Healthcare shortages in French schools

Student protests in France have highlighted the lack of nurses and psychologists in schools, with students reporting insufficient support for their health and well-being. At Hénaff vocational high school in Bagnolet, which has 1,200 students, there has been no nurse since September 1, leaving students without medical assistance for injuries or illnesses.

Risks in vocational schools

At Hénaff, vocational students use dangerous tools like large saws and welding equipment, yet there is no medical staff to help in case of injury. Clara, an educational assistant (AED) hired recently, said the absence of a nurse was discovered on the first day of the school year, and the school had no nurse for four months last year.

Student experiences of neglect

Inès, nearly 18, said sick students often stay in class or sit in a corner because the environment is too noisy to lie down. One student on crutches must take the stairs to class because the elevator is out of service, showing how inadequate the school’s support systems are.

Nurses join student protests

The recruitment of nurses is a major demand in the student protests. The SNICS union, representing nurse counselors, says there are about 7,800 caregivers for 11.6 million students, or roughly one health professional for every 1,500 children. Nurses were prominent in demonstrations on October 13, showing their support for the students' cause.

Lack of medical training in schools

Marinette, an English teacher and union delegate at Hénaff, said she often calls emergency services for even minor injuries due to the lack of medical staff. Lorenzo, 17, recounted cutting off part of his finger, with a monitor applying a bandage too tightly, leading to infection and prolonged pain.

Limited first aid resources

Educational assistants, who are often on the front line, are frequently not trained in first aid. Raffia, an AED for four years, listed the contents of first aid kits as limited to bandages, antiseptic, adhesive tape, and sanitary pads, noting they lack Biafine for burns or the right to give Doliprane for stomach pain.

Overburdened support staff

Bilal, 17, a spokesperson for blockades at Paul Éluard high school, worries about handling emergencies like heart problems or asthma, given his school has 2,000 students and only one part-time nurse. In the 93 department, where many students come from precarious backgrounds, access to care is limited, and Kevin, an AED, described accompanying a student in severe psychological distress alone.

Low pay and staffing shortages

Lilas, a school nurse with 17 years of experience, noted that 17% of school health professionals are contractual, often earning minimum wage. The SNICS union is demanding 15,200 new jobs to ensure full-time nurses in every school. The government has only included 100 new positions in its 2027 budget, with the last additions dating back to 2022.

Government response and ongoing needs

The Ministry of National Education confirmed the creation of 300 additional jobs for psychologists, nurses, and social service assistants for the current school year. Lilas, however, emphasized that the main goal is to ensure every student can access a consultation when needed and receive attentive listening.