Inside Collège Saint-Benoît de Maredsous: 'The boarding school is not just for children facing difficulties'

Nestled at the end of a winding road through fields and woods, the Collège Saint-Benoît de Maredsous stands as an imposing grey stone building, adjacent to the abbey founded in 1872.

Originally established by monks in 1883 exclusively for boys, the boarding school has grown significantly from its initial eight students. In 1996, it opened its doors to both girls and day students. Today, the Collège educates just over 200 students, with 123 of them boarding. The student body is now composed of one-third girls and two-thirds boys.

Visitors approaching the entrance might wonder about the building's purpose. Inside, students navigate a maze of corridors, some gathering in a central courtyard with a glass ceiling. All students, boys and girls alike, wear a uniform: a light shirt, charcoal trousers, and dress shoes. While a vest and V-neck sweater are optional, a tie is reserved for exams and special occasions.

Pierre-Antoine François, who has worked at the Collège for fourteen years and is now the boarding prefect, explains the uniform's significance. "It truly offers a sense of belonging to a group. It can unite people, especially when going out. We are proud to wear it," he says. He also notes that the uniform simplifies morning routines, eliminating the need to spend time choosing outfits, and marks a transition into a school mindset.

After classes, students at the boarding school, inspired by English institutions, are kept busy. "The policy is therefore to offer students the opportunity to be occupied as much as possible outside of classes," François explains. Each day is precisely scheduled, with students waking independently, having breakfast, and preparing for class. Girls and boys dine together in the main building's refectory. The boarding school aims to provide a structured yet engaging environment for its students.

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Cela offre vraiment une forme d'appartenance à un collectif. Ça peut rassembler, surtout quand on va à l'extérieur. On est fiers de le porter