Responsibility becomes real when someone else is depending on you. A boy learns to serve through the things he is asked to do faithfully, carefully and without fuss.

At Chavagnes International College, a Catholic boarding school for boys in western France, we understand education as a formation of character as well as intellect. The life of prayer gives that work its centre.

The ordinary work of community

Shared life provides repeated opportunities to think about other people: keeping a common space in order, being punctual, preparing properly for a lesson, helping a younger pupil, or playing one’s part in a team. None of these things is spectacular. Together, they help a boy discover that freedom carries obligations.

Good school discipline should lead towards that discovery. A rule is more readily understood when a pupil can see the person or common good it protects.

Prayer, worship and example

Mass and prayer are central to Chavagnes. They place the school day within a larger horizon and remind teachers and pupils alike that education concerns the use we make of our gifts.

Serving in the chapel, singing or simply learning to attend reverently asks for preparation and self-control. The adults in a Catholic school have a particular responsibility here: boys learn from what they see as well as from what they are told.

Growing into a useful young man

Parents naturally hope that their son will become confident. Confidence takes on a richer meaning when it includes the ability to be dependable, admit a mistake and offer help. Leadership can begin with the willingness to undertake an unglamorous task well.

Our aim is to help boys develop the knowledge, habits and generosity that will serve them beyond school: in university, work, family life and the Church.

Read about the Catholic life of Chavagnes or contact the Headmaster to learn more.