Édmond Demolins was a pioneering sociologist, not a career schoolmaster. He founded École des Roches in 1899 believing passionately that education should prepare students for the real world — developing character, resilience, and independence alongside academic rigour. Radical for the time. Proven over 125 years.
Our school
Tradition Reimagined
For more than 125 years, École des Roches has inspired students to excel academically, grow personally, and thrive in a global community. Today, École des Roches begins a new chapter where we unite tradition with innovation to prepare students for the future.
Welcome to École des Roches.
International Boarding School — founded 1899
Peter T. Howe
Head of School, École des Roches
Centuries of Excellence
Founded in 1899, École des Roches has educated generations of leaders and innovators. Our tradition of French academic excellence is enriched by a spirit of openness and internationalism, preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow.
125+ Years of excellence
Since 1899, we’ve prepared generations of leaders for top universities worldwide.
Global Alumni Network
10,000 Alumni across the globe.
50ha
Normandy Estate
The School
A Close-Knit Community
École des Roches is not just a boarding school — we are host to a multi-cultural community where dozens of languages are spoken. Students are curious about each other and the world around them. They learn values of tolerance, sensitivity, and resilience that prove invaluable at university and in future careers.
Community engagement: Student volunteers continue the tradition of visiting the elderly in the local retirement home, teaching computer skills, charitable work with local organisations and humanitarian societies.
Ready to take the next step?
Where the World’s Brightest Futures Begin
Whether you are considering International Baccalaureate, French Baccalaureate, Middle School, or French as a Foreign Language, our admissions team is here to guide you through every stage of the process.
50+ Nationalities
Global Alumni Network
Academic Excellence
Our Story
Esprit des Roches:
Founded in 1899 by the sociologist Edmond Demolins, École des Roches was the first ‘new school’ of France — an innovative approach to education seen as ahead of its time. Based on universal and deeply humanist values, we work with each student to promote their love of learning, awaken their intellectual curiosity, and develop them today to prepare for the rest of their lives.
1899
Founded
50
Hectares campus
6:1
Student/Teacher
Paris
1hr by train
50+
Nationalities
Heritage & History
Did You Know?
Select any year to uncover the story — and watch history come to life in colour.
1899
Founded
1911
Scouting
1912
First Pool
1940
WWII Evacuation
1944
Liberation
1968
Females Welcomed
Now
Today
A sociologist who believed education should be about real life, not just exams
1899
Among the first schools in France to embrace scouting
Just a few years after Baden-Powell ran his first scout camp, the movement took root at École des Roches. It wasn’t a fad — it was a natural fit for a school that already believed character was forged outside the classroom. Map-reading, knot-tying, teamwork under open skies. Skills for life, not just exams.
1911
The first swimming pool in any French school
Long before swimming made the national curriculum, École des Roches built a pool. The thinking was simple: physical confidence and water safety mattered as much as Latin verbs. Unheard of in 1912 — and quietly, completely typical of this school.
1912
When the war came, the school moved — but refused to close
As German forces advanced through Normandy, students and staff were evacuated south to Maslacq in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. The Verneuil campus fell under occupation. But teaching never stopped. Lessons continued in borrowed buildings, hundreds of miles from home. Education as quiet resistance.
1940
Freed from occupation, and growing again within years
With Normandy liberated, the school reclaimed its campus and reopened its doors. From 150 pupils in 1944 to 350 by 1948 — families across France and beyond wanted exactly the education the school had spent four years protecting. Resilience, in numbers.
1944
The first female students arrived — and changed the school forever
Sixty-nine years after the founding, École des Roches welcomed its first girls. A long-overdue moment, and the right one. Today young women shape every part of school life — sport, leadership, the classroom, the boarding houses. The Rocheux spirit, in full.
1968
125 years on - still preparing students for real life, not just exams
Today, École des Roches is home to students from over 50 countries, learning across six historic boarding houses on a 50-hectare Normandy campus. The IB and French Baccalaureate sit alongside more than thirty sports and creative pursuits.
Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions Answered
Choosing the right school is a big decision, and we know families want clarity before taking the next step. Our FAQs address the most common questions about admissions, academics, and boarding life — helping you feel confident in your choice.
What makes École des Roches unique?
École des Roches combines a long-standing educational heritage (founded in 1899) with a modern, internationally minded approach. Students benefit from a structured boarding environment, high academic standards, and a community designed to help them grow in confidence, independence, and character.
What languages are taught?
Choosing the right school is a big decision, and we know families want clarity before taking the next step. Our FAQs address the most common questions about admissions, academics, and boarding life — helping you feel confident in your choice.
What are the school’s core values?
Our community is guided by Think, Dare, Share & Care. These values shape daily life—encouraging intellectual curiosity, personal courage, collaboration, and empathy. They influence the way students learn, live together, and contribute to the wider school community.
What role do traditions play at École des Roches?
Traditions are central to the École des Roches experience. Celebrations, house events, and milestone moments bring students together across year groups, creating pride, connection, and lasting memories. These shared experiences strengthen community and help students feel genuinely part of something bigger.
How does boarding support student development?
Boarding life provides structure, wellbeing, and consistency. With clear routines, dedicated adult support, and a strong sense of community, students develop independence, responsibility, and resilience. It also creates a unique environment where friendships form quickly and students feel known, supported, and guided.
How can we experience the school before applying?
The best way is to schedule a visit or join an Open Day. You’ll be able to tour the campus, meet our team, and experience the atmosphere first-hand. Our admissions team can also answer questions and guide you toward the right pathway for your child.
Give Your Child the École des Roches Advantage
Take the Next Step Today
For more than 125 years, École des Roches has shaped ambitious, globally minded students into future leaders. With world-class programmes, a vibrant boarding life, and a truly international community, your child’s journey starts here.
