Established in 1958 the Brussels European School I stands before you. It wasn’t the first European School. That honor belongs to Luxembourg. But this school in Uccle quickly became a vital part of a growing European community. Imagine the initial excitement. Twenty-six pupils and six teachers began this ambitious project. They offered education in their mother tongues within a multilingual multicultural environment.
The school’s early years were modest. It began on rue du Trône. But soon a move to its current Uccle campus was needed. The Belgian state provided this leafy location. This was a huge step. The school’s growth mirrored the expansion of the European Communities. The merging of executives and councils in 1967 brought more staff and families. Enrolment soared.
The school wasn’t just expanding physically. It also expanded its linguistic offerings. Today besides English French and German sections it boasts Danish Hungarian Latvian Italian Polish and Spanish sections. Think of the richness of languages heard within its walls. The school’s curriculum culminates in the European Baccalaureate. This is a globally recognized diploma. Notable alumni include Ursula von der Leyen and Boris Johnson. Their first meeting reportedly began with a discussion about their shared alma mater.
The school’s influence extends far beyond its classrooms. It’s a testament to international cooperation. It provides education for children of EU staff. This ensures a diverse student body. The sheer number of students is impressive. In 2023-24 there were over 4300 students. This is a community shaped by European ideals. It’s a place where cultures blend and languages flourish. It’s a microcosm of Europe itself.
The Brussels European School I stands as a symbol of unity. It is a living testament to the power of education. It nurtures future leaders across Europe. So here we are at a school with a unique history. It’s a place that has witnessed the growth of Europe firsthand. A place that continues to shape the future. A place worthy of our attention and admiration.