École normale supérieure facts for kids
The École normale supérieure (often called ENS) is a special type of school in France for students who want to study at a very high level after finishing high school. Think of them as super-selective universities!
In France, most universities have to accept any student who has earned their baccalaureat (a diploma you get after high school). But ENS schools are different. They are part of a group called Grandes Écoles, which means "Great Schools." These schools are very hard to get into. They don't have to accept everyone, and only a small number of very talented students are chosen to study there. Many people who graduate from an ENS go on to become important leaders in different areas, like science, government, or the arts.
Regular universities often have separate departments called "faculties" for different subjects, like a science faculty or a literature faculty. ENS schools usually group similar subjects together in one school and don't use the "faculty" system.
Contents
What Makes ENS Special?
A History of Excellence
The first École normale supérieure was created in Paris way back in 1794 during the French Revolution. Its main goal was to train teachers for the new national education system. Over time, these schools became known for training top researchers, scientists, writers, and public servants. They are famous for their strong focus on research and for encouraging students to think deeply and creatively.
How Students Get In
Getting into an ENS is very competitive. Students usually spend two or three years after high school preparing for difficult entrance exams. These exams test their knowledge in many subjects, like math, physics, literature, and philosophy. Only the very best students pass these exams and are invited to join an ENS.
Different ENS Schools
While the most famous ENS is in Paris (often called ENS Ulm), there are other ENS schools in France, each specializing in different fields:
- ENS Paris-Saclay: Focuses on science, engineering, and social sciences.
- ENS de Lyon: Covers a wide range of subjects, including sciences, humanities, and arts.
- ENS Rennes: Specializes in areas like sports, computer science, and law.
Each ENS school aims to educate future leaders and experts in their specific fields, helping them become top researchers, professors, or high-ranking officials.
Notable Alumni
Many famous people have studied at an École normale supérieure. Here's one example:
- Jean-Charles Darmon (graduated in 1982) is a well-known French literary critic. This means he studies and writes about books and literature.
Images for kids
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Key decrees and laws on the upper part of the entrance of École Normale Supérieure, 45 rue d'Ulm
See also
In Spanish: Escuela Normal Superior (Francia) para niños
