Villars international schools

There was a time when the villages of Chesières, Villars and Arveyes each had a school but in 1896, it was decided to centralise education in Villars. Several hundreds of children passed through the classrooms of the new primary school built in 1884.

In the early 20th century, the region saw the development of an offshoot of the hospitality sector: homes and institutes.These first establishments were called Jolimont, La Pensée, Les Arolles or L'Alpe Fleurie (now a hotel-restaurant). Mrs Bluette Ferrier, who was involved in the care of young children, founded the “Beau Soleil” institute in 1910. Others followed suit, adopting the successful and ideal formula of studies, sport and health. 

In 1945 and later, many children weakened by the hardships of the war years came to the Ollon Alps to restore their health and well-being. The Villars plateau had up to 37 schools and boarding schools. 

Today, there are 5 prestigious schools attended by over 700 French and English-speaking students aged 3 to 18 annually, either boarding or at summer camps. These schools bring together children from all over the globe, speaking all languages. A budding society of nations where students learn about each other and mutual respect while studying.