Students gather for protest

Starting at 12:00, groups of high school students began to gather at the Charles-de-Gaulle esplanade in Rennes on Tuesday, October 13. This event was part of a nationwide movement against recent changes to the French high school system.

Léna's perspective

Léna, a high school student in her final year, said she was coming for the fourth time. "My brother went through the high school reform and now it's my turn. I find it unacceptable that my evaluations determine my higher education starting this year," she said.

Festive yet determined atmosphere

The procession gradually formed in a festive but determined atmosphere. On the intersyndical truck, high school students danced to "La Boulette" by Diam's. At 1:00 p.m., two large banners took the lead of the procession under the flashes of photographers.

Procession moves through Rennes

At a fairly brisk pace, the procession of 10,000 people, according to the unions, set off towards the Boulevard de la Liberté. The Rennes high schools were represented among the banners: Chateaubriand, Descartes, Zola, as well as the University of Rennes and the agricultural school.

Banners highlight concerns

There were many banners, often carefully made and creative. "Proud of our high school students!" could be read on one held by a teacher. "Invest in education, give hope to youth," said another. One thing is certain: the demands converge and point out the shortcomings of the French education system.

Route changes and safety measures

To ensure the safety of the demonstrators, the unions and the LDH had set up a perimeter around the procession. Arriving at the quays of the Vilaine, the head of the procession changed its route and turned right. Quickly stopped by a water cannon and gendarme columns, the long procession finally resumed the planned route.

Student reflections and participation

Elsa, a student in her final year, said she would come back after the holidays. "I had never demonstrated before. I don't understand why no one takes our demands into account," she said. Many parents were also visible at the end of the procession.