école primaire supérieure

The term "école primaire supérieure" refers to "higher primary schools" in France. These institutions were developed in the 19th century to provide an education beyond what primary schools offered, for students who were not pursuing university studies. The curriculum was more advanced than primary schools, and students typically stayed until age 16. These schools prepared students for business and white-collar jobs, though generally at a lower level than those who attended lycées (secondary schools preparing for university). The écoles primaires supérieures played a role in maintaining social class distinctions, as students from lycées had higher social and occupational prestige. France also has grandes écoles, which are specialized higher learning institutions, distinct from universities, that train individuals for specific high-level careers.12