Widespread High School Protests in France Prompt 400 School Closures

High school students across France have been engaged in widespread protests for over a week, triggering significant disruptions in education and public order. As of October 2, 2026, nearly 400 high schools have been closed nationwide, with remote classes implemented to cope with the resulting educational interruptions.

The movement gained notable momentum at Le Corbusier high school in Aubervilliers, where students, backed by teachers, have been blocking the school for several days. Their grievances center on overloaded academic schedules, overcrowded classrooms, and heating issues within the institutions. The situation escalated on October 2, when students' blockage of the school led to tense clashes with law enforcement. Police employed tear gas without prior warning, impacting both students and journalists covering the events. Fortunately, the situation calmed later, and a general assembly was convened to plan next steps in the protest.

The protests extend beyond Aubervilliers; according to a detailed visual report by 'Libération,' over 900 demonstration actions have been recorded in all French departments since the movement's inception, highlighting the nationwide scale and intensity of the high school unrest.

Pauline Godart of France 24 has been providing on-the-ground reporting, underscoring the critical issues motivating the protests and the state's response. This movement represents one of the largest mobilizations of high school students in recent years, reflecting deep-seated discontent with educational conditions and infrastructure.

Authorities and student representatives continue dialogue channels amid the ongoing demonstrations, but as of now, the situation remains fluid with potential for further developments across the country.