For over three centuries, Lasallian education has shaped the lives of millions of young people worldwide. In the United Kingdom, De La Salle schools continue a rich tradition that began with one man’s revolutionary vision: that quality education should be accessible to all, especially the poor.
The Visionary Founder: St. John Baptist de La Salle
In 17th century France, education was a privilege reserved for the wealthy. Born into an aristocratic family in Reims in 1651, John Baptist de La Salle could have lived a comfortable life. Instead, he was moved by the plight of poor children who had no access to education.
De La Salle made a radical choice: he gave away his wealth and founded a community of teaching brothers dedicated to providing free, quality education to those who needed it most. In 1680, he established the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, creating the world’s first teacher training college and pioneering classroom practices still used today.
His innovations were groundbreaking: teaching in the vernacular language rather than Latin, grouping students by ability, integrating religious and secular instruction, and focusing on practical skills alongside academic knowledge.
Core Values That Define Lasallian Education
Lasallian schools worldwide, including those in the UK, are built on five fundamental principles:
Faith in the Presence of God – Recognizing the sacred in everyday life and seeing education as a ministry of presence and relationship.
Concern for the Poor and Social Justice – Prioritizing those most in need and advocating for dignity, equality, and opportunity for all.
Quality Education – Pursuing excellence in teaching and learning while developing the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
Respect for All Persons – Honoring the inherent dignity of every individual and fostering inclusive communities.
Inclusive Community – Building relationships based on mutual respect, where everyone belongs and contributes.
Lasallian Education Comes to Britain
The De La Salle Brothers arrived in the United Kingdom in the 19th century, bringing their educational mission to industrial cities where working-class children desperately needed schooling. The first British foundation was established in 1855.
The Brothers opened schools in urban centers, often in the poorest areas, staying true to their founder’s commitment to serve those most marginalized. These institutions became beacons of hope, offering rigorous education combined with moral formation and practical skills.
De La Salle Schools in the UK Today
Today, several schools across England and Scotland carry the Lasallian name and charism, forming part of a global network of over 1,000 educational institutions in 80 countries, serving more than one million students.
Notable UK Lasallian Schools Include:
De La Salle College, Basildon – A Catholic secondary school serving the local community with strong academic results and pastoral care
De La Salle School, Sheffield – Offering comprehensive education rooted in Lasallian values
St. John’s School, Marlborough – Maintaining the Lasallian tradition of service
These schools maintain their founder’s vision while adapting to contemporary needs, serving diverse student populations and addressing modern challenges.
The Lasallian Character: More Than Academic Achievement
What makes a Lasallian education distinctive? It’s the integration of academic excellence with character formation. Students are encouraged to:
Develop their full potential – intellectually, spiritually, physically, and socially
Serve others – through community service, social justice initiatives, and acts of compassion
Build meaningful relationships – with teachers who see education as a vocation, not just a profession
Think critically – questioning, analyzing, and engaging with the world around them
Live with integrity – guided by strong moral principles and ethical decision-making
The Lasallian approach recognizes that education is fundamentally relational. Teachers are not merely instructors but mentors who accompany students on their journey, showing genuine care for each person.
Continuing the Mission in Modern Times
Today’s Lasallian schools in the UK face different challenges than their 17th-century counterparts, but the mission remains constant: providing quality education that transforms lives, especially for those who need it most.
Modern Lasallian institutions continue to:
Champion inclusivity, welcoming students of all backgrounds and abilities
Address educational inequality, ensuring disadvantaged students receive additional support
Embrace innovation while maintaining core values
Foster global citizenship, connecting students with Lasallian communities worldwide
Promote sustainability and social responsibility, preparing students to address contemporary challenges
A Living Legacy
The story of Lasallian education in the UK is one of faithful dedication to a transformative vision. From the cobblestone streets of 17th-century Reims to the modern classrooms of 21st-century Britain, the spirit of St. John Baptist de La Salle lives on.
These schools are more than educational institutions; they are communities where faith meets learning, where excellence meets compassion, and where young people discover their purpose and potential.
For families seeking an education that develops the whole person and instills values of service, justice, and faith, Lasallian schools offer a proven tradition combined with forward-thinking practice.