For over 120 years, Collège Champittet has been shaping young minds, with a heritage of Swiss tradition, international innovation, and humanistic values at the core of its educational approach. This legacy is not only embedded in its philosophy but is also physically reflected in the historic buildings of its Pully campus. The St Bernard building, home to the secondary school, stands as a significant part of the school's identity. Constructed in 1958 under the leadership of the Congregation of Canons of the Great Saint Bernard, who administered the college from 1951 to 1998, the building is named after Saint Bernard of Menthon. Born around 1020 or 923, Saint Bernard was a priest and archdeacon dedicated to caring for travellers and the poor, founding hospices in the Alpine passes. Canonized in 1681, he is the patron saint of mountaineers and travellers, and his legacy endures in the Great St Bernard Pass and the famous rescue dogs that bear his name. At Collège Champittet, his values of hospitality, generosity, and pastoral care continue to inspire the school community, reminding students of the importance of compassion and service.
The St Augustin building, originally known as the Ancien Collège (Old College), was established in 1910 and now houses the school's administration. This historic structure, listed in the architectural census of the canton of Vaud, was built just a few years after the school's founding in 1903, serving as a tangible link to its origins. In 2016, it was renamed in honour of Saint Augustine, reflecting the school's commitment to intellectual curiosity and reflection. Augustine of Hippo, born in 354 in southern Algeria, was a profound Christian thinker, philosopher, theologian, and bishop. His work reconciled faith and reason, and he explored concepts such as memory, intelligence, and will—what he termed the 'inner trinity.' His influential doctrines on original sin, grace, free will, and the nature of evil have left a lasting impact on Western civilisation. The naming of this building after Saint Augustine underscores the school's dedication to cultivating thoughtful, well-rounded individuals. Together, these campus structures are more than just facilities; they are inspiring reminders of a rich heritage that continues to guide the educational journey at Collège Champittet, fostering an environment where history and learning intersect.
