At the initiative of Education Minister Valérie Glatigny, the Government of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation has decided to raise the pass thresholds for external certifying exams (CEB, CE1D and CESS). This reform marks an important step for our education system: the return of rigour and effort.
Specifically, from the 2026-2027 school year, pass thresholds will be harmonised at 60% for the CE1D and CESS certifying exams. For the CEB, pupils will need to score at least 50% in each subject (maths, French and general studies) and an overall average of 60%. The aim is to preserve the value of diplomas so that they genuinely certify mastered skills.
This reform reflects a profoundly liberal and emancipatory vision of school. Demanding more is neither about exclusion nor punishment; on the contrary, it means trusting pupils, recognising their capacity to improve, and giving them clear benchmarks for success. As with the “décret paysage” in higher education, clear and demanding rules encourage effort, self-improvement and, ultimately, success.
Raising the pass thresholds goes hand in hand with a concrete strengthening of support mechanisms for success. From primary school onwards, additional resources are being invested in personalised support, particularly in Years 3, 4 and 6, to help pupils who need it. The introduction of the CLE test at the start of Year 4 will also make it possible to detect difficulties in maths, reading and writing earlier, and to trigger personalised support where needed. Raising standards only makes sense if the school gives itself the means to guide every pupil towards success.
Raising the thresholds does not in any way call into question the central role of teachers. Class councils and school panels retain full autonomy to assess pupils' progress, taking into account their work over the whole year. Common standards go hand in hand with trust in pedagogical expertise.
Through this reform, the Mouvement Réformateur is championing a school that raises pupils up, builds responsibility and prepares them calmly for the next steps in their journey.