France school protests spread as clashes and fires erupt

Students, parents and trade unions are demonstrating across France over school conditions, teacher shortages and what protesters describe as inadequate government investment.

Protests spread nationwide

School demonstrations have expanded across more than 30 French towns and cities, with students, parents and trade unions joining calls for increased funding and better conditions in secondary schools. The movement began in the Paris region before spreading nationwide.

Schools blocked or closed

Unions say around 1,800 high schools have been blockaded or disrupted, while protests have also reached universities. The government has reported hundreds of schools with classes fully or partially suspended as authorities try to maintain safety during the demonstrations.

Clashes with police

Tensions have escalated in several cities. In Strasbourg, protesters and police clashed, while Lyon saw confrontations around schools. Police have used tear gas and other crowd-control measures as some demonstrations turned violent.

Fires and damage reported

In Lille, protesters set fire to rubbish bins, while barricades and fires have also been reported in other cities. Authorities say a number of schools and public facilities have suffered damage during the unrest, including schools that were burned or ransacked.

Students demand better conditions

Protesters are calling for more teachers, smaller class sizes, improved school buildings and better learning conditions. Students have also raised concerns about long school days, overcrowding and pressure surrounding access to higher education.

Arrests and injuries rise

More than 5,000 people have been arrested since the latest escalation, most of them minors, while hundreds of students, education workers and police officers have been injured. Recent reports put the number of arrests above 6,000 as the demonstrations intensified.

Government faces pressure

The government is under growing pressure to respond to the protesters while also dealing with severe budget constraints. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has promised measures addressing teacher shortages, school hours and deteriorating facilities, with proposals expected later this month.

Concerns over future

For many students, the demonstrations reflect wider anxiety about their education and future prospects. A student in Paris told the BBC that she was frightened about what lies ahead, as the movement continues to grow.

Political pressure grows

The unrest is adding to pressure on the French government ahead of the 2027 presidential election. While authorities have condemned violence and arrests have increased, unions and student groups continue to demand concrete improvements to the education system.

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