Effective Education Physique et Sportive (EPS): Teaching, Developing Skills, and Assessing School Performance

The French Ministry of Education has announced a new recruitment initiative for a Professor of Physical Education and Sport (EPS) position, with the job posting numbered 211JXMV. The role, open to both men and women (H/F), requires candidates to teach, develop students’ physical and motor skills, and create educational evaluation tools aligned with national curriculum standards.

According to the job posting, the EPS professor will be responsible for designing physical education programs, assessing student progress, and fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment. The position emphasizes the development of competencies in areas such as sports techniques, health education, and teamwork, as outlined in the official recruitment document.

The recruitment follows a broader trend in France to strengthen physical education curricula amid growing concerns about student sedentary lifestyles and declining physical fitness levels. A 2025 report by the French Institute for Health Surveillance highlighted that only 35% of secondary school students meet the recommended daily physical activity guidelines, prompting educational authorities to prioritize EPS in school reforms.

Candidates for the EPS professor role must hold a master’s degree in physical education or a related field, along with a valid teaching certification (CAPES or agrégation). The position is part of a public-sector recruitment drive aimed at addressing staffing shortages in state-run schools, particularly in rural and underserved regions. Applications are due by August 15, 2026, and candidates will undergo a multi-stage evaluation process, including a written exam and a practical teaching demonstration.

The French Ministry of Education declined to comment on the specific reasons for the recruitment but stated in a press release that “EPS remains a cornerstone of holistic education, equipping students with the physical and psychological tools to thrive in an increasingly complex world.”

This announcement aligns with the Ministry’s 2024-2027 strategic plan, which includes expanding access to sports facilities and integrating technology into physical education programs. The plan also seeks to train 5,000 additional EPS teachers by 2027, a goal supported by a €200 million funding allocation from the European Union’s Social Fund.

While the job posting does not specify the exact location of the position, EPS professors in France typically work in public secondary schools (lycées) and are assigned based on regional needs. The role carries a starting salary of approximately €3,200 per month, plus benefits such as housing allowances and professional development grants.

The recruitment has drawn interest from both recent graduates and experienced educators, with over 1,200 applications already received for similar positions in 2026. Industry analysts note that the demand for EPS professionals reflects a shift in educational priorities toward wellness and lifelong physical activity.

“Physical education is no longer just about sports—it’s about building resilience, discipline, and social skills,” said Marie Lefevre, a former EPS teacher and current education policy advisor. “The Ministry’s focus on this area is a positive step toward addressing long-term public health challenges.”

The outcome of this recruitment will be closely watched as it could set a precedent for future hiring in the sector. With the French government committed to increasing physical education hours in schools by 2027, the EPS professor role is expected to play a critical role in shaping the country’s approach to student well-being.