Le Grand Bain Marseille (France)

The idea behind Le Grand Bain (The Big Bath) is simple: to pair primary school classes from different social backgrounds but within the proximity of one another, with the aim of creating long-term relationships between students who would have never met.

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The classes are twinned through considered choices and decisions by Le Grand Bain co-ordinators, and then meet throughout the year to learn about one another and to experience visiting different areas within Marseille. Le Grand Bain aims to break down social barriers and create acceptance and understanding between children through shared experiences and learning.

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Teachers in both classes are a key part of the process, as they support the children they teach to increase their curiosity around otherness, support and encourage cooperation between their children, and the children from the other class, and celebrate their final joint project together.

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The MCS Foundation began supporting Le Grand Bain in 2025 and recognises the innovative idea and purpose of Le Grand Bain. The MCS Foundation is committed to reducing discrimination and fostering acceptance and inclusion, and Le Grand Bain aligns strongly with these values through its work with primary school children, helping to build empathy, understanding, and respect for others while encouraging more inclusive attitudes from an early age.