Ermitage International School, a Premier Destination for Global Education
Ermitage International School of France, founded in 1941, is a distinguished day and boarding school located just 20 kilometers west of Paris in the picturesque suburb of Maisons-Laffitte. The school caters to over 1,500 students from pre-K through high school, fostering a diverse and cosmopolitan community that embraces children from more than 80 nationalities. This vibrant environment allows students to explore, study, socialize, and thrive while enjoying a safe, green, and peaceful setting.

Educational Programs
Ermitage offers a range of educational programs designed to meet the needs of its diverse student body:
i. French Bilingual Programmes: Available from ages 3 to 18, these programs provide bilingual instruction leading to the French Baccalaureate. Students in the Pre-K and Primary School stages develop a love for learning in both French and English, while middle schoolers (Collège) discover their identities and expand their skills through tailored classes.
ii. International Baccalaureate (IB) Programmes: Starting from age 11, students can enroll in the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP). These programs emphasize inquiry-based learning and are recognized by top universities worldwide. The nurturing environment at Ermitage ensures that students receive individualized coaching and support throughout their IB journey.
iii. International Primary Programme: Launching in the 2025-26 school year, this English-instruction program for ages 8-11 includes daily French lessons and celebrates home languages, providing a seamless transition to the IB framework.
Student Life and Extracurricular Activities
At Ermitage, education extends beyond the classroom. The school believes in a holistic approach to learning that includes cultural and athletic activities. Whether a day student or a boarder, every child participates in a rich student life experience, with a wide range of after-school activities available, such as:
- Horseback riding
- Golf
- Tennis
- Swimming
- Rowing
- Football
- Volleyball
This diverse array of activities allows students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships.
Boarding Experience in Maisons-Laffitte
Boarding students at Ermitage enjoy a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in French culture while living in a safe and welcoming environment. Maisons-Laffitte is a pedestrian-friendly town with green parks, shops, bakeries, and cafés, providing students with the chance to practice their French language skills and engage with the local community. The town’s proximity to Paris—just a 20-minute train ride—offers easy access to the city’s museums, monuments, and cultural events.
Equestrian Programs
Ermitage has deep roots in the equestrian heritage of Maisons-Laffitte, known as La Cité du Cheval. The school offers two equestrian programs for riders aged 11 to 18: Passion and Competition. These programs allow students to practice disciplines such as jumping, dressage, and cross-country riding, combining their passion for horses with academic excellence.
Ermitage International School stands out as a beacon of international education, combining rigorous academic programs with a rich array of extracurricular activities in a nurturing environment. With its commitment to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and cultural appreciation, Ermitage prepares its students to become confident, well-rounded individuals ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow’s world. Whether through its bilingual programs, IB offerings, or vibrant student life, Ermitage is dedicated to providing a holistic education that truly prepares students for success in an interconnected global society.