The CRCT (leave of absence for research in a given field or to turn to a new field) is the leave of absence taken by teacher-researchers for training purposes. For six months to one year, they are freed from their teaching responsibilities so that they can concentrate exclusively on research. Institutions of higher education also refer to CRCTs as congés sabbatiques (sabbaticals).

Organisational Aspects

Conditions required

Only permanent teacher-researchers may take a CRCT. They are eligible to take a one-year CRCT after six years of activity or secondment. Teacher-researchers returning from maternity leave or parental leave can also benefit from this leave of absence, upon request. The leave of absence for research in a given field or to convert to a new field is granted by the president or director of the institution or after consultation with the institution’s scientific council, or upon the proposal of the relevant sections of the national Council of universities to which the teacher-researcher reports.

Duration of CRCTs

CRCTs last from six months to one year.

At the end of their CRCT, teacher-researchers must submit to the president of the university or director of the establishment a report on their activities during this period. The report is transmitted to the scientific council and to the National council of universities, when the CRCT was granted based on its proposal.

Incentives for Participation in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Activities

Participation in on-going training activities is voluntary. Yet the provided systems are designed to encourage those teachers-researchers who so desire to take advantage of them.