professional fields.

The implementation of these programs is carried out in close cooperation with educational institutions, chambers of crafts, and professionals to ensure that training content meets current labor market requirements. Regular evaluations are also conducted to assess the effectiveness of the measures and make adjustments as needed.

Overall, France’s initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting craft professions and integrating practical learning methods into school education. This could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges in the educational sector.