Ermitage International School Paris vs ICS Paris International School

	E Ermitage International School Paris Paris, France	I ICS Paris International School Paris, France
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €6,963 - 46,800	Fees / year €19,550 - 31,260
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum French Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils 500
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English, French	Instruction language English, French
Opened	Opened 1941	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Maisons-Laffitte, Île-de-France, France. 46 Avenue Eglé, 78600 Maisons-Laffitte, France. Nestled on a leafy campus in the historic town of Maisons-Laffitte, about 20 minutes by train from Paris.	Location 23 rue de Cronstadt, 75015 Paris, France. Located on a single campus in the heart of Paris. The nearest Metro is Line 12, Convention.
Stages	Stages Pre-K through high school (Pre-K, Primary, Collège, Lycée). IB and French bilingual curriculum.	Stages Nursery - Grade 12; IB Continuum (PYP, MYP, DP).
School type	School type International day and boarding school offering IB and French bilingual programmes.	School type Private, co-educational international school. IB World School offering PYP, MYP and DP on a single campus in the heart of Paris.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix 26 nationalities represented; 14 languages spoken.	Pupil nationality mix Students come from over 70 countries.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Additional Diverse Learning Needs Support: Fees shared according to school assessment of student needs. English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme available (English / French / Spanish / Mandarin).	Additional learning support Learning support embraces learner diversity and offers mild to moderate academic support. The program is supervised by a Student Support Coordinator and includes an ILP; supports learners from Primary Years Programme to IB Diploma Programme. It provides two levels of academic support: Pairing Support and Individual Support.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation France	Country affiliation France
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Door-to-door shuttle service with 7-seat vans. Morning pick-up 7:20–8:20; Monday–Friday afternoon pick-up around 4:15 with drop-off 4:30–5:30; Wednesday around 1:15; extracurricular pick-ups around 5:15; fees depend on distance (under 10 km 7560€, 10–14 km 8220€, over 17 km 9050€). Areas covered expand with demand.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & New‑student Fees - Bilingual Primary (New students): Application Fee: EUR 300. Enrollment Fee: EUR 600. - Bilingual Collège & Lycée (New students): Application Fee: EUR 300. Enrollment Fee: EUR 600. - International Primary & IB (New students): Application Fee: EUR 500. Development Fee (one‑off): EUR 3,500. Annual Tuition — Bilingual (day students) - Lower School (Pre‑K and Primary, Petite Section to CM2): EUR 7,500 per year. Mandatory Français Langue Étrangère support (where required): EUR 1,550 per year. Security Fee: EUR 150 per family (degressive for second/third child). - Collège (6ème, 5ème, 4ème): EUR 7,600 per year. Security Fee: EUR 150 per family. - Collège/Lycée (3ème, 2nde): EUR 7,600 per year. Security Fee: EUR 150 per family. - Lycée (1ère, Terminale — French Baccalauréat): EUR 8,300 per year. Security Fee: EUR 150 per family. Annual Tuition — Bilingual Boarding (includes tuition, room & board) - 5‑Day Boarding (Collège 6ème–4ème): EUR 26,900 per year. 7‑Day Boarding: EUR 39,050 per year. - 5‑Day Boarding (Collège/Lycée 3ème–2nde): EUR 26,950 per year. 7‑Day Boarding: EUR 39,200 per year. - 5‑Day Boarding (Lycée 1ère–Terminale): EUR 28,500 per year. 7‑Day Boarding: EUR 39,900 per year. - Boarding mandatory ancillary charges where applicable: Expense Account for 7‑day boarders: EUR 2,000; New student visa process fee (7‑day boarders): EUR 1,200; Returning student visa renewal: EUR 1,000; Damage deposit (boarding house): EUR 1,000. Security Fee: EUR 150 per family (degressive). Annual Tuition — International School (IPP, IB MYP & DP) - International Primary Programme (IPP, Grades 1–5): EUR 16,200 per year. Security Fee: EUR 150 per family. Application Fee: EUR 500. Development Fee: EUR 3,500. - IB MYP 1–3 (Day students): EUR 24,950 per year. IB MYP 4–5 (Day students): EUR 27,900 per year. IB DP 1–2 (Day students): EUR 28,950 per year. Security Fee: EUR 150 per family. Additional English or learning‑support fees may apply. Application Fee: EUR 500. Development Fee: EUR 3,500. IB Boarding (includes tuition, room & board) - IB MYP 1–3: 5‑Day Boarding EUR 42,700 per year; 7‑Day Boarding EUR 49,750 per year. - IB MYP 4–5: 5‑Day Boarding EUR 45,600 per year; 7‑Day Boarding EUR 52,700 per year. - IB DP 1–2: 5‑Day Boarding EUR 46,800 per year; 7‑Day Boarding EUR 53,900 per year. - Boarding ancillary charges and deposits (as above): Expense Account EUR 2,000 (7‑day boarders), Visa process fee EUR 1,200 (new boarders where applicable), Returning student visa renewal EUR 1,000, Damage deposit EUR 1,000. Security Fee: EUR 150 per family (degressive). Student Life Options, Meals & Day‑care (examples and current reference fees) - Hot lunch (Lower School, 4 days): EUR 1,826 per year; Hot lunch (Lower School, 5 days): EUR 2,075 per year. Collège/Lycée hot lunch (4 days): EUR 2,041; (5 days): EUR 2,320. Lunch‑box option: EUR 873 per year. Some lunch fees on the published documents reference the 2025–2026 fees and note that 2026–2027 lunch fees will be announced. - Lower School day care (2025–2026 reference figures): Morning only EUR 958; Afternoon only EUR 1,308; Morning & Afternoon EUR 2,039. - IPP school lunch (2025–2026 reference): EUR 2,075 per year. IB MYP & DP lunch (2025–2026 reference): EUR 2,320 per year. Other Mandatory & Typical Additional Costs - Security Fee (per family): EUR 150 (reduced to EUR 100 for second enrolled child; no charge for third child). - Additional English Support (EAL) where required: Intensive EUR 4,500; Enhancement EUR 950 (assessment‑based). - DP online Pamoja course (per course): EUR 1,200 (with DPC agreement). DP external self‑taught Language A: fee paid externally. DP2 exam fees example: EUR 1,100. - Textbooks & supplies (examples): MYP textbooks approx. EUR 300; DP textbooks approx. EUR 500; exercise books & supplies approx. EUR 100. Uniform (MYP example): approx. EUR 200. Optional paid extra‑curricular activities: approximately EUR 500 per semester per activity (most ECAs provided without charge; some are paid). Residential trip deposits and trip costs vary (examples: MYP residential trip EUR 500–1,200 with EUR 250 deposit; ski trip approx. EUR 1,300 with staged payments). Billing Schedule & Payment Terms (contractual highlights) - Once a school place offer is accepted, there is a 7‑day window to complete the contract and pay the tuition deposit and the enrollment fee. An Advance Tuition deposit is required to confirm enrollment or re‑enrollment. - The Advance Tuition deposit and application/development fees are non‑refundable except where expressly stated (Advance Tuition deposit is refundable only in the event of documented force majeure). After confirmation/enrollment, the full annual tuition is non‑refundable; the school may consider exceptional partial settlements only in demonstrated force majeure or compelling, documented circumstances. For a change from boarding to day student, the annual boarding fee remains due and no refund is considered for that year. - Specific trip payments, deposits and staged payment dates are set per activity (examples: several residential trip deposits of EUR 250 due by specified dates; ski trip staggered payments). Additional charges such as visa processing fees and damage deposits are due as stated in the boarding schedule. Refunds & Deposits - Application and enrollment/development fees are non‑refundable. The Advance Tuition deposit is only refundable in the event of documented force majeure; otherwise it is non‑refundable. If a student withdraws after confirming enrollment or during the school year, the full annual tuition is non‑refundable except in exceptional, documented circumstances. Unused funds from the boarding Expense Account are refunded to the family when the student stops boarding. Damage deposits are held as specified and refunded subject to terms. Fee Payment Options & Invoicing - Contracts and invoices set out deposit requirements and the payment schedule; parents are required to pay the tuition deposit and enrollment fee within the contractual window after an offer. For enquiries about invoicing or accepted payment methods, contact admissions@ermitage.fr or the school admissions team using the phone numbers provided on the school's admissions materials. Summary Notes (what is included in the published fees) - Annual tuition figures shown above cover the Ermitage curriculum and, for boarding packages, include tuition, room and board. Certain student life options, meals, day care, trips, additional language or learning support, visas, deposits and one‑off development or administrative fees are charged in addition to tuition as detailed above. Security fees are applied per family and are degressive for multiple children.	Fee details Application fees - Application fee (new students): EUR 750 per child; this fee is non-refundable. Enrolment / Registration / Deposits - Enrolment package for new students (total): - Registration fee (payable on admission): EUR 2,800 per child (non-refundable). - Deposit: EUR 4,000 per child (refundable when the child leaves the school provided there are no outstanding charges). - School Development Fund (new students): EUR 3,750 (obligatory for new students). Re-enrolling students: School Development Fund EUR 1,000. Annual tuition fees (2025/2026) — by year group and per-term breakdown - Nursery / Pre-K / Kindergarten: Annual tuition EUR 20,595. Per term (three-term schedule): EUR 6,865. - Grade 1 – Grade 5: Annual tuition EUR 23,940. Per term: EUR 7,980. - Grade 6 – Grade 8: Annual tuition EUR 27,840. Per term: EUR 9,280. - Grade 9 – Grade 12: Annual tuition EUR 31,260. Per term: EUR 10,420. (Note: tuition for mid-year starters is prorated by month of arrival on a 'pro rata temporis' basis; the school charges in full for the month of arrival.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoicing: invoices are issued on a 10-month basis; students are enrolled for the full school year (10 months). - Typical instalment schedule (when paying in instalments): three instalments debited on 10 July, 10 September and 10 December. One-off payment option is also available. - Mid-year admissions: annual tuition fees are prorated by month of arrival; other new-student fees (application, registration, deposit, school development fund) are due in full. - Late payment / rejected direct-debit charges: rejected SEPA withdrawals incur bank charges (an invoiced fee per rejected withdrawal) and a convenience fee applies when paying by direct-debit in instalments. Boarding - ICS Paris is a day school and does not offer boarding facilities. Families must arrange their own accommodation. Other mandatory and optional costs - Lunch supervision (mandatory for Nursery to Grade 5 for students bringing a packed lunch): EUR 1,677 per year (invoiced with tuition). - Hot Lunch (optional catered canteen service): EUR 2,865 per child per year (primary); lunch supervision for students who take hot lunch is included in this cost. - Door-to-door shuttle (optional, annual prices): - up to 10 km: EUR 7,560 per year. - 10–14 km: EUR 8,220 per year. - up to 17 km (subject to approval): EUR 9,050 per year. - Learning support (where required): Group lessons and individual lessons are chargeable — for 2025/26 example figures appear in the fee schedule (group / individual). - Technology / device fees: - iPad deposit (Grades 5–8): EUR 400 (refundable on return in good condition). - Laptop (Grades 9–10): EUR 700 (cost inclusive of insurance; device provided/purchased via the school). - Uniforms: uniforms are mandatory from Nursery through Grade 12; families purchase the required uniform items via the school's uniform arrangements and will be invoiced for those items. Discounts and sibling policy - A 25% discount is offered for the third enrolled child; this discount applies to tuition fees only and is not combinable with employer/company full or partial fee coverage. Refunds and cancellation terms (key points) - Application fees and registration fees are non-refundable. - The deposit (EUR 4,000) is refundable when the child leaves the school, provided there are no outstanding charges on the family account. - The first-trimester tuition payment (or initial down payment) is treated as an initial down payment at enrolment and may be non-refundable except under specific short-notice cancellation conditions described in the school's terms (for example, a narrow timeframe for refund if cancellation occurs within a defined period after admission). Families who cancel after the stated short-notice window forfeit amounts paid at enrolment. - Re-enrolment downpayment for the following year: EUR 4,500 (deducted from the following year's invoice); special circumstances for refund are limited and defined in the terms of payment. Methods of payment and practical notes - Accepted methods for school tuition and major invoices: direct debit (SEPA) — one instalment or three instalments — and bank transfer. SEPA direct debits should be arranged from a French bank account when possible but SEPA from eligible European countries is accepted. A convenience fee (when using direct-debit in instalments) and charges for rejected debits apply. - Accepted methods for certain other invoices (extracurricular activities, holiday camps, trips, registration and re-registration fees): cheque, credit card or debit card (American Express is not accepted for card payments in these cases). Summary - Annual tuition for 2025/2026 ranges by age group from EUR 20,595 (Early years) up to EUR 31,260 (Grades 9–12). Per-term amounts (three-term billing) are the annual figure divided by three as given above. Mandatory up-front items for new students include the Application Fee (EUR 750), Registration Fee (EUR 2,800), Deposit (EUR 4,000) and the School Development Fund for new students (EUR 3,750). Optional services such as hot lunch, shuttle and learning support are charged in addition to tuition. Payment options include SEPA direct debit and bank transfer, with card/cheque accepted for selected activity invoices; the school's terms specify invoicing, proration for mid-year starts, refund rules, and penalties for late/non-payment.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements 4 historic boarding houses; 5- to 7-day boarding options; residents aged 11 to 18; boarding students can enroll in any academic programme and are welcome on campus starting in Collège or IB MYP; located in Maisons-Laffitte, about 20 minutes by train from Paris; the Responsible Living Status (RLS) leadership programme encourages responsible enjoyment of surroundings; Boarding Parents accompany and care for students.	Boarding arrangements No boarding; day school; ICS Paris does not offer boarding facilities or host family placement services.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform is required; cost 150 €.	Uniform requirement Students are required to wear a uniform at all times on campus, nearby areas, and on outings. Uniform rules apply to all students; religious symbols or clothing that overtly indicate a religious affiliation are not allowed. Clothing must be in good condition, fit properly, and not reveal undergarments; uniforms must be purchased from the official ICS Paris uniform shop.
Food options	Food options Day-Student Lunch Options: Cafeteria Hot Lunch 1,855 €; Supervised Lunch-Box MYP1-4 808 €; Lunch-Box MYP5, DP1-2 No charge.	Food options Hot Lunch Service provides balanced meals prepared in accordance with the French Ministry of Health guidelines. Each meal includes a starter, main course, cheese, bread, and fruit/dessert; the menu changes daily. Primary students eat in designated canteen spaces; Secondary students may bring lunch or sign up for the Hot Lunch Service, and may leave school at lunchtime with parental permission. The annual cost is 2865€ per child and lunch supervision is included for Nursery to Grade 5; fees are prorated for mid-year entrants.
House system	House system 4 historic boarding houses in Maisons-Laffitte.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is part of the Ermitage Education Group, a network of five international schools; the group began in 1941 as a family-founded institution; it serves nearly 2,000 day and boarding students aged 3 to 18 and offers International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge IGCSEs, and French curriculum programmes.	Governance and ownership The school is a private, co-educational international school. It is a proud member of Globeducate and an IB World School.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school has two programme tracks: French Bilingual Programmes and International Programmes. The French Bilingual Programmes are accredited by the Ministry of National Education from Pre-K to 12. The International Programmes are IB World School programmes with classes primarily in English, and the International Primary Programme begins in Grade 1 and continues through Grade 12 with IB Programmes.	Curriculum details International Baccalaureate (IB) Curriculum for 3–19 year-olds taught in English. ICS Paris is an IB World School offering a continuum from Early Education through the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). Educational stages include Early Education (Preschool), Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Pre-IB/IGCSE, and IBDP. Accreditation includes IB Diploma Programme (accreditation since 2003), IBMYP (accreditation since 2023), and IBPYP (accreditation since 2023). The IB Learner Profile is central, aiming to develop inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced, and reflective learners. The curriculum is complemented by a wide range of activities outside the classroom, including student councils, Model United Nations, Eco-Schools, and Globeducate opportunities.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results The school has a 100% pass rate on the French Baccalaureate with honors. IB students are placed in their first-choice universities.	Exam results IB Diploma results show strong performance with top scores typically in the early 40s and DP averages in the low- to mid-30s. In 2025, the top DP score was 41/45 with an average DP score of 32.7 (global average 30.58). In 2024 the top DP score was 44/45 with an average of 33.8, and 2023 top 42/45 with an average of 32.0. IGCSE results are published annually; in 2025, 30 students sat for IGCSE exams.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression 40% of University Destinations are ranked among the Top 100 Universities in the World (Times Higher Education ranking, 2022). Graduates have attended institutions including Yale University, McGill University, Imperial College London, Oxford University, Sorbonne University, ESSEC, HEC Paris, London School of Economics, University of Toronto, and others.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school fosters empathy, compassion, and integrity among students and staff. It emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and mutual respect to prepare students to become engaged global citizens. It supports open-mindedness and curiosity, and encourages students to express their creativity and think critically. The IB and bilingual programmes situate social-emotional learning within diverse, international experiences and service opportunities.	Social & emotional learning ICS Paris delivers a Wellbeing program that prioritises social and emotional learning. Primary students participate in an eight-week Emotional Intelligence (EI) programme to understand themselves, connect with others, and navigate daily challenges with confidence. The programme emphasises understanding emotions, recognising feelings in others, and managing relationships as essential to learning and personal growth. A Designated Safeguarding Lead and Student Support Coordinator, Mrs Kamath, launched the initial assembly for Grades 1–3 to introduce EI concepts. Through this initiative, students develop empathy, resilience, and self-awareness.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school has an Inclusion Policy as part of IB Middle Years and Diploma Programme policies.	Special educational needs (SEN) ICS Paris offers a Learning Support Programme that embraces learner diversity and provides mild to moderate academic support. The Student Support Coordinator directly supervises the programme and works with teachers to ensure student success. Support is delivered at two levels: Pairing Support (small groups, up to two sessions weekly) and Individual Support (one-to-one, up to two sessions weekly), with inclusive arrangements and curricular modifications where needed. The programme may include literacy, maths, study and organizational skills, and social skills; external providers such as speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists may work on campus. An Individual Learning Plan (ILP) is created for students receiving support, with ILP meetings in October, February and June; psycho-educational evaluations may be requested to guide instruction.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Classes are primarily in English, and Ermitage is an IB World School with an English-language curriculum. The school offers bilingual or 100% English-speaking education for students aged 3 to 18.	English as an additional language English is the language of instruction at ICS Paris, and the BML (Bilingual and Multilingual Learners) programme provides personalised English development support. ICS Paris is a BML Smart Nursery and a BML Smart School, with staff trained to support bilingual and multilingual learners. The programme respects home languages and provides a safe space to make mistakes while building English literacy so students can participate in class with confidence. Placement tests in English, French, and Math are used during admissions to determine appropriate language levels. BML support is included in tuition and takes place during the school day for Grade 1 to Grade 10; in Primary, the programme is intensive with targeted literacy and subject-support adaptations, while in Secondary, language acquisition is tailored to help multilingual students access the IB curriculum.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is a central focus; learning values physical, emotional and social health to help students and staff feel safe and supported, build self-esteem, resilience and ambition.	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is a core focus at ICS Paris, nurturing students academically, socially, and emotionally. The EI-based approach supports mental wellbeing by building empathy, resilience, and self-awareness. The initiative is led by the Designated Safeguarding Lead and Student Support Coordinator and is integrated with the school's safeguarding and wellbeing efforts. This comprehensive approach helps students understand themselves, relate to others, and navigate everyday challenges with confidence.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The Ermitage Team ensures students are happy and safe in and outside of the classroom.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is a central pillar of ICS Paris' practice. A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) oversees safeguarding and student welfare, with Mrs Kamath occupying the DSL role. The safeguarding programme is integrated with wellbeing initiatives and student support services. Recruitment and employment policies require safeguarding checks and adherence to Safeguarding and Child Protection Protocols to ensure a safe environment for all students. The school also maintains a formal safeguarding framework as part of its ongoing commitment to child protection.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Ermitage Paris sits on a historic campus in Maisons-Laffitte, set within a green park space. The campus spans 740 acres of green park space and includes five classroom sites, each with character. There are four boarding houses in historic French homes. The campus is about 20 minutes by train from Paris, providing a safe, welcoming environment for study and community life.	Facilities overview ICS Paris is an IB World School in the heart of Paris offering an inquiry-based IB curriculum taught in English and enriched by French language and culture. It features an Innovation Centre for creative projects and an innovative STEAM approach. It uses a BML Smart School to support language learning. The school is part of the Globeducate network and hosts students from over 70 countries, providing global academic and exchange opportunities. The campus is located at 23 rue de Cronstadt, 75015 Paris, near Metro Convention, and emphasizes a multinational, collaborative learning environment.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Equestrian facilities are a key feature of the campus, with premium stables and riding facilities. Jumping Maisons-Laffitte includes a 100m x 50m competition arena, a 35m x 70m relaxation arena, a 60m x 20m dressage arena, a 70m x 40m grass working arena, and a cross-country obstacle. Stables provide space for 60+ horses and an 800 m² indoor arena. In addition to equestrian facilities, Ermitage offers a broad sports programme including football, badminton, basketball, volleyball, swimming, golf, table tennis and more.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Five classroom sites, each with character. The campus supports both French bilingual and IB programmes. The school is accredited by the French Ministry of National Education from Pre-K to 12th grade. The IB and French bilingual pathways are delivered on campus in historic buildings.	Academic facilities The school provides IB World School programs from early education through high school, with all subjects taught in English in the early years and primary, and regular French instruction offered at five proficiency levels. The middle school follows the MYP, and the high school offers the IB Diploma Programme. An Innovation Centre supports creative projects and STEAM, and language learning is supported through the BML Smart School platform. The Globeducate network provides additional global opportunities.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities are a core part of the Ermitage experience. Ermitage Academy offers language, sports and creative activities every Wednesday for CE1 to CM2, with language classes also open to non-Enrollee students. After-school sessions provide academic support or sporting activities, and lunchtime activities include dance, judo, cooking, sewing or music. Kids Club operates Wednesday afternoons with a tailored programme for younger students. Older students can join clubs such as chess, the 24 Club, Kangaroo Club, and Model United Nations (MUN), along with Round Square in Action (RSIA). A broad Sport for Everyone programme provides opportunities across football, badminton, basketball, volleyball, horse riding, dance, athletics, swimming, golf, table tennis and more.	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities include sports such as Wednesday activities at Aquaboulevard, private music and private French lessons, chess, robotics, drama, public speaking, language academy, and storytelling, with after-school care available. Activities run on weekday afternoons with structured cycles and occasional off-site venues, providing a broad range of enrichment experiences.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Ermitage was founded in 1941 by Anne-Marie Thommeret during WWII; the first school was destroyed by Allied bombing targeting the railroad, and students relocated within Maisons-Laffitte. In the 1980s, under Christopher Hunter, bilingual education and internationalism were established, offering a French curriculum with enhanced English instruction. The International Option of the French Baccalaureate began in 2003, and Round Square membership followed in 2005; the IB Diploma Programme was introduced in 2009. By 2012, the school achieved a 100% pass rate on the French Bac and the IB DP, and in 2020 earned 24 IBO distinctions following the second IB evaluation. In 2019, ownership changed to Laffitte Education and Benjamin Hunter became Head of School, continuing the school's international focus.	History ICS Paris was formerly known as EIB - The Victor Hugo School. It is a private international school in Paris. It is an IB World School offering the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP) and a curriculum taught in English with immersion in French language and culture. To support new students, intensive English lessons and learning support are provided on a case-by-case basis.
Community	Community Ermitage is a close-knit community that includes parents, teachers, management, and current and former students, with mutual aid and informational resources such as the Amicale Parents Association. Members participate in community events throughout the school year, including a Christmas market, Halloween, International Day, prom, a dance contest, and the IB graduation ceremony. The community also supports students via a Buddy System and an Orientation Program to welcome new students, and uses tools like ManageBac and EcoleDirecte to stay connected. Alumni stay connected through reunions and anniversary celebrations, with Round Square opportunities offering international trips, student exchanges and service projects.	Community ICS Paris has an inclusive international community with students and staff from over 70 nationalities. The school is part of the Globeducate network and participates in international events through Globeducate. Annual events include International Food and Culture Day celebrating cultural diversity with dishes from many countries and a country parade. The school earned Eco-School status in June, reflecting sustainability initiatives.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Amicale Parents Association serves the Ermitage community by providing mutual aid and informational resources to families. It organizes many festive events throughout the year and helps coordinate welcoming activities for new families (e.g., Welcome Picnic and Parents' BBQ). Parents participate in parent-student conferences and can act as ambassadors for new families. The association supports the school's community by distributing resources, coordinating with school administration, and fostering a sense of belonging among families. Alumni and parents stay connected through the Amicale via reunions and networking opportunities, and the association collaborates with Round Square activities when appropriate.	Parent teacher association There is a Parents Association. For information and the General Assembly email communication@icsparis.fr. The school policies list a Parents Association and the Témoignages page references the Association de parents.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Extracurricular activities are a bubble of discovery where students explore, create, and grow beyond the classroom. They nurture curiosity, teamwork, and personal reflection while offering balanced opportunities for study, sports, arts, and community engagement. For younger students, every Wednesday Ermitage Academy provides foreign language classes, sports, and creative activities, with language classes also open to non-enrolled students. Revision courses are offered during school holidays to support learning.	Academic & intellectual The school has Chess as an after‑school activity for Primary (Mondays 4:15–5:15 PM) and for Secondary (Thursdays 4:15–5:15 PM). The school has Robotics after‑school sessions for Primary (Wednesdays 1:15–3:15 PM) and for Secondary (Wednesdays 1:15–3:15 PM and Fridays 4:15–5:15 PM). The school has Scientific Experiments for Primary (Tuesdays 4:15–5:15 PM). The school has Language Academy after‑school language lessons in French, Russian, Portuguese, Spanish and Arabic, with English language support (Thursdays 4:15–5:15 PM).
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Lunchtime activities include dance, judo, cooking, sewing, and music lessons. Ermitage Kids Club opens on Wednesday afternoons with a tailor-made program for CP to CM2, featuring creative, artistic and sporting activities. The extracurricular program provides a range of creative outlets across the school to engage students in the arts.	Arts & creative The school has Private Music Lessons on Wednesdays 1:15–4:15 PM in half‑hour slots with Conservatoire teachers. The school has Drama on Tuesdays 4:15–5:15 PM. The school has Storytelling on Wednesdays 1:15–4:15 PM. The school has Private French Lessons on Wednesdays 1:15–4:15 PM.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Foreign language classes are held on Wednesdays for CE1 to CM2, and language classes are open to students who are not enrolled at Ermitage. The Pre-K and Primary programs offer a truly bilingual environment in French and English. The Round Square in Action programme and the MUN club promote international understanding and cultural exchange.	Cultural & language The school has Language Academy offering group lessons in French, Russian, Portuguese, Spanish and Arabic, with other languages available on request and extra English support. The school has French Mercredi Programme on Wednesdays 1:15–4:15 PM, immersing children in activities conducted in French. The school is a BML SMART school, supporting bilingual and multilingual learners by maintaining and developing their home languages.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Middle school students can join the chess club, the 24 Club with the aim of opening up to voluntary work, and the Kangaroo Club to prepare for this competition. The MUN club provides a United Nations simulation that develops diplomacy and public speaking. Students have access to a variety of clubs and activities that support social engagement and personal interests.	Social & hobbies The school has Chess as an after‑school activity for Primary (Mondays 4:15–5:15 PM) and Secondary (Thursdays 4:15–5:15 PM). The school has Modern Dance on Tuesdays 4:15–5:15 PM. The school has Storytelling on Wednesdays 1:15–4:15 PM. The school has Robotics after‑school sessions on Wednesdays 1:15–3:15 PM for Primary and on Wednesdays 1:15–3:15 PM and Fridays 4:15–5:15 PM for Secondary.
Community & service	Community & service Round Square in Action (RSIA) is a programme that encourages values-based activities such as community service, leadership, democracy, environmental responsibility and international understanding, achievable through sporting, artistic or service activities. The RSIA programme is supported by partnerships with local and international organisations to enable service opportunities. The 24 Club opens up voluntary work and community involvement for students.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional RSIA encourages leadership and social responsibility through values-based activities. The MUN club develops diplomacy, public speaking, and an understanding of global issues. The 24 Club promotes involvement in voluntary work and community projects, fostering leadership skills among students.	Leadership & professional The school has Public Speaking after‑school for Middle and High School on Thursdays 4:15–5:15 PM to develop confidence and persuasive communication. The school has Drama after‑school on Tuesdays 4:15–5:15 PM, fostering expression and collaboration. The school has Language Academy supporting bilingual and multilingual learners to develop language skills relevant to professional communication.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is a core value, with opportunities to participate in football, badminton, basketball, volleyball, horse riding, dance, athletics, swimming, golf, table tennis and more. Students aged 11 to 19 compete locally and in international contexts, including a Round Square basketball tournament in Denmark. Sports are integrated into lunch breaks and after-school programs to support physical health and well-being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school has Modern Dance on Tuesdays 4:15–5:15 PM. The school has Gymnastics offerings that help build strength, coordination, balance and confidence. The school has Self‑defence (Judo) on Fridays 4:15–5:15 PM, emphasizing respect, discipline and physical engagement. The school has Sports Wednesday at Aquaboulevard with a structured cycle of activities and professional instructors to provide varied athletic experiences.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the working language of instruction in the IB programmes at Ermitage, and French is the language of our host country. Students may also develop their Home Language. English Language Acquisition (EAL) support is available, including EAL Intensive or EAL Enhancement programs. In Pre-K to 12, the environment is bilingual in French and English.	Language provision ICS Paris IB curriculum is taught in English at all stages. French is taught as a second language, with regular French classes for all students. From Grade 1, mother-tongue Japanese and Korean are supported through after-school language classes. From Grade 6, Spanish is available as an additional language, Mandarin is offered as a third language for bilingual/multilingual learners in the MYP, and the Diploma Programme includes French courses with the option to pursue a bilingual IB Diploma.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school offers two programmes: the French Bilingual School and the International Programmes in English. The French Bilingual School provides instruction in French and English from Pre-K through Terminale (12th grade) and is accredited by the National Ministry of Education. The International Programme is an IB World School with classes primarily in English, starting with the International Primary Programme in Grade 1 through Grade 12. The school offers a choice between the two programmes.	Bilingual teaching ICS Paris has a BML (Bilingual and Multilingual Learners) programme to help students access the curriculum using their mother tongue, while also providing academic English support. Personalised BML support is included in tuition for Grades 1-9 and delivered during the school day. All students have regular French classes as a second language. From Grade 6, students can study Mandarin or Spanish as a third language in the MYP.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Ermitage provides a bilingual environment in French and English across Pre-K to 12. Bilingual holiday camps for ages 4-11 offer total immersion in French and English. Bilingual summer camps near Paris offer immersion in French or English with daily language classes for ages 4-11 and 10-16. Activities are designed to immerse children in language through play, arts, sports and cooking.	Immersion programs Early Years is fully immersive, with language and content developing together through daily classroom experiences. From Grade 1, mother-tongue Japanese and Korean are supported through dedicated after-school classes. In the MYP, bilingual and multilingual learners may choose Mandarin or Spanish as a third language.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards Ermitage Paris ranked 3rd IB School in France (as claimed on the site).	Awards UNESCO Associated School – part of UNESCO's Associated School network promoting peace, human rights, sustainable development and intercultural dialogue through education; Edexcel qualifications – ICS Paris has been part of Edexcel since 2014, offering GCSEs, A levels and international GCSEs and related qualifications.
Accreditations	Accreditations The school is accredited by the Ministère de l'Éducation Nationale (French Ministry of National Education) from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade. The school is associated with NEASC Foundation Standards. The school is a member of Round Square, ECIS, and UNESCO associations.	Accreditations IB World School – authorization from the International Baccalaureate Organization to offer the IBDP, IBMYP and IBPYP programmes.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Inquire. Ermitage offers a diverse range of programs from pre-K to secondary school, which vary in language of instruction, pedagogy and tuition. Inquire to receive general information about the programs you would like to learn more about and to receive guidance in choosing the right path for your child. 2. Apply. When you submit an application for your child, you will be guided through the admissions process, step by step. There are two distinct diploma paths, each with their own application process, so choose the appropriate form. If you begin an application and later choose to consider a different program, this can be coordinated by the team. 3. Admissions procedure. Ermitage is selective and ensures it is right for each child. Admissions and Academic staff review each application before moving it forward. Following an initial review, the child may be invited to attend an interview, in person or online for convenience. Depending on the section, the child may be asked to sit level papers in certain subjects to determine the appropriate level and to verify that admissions criteria are met. 4. Responses. The International Primary Programme and the International Baccalaureate have rolling admissions and mid-year entries are possible. Offers are made throughout the year. For Primary, Middle School, and the Lycée, offers for PS and 6e are issued from October, with other grade offers issued after re-enrolment in January/February. After receiving a school place offer, there is a 7-day window to complete the contract and pay the tuition deposit and enrolment fee.	Admissions Step 1: Submit Online Application Form. Begin the process by filling out the online application form. ICS Paris has a rolling admissions policy, accepting students throughout the year depending on space, and it is recommended to start the process in November for the following September, or at least two months before joining during the school year. Prepare documents: a student photo, a copy of the student's government-issued ID, and official grades/report cards from the last three years; English test results are required for Grade 9 and above; language certificates if applicable. An application fee of 750€ is paid online to complete the Online Application Form. Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents. After your form and the application fee are received, the application is presented to the Admissions Committee and the decision typically takes 2–3 weeks, depending on any additional documents requested. The admissions team may request further academic documents or an interview. Step 3: Acceptance. If accepted, an official letter of acceptance is sent via email. Step 4: Confirm the Enrolment. A DocuSign link is sent to complete enrollment documents, including the terms of payment, a medical form, a school trip form, and an image authorization form. If education is funded directly, the registration fee and deposit are due to hold the place.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships No scholarships or financial aid are offered; discounts are available for families with at least three children enrolled.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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