Edmond Demolins and the English 'New School' Revolution

Edmond Demolins and the "New School" in England

An exploration of Edmond Demolins' educational philosophy and the influence of the English New School movement

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Photo by Xavier Coiffic on Unsplash

• Introduction to Edmond Demolins
• The "New School" Concept (L'École nouvelle)
• Influence of English Boarding Schools
• Key Educational Principles
• Legacy and Impact on Modern Education

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Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

1

Edmond Demolins: The Reformer

Who was the man behind the movement?

• French sociologist, journalist, and educational reformer (1852–1907).
• Author of the influential work: 'À quoi tient la supériorité des Anglo-Saxons?' (1897).
• Critiqued the centralized, rigid French education system of his time.
• Championed individual autonomy, character development, and practical learning.

2

The "New School" Concept and English Influence

Redefining education beyond the classroom

The French Context Dominance of rote memorization, rigid discipline, and intellectual competition. High focus on state examinations and bureaucratic success.

The English Model Focus on 'gentlemanly' virtues, physical health, self-reliance, and sportsmanship. Holistic development outside formal instruction.

• Demolins saw English schools like Abbotssholme (founded by Cecil Reddie) as models for reform.
• L'École nouvelle (The New School) was his practical realization of these ideas.
• Key shift: from a 'state-centered' model to an 'individual-centered' model.
• Priority: Developing the 'social type' capable of initiative and independence.

• Emphasis on manual work, crafts, and gardening as vital character building.
• Nature-oriented learning: classrooms were often moved outdoors to foster connection with the environment.
• Democratic atmosphere: students participated in school management and shared responsibilities.

• Demolins' ideas laid the groundwork for the modern progressive education movement.
• Influenced schools across Europe and beyond (including Montessori and later progressive approaches).
• Lasting emphasis on child-centered learning and emotional intelligence.
• A shift in the perception of the school as a living community rather than just an institution.

The enduring spirit of the New School movement.

Shaping the future of education by looking at the best of the past.

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Photo by Marko Lengyel on Unsplash