Possibly the fifth and most recent French school to open in Dubai is Lycée Français Jean Mermoz (LFJM). Both the Lycée Français Georges Pompidou and AFLEC, which were formerly the only options available to French families, were frequently full.
As the newest addition to the French educational landscape in Dubai, the Lycée Français Jean Mermoz (LFJM) shines as a beacon for those seeking French education. Prior options like Lycée Français Georges Pompidou and AFLEC frequently reached capacity, leaving families to consider alternatives such as Lycée Libanais and International Concept for Education (ICE), both with strong Lebanese influences. LFJM emerged to cater to this growing demand, offering the French curriculum in a space expansive enough to address the needs unmet by its predecessors.
Philosophy & Approach
LFJM emphasizes three pillars for student growth:
Enhancing student autonomy.
Nurturing global citizenship.
Holistic cultural and physical development.
From its inception, LFJM adopted a four-class-per-grade policy, ensuring personalized attention to every student's well-being and growth.
Staff & Demographics
A 38% staff turnover might raise eyebrows, given the UAE average is 22-24%. However, this figure largely represents the addition of new hires as the school expands. Predominantly catering to French nationals, LFJM is also home to students from over 60 nationalities, including seven Emiratis and over 40 Students of Determination. With 78 predominantly French teachers, 15 teaching assistants, and a guidance counsellor, LFJM ensures a well-rounded education for all.
Curriculum
Accredited by the French Ministry of Education and associated with the AEFE, LFJM adheres to the French National Curriculum. Multilingual instruction is a forte with Arabic, French, and English introduced from CM.
Despite many Maternelle students being non-English speakers upon joining, their English proficiency, as per DISB assessments, outperforms national French curriculum benchmarks. LFJM integrates the Cambridge curriculum to bolster English language teaching. Their students consistently display commendable achievements in both primary and college-level studies.
Facilities
Strategically located in Al Qouz, LFJM's campus is in proximity to residential hubs like Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim, while also being accessible via the Al Khail Road. The purpose-built facility boasts a 300-seat auditorium, dual libraries, three state-of-the-art labs, a canteen, a semi-Olympic swimming pool, two sports arenas, and a pair of gymnasiums. For younger learners, the school provides spacious, equipped outdoor play areas.
Areas of Improvement
LFJM's primary challenge lies in Arabic subjects, particularly Islamic Education and Arabic as a Second Language, which currently holds an "acceptable" rating. The college-level Arabic performance will require immediate attention, given its current "inadequate" standing.
Strengths
Exceptional student behaviour and a robust learning attitude.
A vibrant school community buoyed by strong parent engagement, excellent communication, and warm relationships.
Stellar academic achievements in core subjects: science, math, English, and French.
A visionary leadership team, providing LFJM with purpose and direction.