ENSR: A Legacy of Educational Excellence and Innovation
For over a century, ENSR has stood as a beacon of academic innovation and cultural exchange. Founded in 1906 in the heart of Lausanne, Switzerland, ENSR has cultivated generations of global leaders, thinkers, and changemakers. Blending Swiss education traditions with cutting-edge approaches, ENSR is known worldwide for its commitment to student-centered learning, bilingual education, and its seamless integration of educational innovation.
From its founding story to its modern-day achievements, ENSR has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of students while staying true to its mission: nurturing happy, well-rounded learners prepared to succeed in an ever-changing world.
The Beginning of a New Educational Era
In the late 19th century, Europe experienced a shift in educational philosophy, moving away from rigid, authoritarian systems toward approaches that prioritised personal growth, cooperation, and creativity. This transformative period inspired Monsieur and Madame Vittoz to establish ENSR in 1906.
The founding story of ENSR is one of vision and determination. The Vittoz family believed in educating the whole child. Early ENSR students participated in activities like tending personal garden plots, a tradition that continues today as part of the school’s sustainability initiatives.
Student-Centered Learning
ENSR prioritised individuality and joy in learning, with flexible programmes encouraging curiosity, judgment, and initiative.
The motto was clear: “The School is the child’s home; they should feel happy here.”
By 1909, the school expanded with the construction of its first dedicated school buildings, a testament to its rapid success and enduring appeal.
Adapting Through Challenges: Innovation During Difficult Times
The school endured significant trials, including both World Wars and the Spanish flu pandemic. During these tumultuous times, ENSR’s leadership responded with bold, innovative solutions. For instance, when in-person classes were suspended, the school introduced a correspondence programme—an early precursor to today’s online learning methods.
The economic difficulties of the 1930s also tested the resilience of the school. Despite these struggles, ENSR remained steadfast in its mission to prioritize student welfare and continue delivering high-quality education.
Innovating to overcome these challenges highlights ENSR’s ingenuity and dedication to educating their students.
Cherished Traditions That Shape ENSR’s Identity
Introduced in 1948, The Grand Jeu is much more than just a school tradition—it’s a rite of passage for ENSR students. For many alumni, the lessons learned from The Grand Jeu—leadership, cooperation, and perseverance—extend far beyond their school years. It’s an annual highlight that embodies ENSR’s values of student-centered learning.
ENSR’s theatre programme is another cornerstone of its traditions. First introduced in the post-war years, the theatre initiative was designed to give students a platform to express themselves, build confidence, and explore their creative potential.
Through performances on stage, students discovered new talents, built confidence and developed teamwork skills—values that are still celebrated as part of the international school history of ENSR.
These cherished traditions reflect ENSR’s commitment to creating a holistic educational environment that nurtures both the mind and the spirit.
A Global Milestone: Introducing the International Baccalaureate
In the 1970s, ENSR made a bold and transformative decision: to introduce the International Baccalaureate (IB) alongside the Swiss Maturity programme. This move solidified ENSR’s reputation as a pioneer in educational innovation and as one of the leading institutions offering a truly global education in Switzerland.
By introducing the IB, ENSR not only enhanced its academic offerings but also strengthened its position as a leader in Swiss education and international school history.
A Multilingual Foundation for Global Success
At ENSR, bilingual education is more than just learning two languages—it’s a gateway to understanding and thriving in a multicultural world.
The Benefits of ENSR’s Multilingual Approach:
- Early Fluency
- Cultural Awareness
- Expanding Opportunities
What truly distinguishes ENSR is the personalised guidance given to students when selecting their language pathways. Whether they aspire to attend top Swiss universities or global institutions, ENSR ensures their linguistic skills align with their academic and career goals.
By combining a strong Swiss education foundation with international perspectives, ENSR equips students to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
Embracing the 21st Century with Innovation and Care
ENSR evolves with the times, blending its historic values with cutting-edge practices to prepare students for the future. One of its most impactful additions has been the Montessori programme, introduced as a parallel to the Maternelle Nouvelle programme.
The Impact of the Montessori programme:
The Montessori approach emphasizes hands-on, student-led learning, respecting each child’s unique pace and personality.
Adapting to Digital Learning During COVID-19:
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional schooling, ENSR rose to the challenge. Within days, the school transitioned to a fully digital learning model, ensuring continuity in education for all students. Teachers conducted live lessons, created interactive assignments, and maintained close communication with students and parents.
This highlights ENSR’s resilience and reinforces its commitment to innovation.
Now integrating tools like robotics, coding, and AI into its curriculum, ENSR prepares students to adapt and lead.
Sustainability in Action: Connecting Students to Nature
At ENSR, sustainability is a way of life. The school’s permaculture gardening programme is woven into the curriculum to complement student-centered learning by fostering creativity, responsibility, and teamwork.
A Broader Commitment to Sustainability:
From implementing eco-friendly practices in its facilities to encouraging environmental responsibility among students, ENSR’s initiatives align with its mission to nurture globally conscious citizens.
Highlights of ENSR’s broader sustainability efforts include:
- Eco-Friendly Infrastructure
- Sustainability Education
- Community Impact
Sports and Sustainability in the Spotlight
Sports remain central to ENSR’s philosophy, strengthened in 2021 by a partnership with Swiss Basketball in the form of a sport-study programme. Summer camps and ski camps have long been integral offerings for students, with more recent additions including windsurfing camps and day camps specifically designed for Primary and Kindergarten students.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As ENSR enters the next chapter of its journey, its commitment to educational innovation, bilingual education, and student well-being remains steadfast.
By blending its rich history with a forward-looking approach, the school continues to inspire and prepare students to thrive in an ever-changing world. ENSR is dedicated to shaping a brighter tomorrow for every learner who walks through its doors.
