A wave of child abuse allegations has shaken a school in the French capital, prompting the French government to request assistance from British safeguarding experts. The Lycée Jean-Baptiste de la Salle in the 15th arrondissement has been at the centre of the crisis since last week, when parents raised concerns about the conduct of multiple staff members. French authorities have confirmed that at least 12 children have come forward with accounts of physical and emotional mistreatment.
The accusations range from excessive force in discipline to psychological intimidation. Headteacher Pierre Lefèvre was removed from his post on Wednesday pending a full investigation. The involvement of British experts from the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) underscores the gravity of the situation.
French Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer described the allegations as a "betrayal of trust" and said every resource would be used to ensure a thorough inquiry.
The school remains open under interim management, but many parents have kept their children at home. The scandal has reignited debate over teacher oversight and reporting mechanisms in France. The outcome of the investigation will be closely watched as a test of institutional accountability.
