Our new name was chosen to unite our partner schools geographically. The oak tree or chene is a common native species in the woodlands of the Yvelines. This is the story of the GrandChene Section Internationale. We are located in the western Paris region. Our new name reflects our location and our values.
The GrandChene Section Internationale wasn’t always known by this name. For years it was the Section Internationale La Celle-Saint-Cloud-Noisy-le-Roi. Before that it was known as APESEB. This stands for Association des Parents d’Eleves de la Section Britannique. The name change in 2024 marked a significant step. It consolidated our identity across partner schools. It strengthened our reputation as a leading British International Section in the region.
Four families founded the school in 2002. They wanted a French-English bilingual education for their children. They started with just four students in a 6eme class at College Pasteur in La Celle Saint-Cloud. Twenty years later the school has grown significantly. There are now 270 students in bilingual programs. Eighty children are also enrolled in the Anglais Apres la Classe. This is a non-native language program.
The GrandChene Section Internationale is privately run and parent-led. It’s committed to academic excellence. The school uses a student-centered approach. Its affordable bilingual programs are integrated into the French public school system. This is approved by the French Ministry of Education. Cambridge International Education moderates official English exams. The school boasts a 100% success rate on the Baccalaureat Francais International. The oak tree symbolizes wisdom strength and transition. It is a fitting symbol for a school that has grown and evolved over two decades. The four colors in our new logo represent the four founding families and our core values. The star symbolizes academic distinction. The quill and leaf embody the dual nature of bilingualism.
The GrandChene Section Internationale is more than just a school. It is a community. It is a testament to the dedication of families and educators. It represents the power of bilingual education and international collaboration. This school is a true success story. It shows the commitment to academic excellence and the development of well-rounded global citizens. The school continues to flourish. It strives to offer high-quality education in a welcoming and supportive environment.