An Educational Tradition Nearly Two Centuries Old

A Visionary Approach, Born in Milan in 1838

Founded in Milan (Italy) by Mgr Luigi Biraghi, the International Institute of the Sisters of Saint Marcellina stood out from its earliest days for its forward-thinking approach to education. A theologian, historian and educator, Mgr Biraghi firmly believed that the education of young people, particularly women, was essential to the betterment of society.

His educational method rested on a simple, yet powerful conviction: students “learn better through example than through discourse.” It is a conviction that still guides every member of the school’s educational team today.

Our graduates are no longer standing behind great men. They are great women, driving positive change in our society. And our boys, beside them, are their valued allies.

An Educational Approach Grounded in Example and Closeness

Marcelline pedagogy is built on closeness and example. The Marcelline Sisters, teachers and all staff are not mere transmitters of knowledge. They are inspiring, committed and consistent presences.

Every student is accompanied in a personalized way, at their own pace, in a caring and structured environment. This closeness creates the climate of trust that allows everyone to surpass themselves, learn from their mistakes and fully flourish.

A Family Spirit That Transcends Borders

A true family spirit is one of the hallmarks of Marcelline pedagogy. It enables exchanges between students from the network of schools throughout the world; a token of openness to others, friendship and respect.

Here, as elsewhere, students feel at home wherever there is a Marcelline school. “Once a Marcelline, always a Marcelline“: this phrase that alumni spontaneously repeat says more than any speech ever could.

An Exceptional Setting, Conducive to Flourishing

The school is located in the heart of the Bois-de-Saraguay regional park, a heritage site recognized as the best-preserved forest on the island of Montréal. Its flora and fauna never cease to delight all who attend the school.

This peaceful and inspiring environment, rare for an urban school in Montréal, contributes to student well-being and naturally invites calm, reflection and concentration.

Academic Excellence Carried with Compassion

At the school, excellence is in our DNA. Expectations are high, support is elevated. Because surpassing oneself is more motivating when you know you are accompanied, encouraged and never alone in the journey.

Solid study skills, intellectual rigour and curiosity are cultivated from kindergarten onward, so that every young person leaves the school with the tools required to succeed and to fully engage in the world.

A Tradition That Innovates

Nearly two centuries of experience have not made the school static. They have made it more solid, and more willing to innovate. MIAH, Robotique Marcelline, Carrefour Mosaïque: each of these unique programs was born from the same founding conviction: that education must shape whole persons, capable of actively contributing to society.

The Marcelline tradition is not a heritage preserved under glass. It is a compass that guides every decision, every project and every day lived at the school.