Grigny, an Educational Success Lab in France's Poorest City

The aim is to strengthen learning outcomes and civic engagement among 11-18-year-olds in Grigny, a city marked by high poverty and dropout rates. The project implements three core strands: project-based learning, where young people design solutions to local social and environmental issues using scientific methods and makerspaces; civic storytelling, which builds media literacy through podcasts and articles; and co-design of a new multicultural learning facility with a youth governance structure. A transition programme will test new engagement models for at-risk students, and an educator programme will train 150 staff in facilitation, problem-based learning, and green and digital competences. Action research, carried out with the city of Grigny and national partners, will inform local planning and contribute to broader policy learning. Expected results include improved engagement, smoother transitions, educator upskilling, and youth-produced projects and recommendations.