Back to books: Monaco schools tackle fractured attention with return to print

**Monaco Schools to Re‑Introduce Print Textbooks and Tighten Screen Use for 2026‑2027 Academic Year**

*Monaco – 2 September 2024* – The Principality’s education authorities announced a series of measures aimed at improving student concentration and academic performance for the 2026‑2027 school term. The press conference, held at Lycée Albert‑Ier, was led by Government Counselor and Minister of the Interior Lionel Beffre and Director of National Education, Youth and Sports Jean‑Philippe Vinci.

**Infrastructure and Learning Environment**

Beffre highlighted recent modernisation work across schools, stating that “students are returning to an establishment offering optimal working conditions.” He noted that upgrades included classroom digitalisation, sound‑proofing, fresh painting and renovated catering areas. Class‑size limits will be maintained to preserve educational quality.

**Academic Results**

According to Beffre, the latest baccalaureate results show a 99.5 % success rate, with 53 candidates receiving “Very Good” honours. All students enrolled in the BTS programme passed, and 95 % of terminal‑year pupils secured a place through the Parcoursup platform. An additional 24 % obtained admission to institutions outside the platform, including Oxford, Cambridge and elite French preparatory schools.

**Addressing Digital Distraction**

Vinci warned that the “fracturation of attention” caused by pervasive digital consumption poses a significant challenge for modern schooling. Citing historical reflections from philosopher Simone Veil, he described the phenomenon as a fragmentation of consciousness that can undermine learning.

To mitigate this, the government will provide paper manuals, funded by the state, to students in the 5th and 6th grades of secondary education. The manuals are intended to allow pupils to leave digital devices at home during school hours. Vinci argued that print materials “act as a technology of attention that aids deep memorisation and allows teachers to accurately track pupil engagement.” He referenced Sweden’s recent reduction in tablet use after a decline in PISA scores as an example of a broader international trend.

**Curriculum and Cultural Initiatives**

The upcoming academic year will involve 5,652 students across public and private schools, supported by 533 teachers and 375 non‑teaching staff. Emphasis will be placed on mathematics and science, building on participation in the Mathematics Olympiads, which attracted over 300 students last year. Guidance counselling will be expanded through individualized follow‑ups and partnerships with organisations such as the Junior Chamber of Commerce.

Cultural and musical education will be broadened. Early‑childhood music programmes developed with the Académie Rainier III will be extended from pilot classes to a universal programme, with professional musicians visiting schools weekly. Middle‑school schedules will allocate dedicated time for daily instrument practice.

**Facilities and Health Measures**

Following the inauguration of a swimming pool at Charles III College, construction has begun on a new pool at Saint‑Charles school, slated for completion in late 2026. A revised catering contract with SMR will increase portion sizes, expand on‑site preparation, and ensure that at least 40 % of food is organic or locally sourced.

Health inspections have identified a minor trace of legionella at Charles III College, which was addressed before the start of the term. Preparations are also underway for the upcoming Youth Games.

**Source**

Monaco

Article and image source: monacolife.net