Centre Actif Bilingue
The Centre Actif Bilingue (CAB) is a multicultural, family-oriented international school located in Fontainebleau. Founded by parents from INSEAD in 1972, CAB initially started as a nursery and has since expanded to include elementary education, with both French-English and German programs for students from 2 ½ to 11 years old.
CAB prides itself on providing a caring, holistic, and structured education that fosters linguistic, cultural, and social growth. Today, CAB serves over 150 families from 20 nationalities, led by a dedicated team of 20 teachers and additional support staff.
Educational Philosophy and Bilingual Approach
CAB's educational philosophy is rooted in developing engaged, confident, and adaptable global citizens. The school combines the foundational philosophies of Montessori, Freinet, and Decroly with the guiding vision of its first director, Danielle LeMaire.
CAB’s bilingual program emphasizes French as the primary language of instruction, complemented by English lessons for elementary students. English instruction progresses with the students' abilities and incorporates British and American language-learning methods. Native language teachers from various countries ensure that students build fluency in both languages.
Learning Environment and Curriculum
At the nursery level, CAB encourages hands-on learning, small-group socialization, and early language development in English, French, and German. For elementary students, CAB follows the French national curriculum, emphasizing active, skills-based learning.
The program encourages critical thinking, independent inquiry, and effective communication, with English lessons focusing on reading comprehension, grammar, and creative projects. Additionally, non-French-speaking students receive four hours of French as a Second Language per week to support integration into the full curriculum.
Connection with Nature and Environment
CAB’s location near to the Fontainebleau Forest allows for an emphasis on environmental education and outdoor activities. The school promotes ecological awareness and hands-on projects, such as gardening, composting, and biodiversity studies in their courtyard.
CAB students participate in initiatives like World Clean-Up Day and projects focusing on sustainable city planning. Weekly nature activities are part of the curriculum to build confidence, reduce stress, and encourage empathy for the environment.
Wellness and Physical Education
CAB integrates wellness and relaxation into the daily routine, emphasizing mental and physical balance. Weekly physical education classes introduce teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy habits through structured physical activities. Relaxation sessions, sometimes led by a yoga instructor, help students develop focus, body awareness, and stress-management skills.
The cafeteria offers nutritious, locally sourced meals with vegetarian options, reinforcing the importance of balanced health habits.
Creativity, Arts, and Music
Creativity is a central element of CAB’s approach. The school’s arts program includes activities like singing, painting, drama, and dance, which encourage self-expression, problem-solving, and teamwork. Regular music lessons help students explore rhythm, sound, and vocal expression, culminating in an end-of-year performance for parents. Drama and theater projects help children build confidence, communication skills, and imagination, rounding out a holistic approach to education that nurtures each child’s intellectual, social, and emotional growth.
Overall, CAB offers a nurturing, inclusive, and academically challenging environment where children can thrive and grow into thoughtful, resourceful global citizens.