A new sexual education program, Evars, will be launched in September 2025, following the Aubry law’s mandate for schools in France to provide sexual education. The program, developed through extensive feedback, will cover emotional, relational, and sexual topics tailored to students’ ages. Starting in kindergarten, students will learn about personal boundaries and gender equality, progressing to discussions on sexuality, consent, and sexual health in higher grades. This initiative aims to enhance awareness and understanding of these critical issues among young people.
Overview of the New Sexual Education Program
The topic of sexual education has sparked significant discussion, particularly in light of the Aubry law enacted on July 4, 2001. This law mandates that schools, colleges, and high schools provide at least three sessions of sexual education annually. A program was developed to meet this requirement but faced revisions due to feedback from teachers, families, unions, and political figures. After two years of adjustments, the revamped program for education on emotional, relational, and sexual life (Evars) was officially unveiled on January 29, 2025. Élisabeth Borne, the Minister of National Education since December 2024, emphasized the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives to address the controversies surrounding these essential sessions.
Implementation of Evars in Schools
Set to launch in September 2025, the Evars program will be implemented across all kindergartens, primary schools, colleges, and high schools in France. This initiative has been thoroughly evaluated by the Higher Council of Education (CSE), which includes representatives from various sectors such as teachers and parents. Despite the legal requirement for sexual education, it is reported that only 15% of students currently receive it, as highlighted by the General Inspectorate of Education, Sports, and Research in 2021. The recent modifications to the Evars program aim to ensure more frequent educational opportunities for children and teenagers. Élisabeth Borne stressed that Evars is ‘absolutely essential’ and will be tailored to suit the age of the students. In early education, the focus will be on emotional and relational life, while more complex topics regarding sexuality will be introduced gradually as students mature.
Beginning in kindergarten, students will explore concepts related to understanding their bodies, emotions, and the importance of respecting personal boundaries. They will also learn about gender equality and various family structures. Moreover, children will be encouraged to identify trusted adults in their lives, such as parents, teachers, and healthcare providers. In elementary school, the curriculum will cover bodily changes during puberty, preparing students for the transformations they will experience as they grow older. This early education is crucial, as it helps children recognize and navigate bullying, understand gender stereotypes, and learn about consent and digital safety.
In middle school, discussions will shift to include sexuality, with an emphasis on love, pleasure, and reproduction introduced by the 8th grade. The Evars sessions will also address diverse sexual orientations and prevention strategies for sexual violence. As students progress to high school, they will receive critical information about sexually transmitted infections and strategies for combating discrimination related to sex, gender identity, and sexual orientation. This comprehensive approach is designed to equip young people with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate their emotional and sexual lives safely and respectfully.