Administrative Investigation into Beau Rameau School: Serious Failings Identified and Immediate Actions

Inspection Uncovers Critical Failures
On Thursday, April 10, Minister of Education, Élisabeth Borne, announced the launch of an administrative investigation into the private Catholic institution Beau Rameau, formerly known as Notre-Dame de Bétharram, following the release of an inspection report conducted in March. The inspection, commissioned by the Bordeaux rectorate, revealed several serious “failings” regarding the safety and well-being of the students.

Unacceptable Behavior Reported by Students
The report highlighted testimonies from students who reported “hurtful and humiliating remarks,” repeated mockery, and degrading behavior from two teachers. These actions, deemed “unacceptable” by the minister, led to a formal warning to the institution, along with a requirement to ensure compliance with critical issues, particularly the implementation of procedures to report violence.

In addition to the failings concerning child protection, the inspection stressed the need for better internal organization to prevent and manage violence. It was also noted that the ongoing administrative investigation focuses on the current situation at the school and not on the historical cases of physical and sexual abuse, which have marked the institution for decades.

François Bayrou’s Controversial Role and Political Tensions
The Beau Rameau scandal continues to stir controversy, particularly concerning François Bayrou, the current Prime Minister, who served as Minister of Education from 1993 to 1997. The school was attended by several of his children, and his wife taught catechism there. While he is accused by some political parties of concealing information about the abuse, François Bayrou has firmly denied these allegations. The controversy has escalated with a series of parliamentary hearings that contradict his statements, further fueling a crisis that could have political repercussions.