Only three institutions in France are authorized by the Ministry of Culture to award the prestigious National Higher Professional Diploma for Circus Artists, which confers the degree of a bachelor's degree.



This intermediate level includes establishments approved to prepare for the entrance exams of the major national schools, or to award the professional title of Circus and Movement Artist (ACM).







The foundation of education in France. These leisure facilities guarantee qualified supervision (BPJEPS, DE) for all audiences, from early childhood.

Écol'ôCirc is a non-profit circus school located in Estipouy, near Mirande in the Gers region . Its project goes beyond the framework of traditional circus arts instruction: the association defines itself as an educational space where school meets circus , based on play, movement, cooperation, kindness, knowledge sharing and ecological awareness.
In the spirit of popular education , Ecol'ôCirc aims to create connections between generations and enable everyone to participate, learn, and share their knowledge. The association places great importance on respect for the body, personal and collective development, and what it calls "human ecology," integrating environmental concerns into its educational program.
For the 2026-2027 season, the school is offering a circus workshop for 6-14 year olds , allowing children to discover and practice circus arts in a fun and group setting. Parent-child sessions for 3-5 year olds are also organized occasionally, offering younger children a first taste of the circus accompanied by an adult.
The Ecol'ôCirc project also embraces other physical and artistic practices. The program includes pole dancing for teenagers and adults , theater and theatrical expression , as well as a fitness workshop for those over 55. The aim is to provide a space where different generations and different practices can come together.
Beyond weekly meetings, the association organizes occasional activities , including workshops and performances, as well as events more focused on socializing and sharing: DIY and repair café, language café, board games, and creative activities . These events are an integral part of the association's community education project and make Ecol'ôCirc a place to live as much as a space for artistic practice.
Students are also given the opportunity to present their work during shows and demonstrations , as shown by the events and open days organized by the association.



The Lyon Circus School (ECL) , located within the MJC Ménival in Lyon's 5th arrondissement , is a place for learning, creating, and discovering circus arts. It welcomes over 400 students—children, teenagers, and adults —through weekly classes, workshops, and advanced training programs. Acrobatics, juggling, object balancing, aerial disciplines, partner acrobatics, and artistic expression are taught within a community-based educational approach that emphasizes creativity, personal growth, and group practice. The ECL also offers preparatory training for higher education in circus arts , hosts artists, and develops shows, residencies, and cultural initiatives throughout the Lyon area.







