Mareil-Marly · Forêt de Marly · Since 2003

A school at the edge of the forest

An English-language school for children aged 2–15, a short distance from Saint-Germain-en-Laye, where learning moves between the classroom and the Forêt de Marly.

Book a visit How we teach

Twenty years of learning outdoors

Forest International School Paris sits within the boundary of the historic Forêt de Marly, west of Paris.

Since 2003, we have taught through projects, and for over twenty years we have been part of the Forest School movement.

Children aged 2 to 15 follow the English National Curriculum, delivered through the Pearson iPrimary programme, and learn through exploration, creativity and direct contact with nature.

The school at a glance

Founded: 2003
Ages: Early Years 2–5
Primary 6–11
Middle School 11–15
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, delivered through Pearson iPrimary
Early Years: Montessori principles for autonomy and the Reggio Emilia play-based approach
Languages: Taught in English, with French every day: as a foreign language (FLE) for non-francophones and following the French curriculum for native speakers
Class size: Up to 15 pupils, in mixed-age groups
Location: Mareil-Marly, near Saint-Germain-en-Laye

How we teach

The ideas that shape a day at Forest, from the first year of nursery to the last year of middle school.

Pupils in school uniform holding large drawings on a lawn

Each child at the centre: Every child is different and learns best when they are happy. Teaching starts from the child in front of us.
Learning through projects: Projects connect subjects to the real world and give children practice in asking questions, thinking critically and working together.
The forest, all year round: In every season, the forest is an extension of the classroom, a place for exploration, observation and discovery.
Small, mixed-age classes: Classes have no more than 15 pupils across combined age groups. Teachers adapt to each child, and children learn from one another while progressing at their own pace.
Curiosity of their own: Children are given the freedom to follow what interests them, so the motivation to learn comes from within.
A safe place to learn: Every pupil is valued, and learning happens without coercion, shame or humiliation.