French student protests resume as demands for better schools and more university places continue

French high school students have resumed protests after a two-week break, renewing demands for better school infrastructure, more teachers and increased access to higher education.

By 8:30 GMT on Nov 2, 41 high schools across France had been blockaded or affected by attempted blockades, according to the country's Education Ministry. The figure represented around 1% of the country's high schools and was significantly lower than the hundreds affected in the weeks before the break.

The protests, which began in the Paris suburbs in September, have spread to several parts of France. Students have raised concerns about deteriorating school buildings, teacher shortages, limited university places and what they consider an unfair higher education admissions system.

The demonstrations have also expanded beyond education, drawing support from trade unions and other groups protesting against the cost of living and wider public-service concerns.

Government proposals fail to satisfy student representatives

The French government announced a series of education measures last week in response to the protests. These include a proposal to cap class sizes at 28 in some high school classes, provide €4 billion in loans for school renovations and create 15,000 additional places in higher education.

The government has also proposed replacing Parcoursup, France's centralised university admissions platform, by 2028. The system has faced criticism from students who argue that it is not sufficiently transparent and creates unequal access to university places.

However, student representatives have said the measures do not adequately address their demands. They have questioned whether the proposed changes will resolve shortages in higher education places and improve conditions across all school years.

Education Minister Édouard Geffray said attempts to blockade schools remained limited on November 2. He also maintained that while students were entitled to protest, preventing access to schools was illegal.

Protests expected to continue

Student groups have indicated that demonstrations and school blockades will continue despite the government's announcements. University students have also joined the movement, with further action planned during the week.

A nationwide day of strikes and protests across public and private sectors is scheduled for November 5, according to reports.

The resumption of school blockades comes as the government faces pressure to address concerns over education funding, staffing and access to higher education, while ensuring that disruptions do not further affect students' lessons and examinations.