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Rubrik? Profile
In the Name of the Father (& Son) Le Rosey Director Philippe Gudin Places School Firmly in Son Christophe’s Hands INTERVIEW BY: JANUARIA PIROMALLO PHOTOS BY: ADRIÀ LUCAS GARCÍA GONZÁLEZ
For a hundred years, Le Rosey has called Gstaad its winter home. Every January, the school moves its 400 students from the main campus in Rolle, built on a 14th-century castle, to homely wooden chalets in the Saanenland. A close partner and source of both pride and income for the region, the school has made plans to expand and is awaiting final federal approval for its new campus in Schönried. The views from Le Roseyʼs Alpine campus may be breathtaking, but inside the real inspiration comes from top-notch professors and courses. Students from around the world
vie for a spot in this, one of the most exclusive, and expensive, private schools in the world. For the past 35 years, this educational empire founded in 1880 has been ruled by fourth generation owners and directors Anne and Philippe Gudin. With his charming and surprisingly down-to-earth manner, Gudin gives off the impression of a timeless French actor of the Nouvelle Vague (New Wave) instead of strict director. But son Christophe, beau garcon, has recently taken on the role of adjoint director, waiting his turn to be crowned “King of the Castle”. Is not easy to have father and son for a double interview: If one is at the winter campus,
then the other is in Rolle. If one is testing new students with entrance examinations, the other is meeting with the professors. They both may be multitasking, dedicated globetrotters, but the Gudins are certainly not interchangeable – each brings a unique quality to the role of school director. Despite their busy schedules, the Gudins were kind enough to sit for an interview with GSTAADLIFE. In the conference room, flanked by a large collage of students in all manner of activity – graduating, racing, winning, performing, like a unique piece of pop art – we caught a glimpse the real Rosey. Top education in a beautiful setting, certainly, but not without a lot of hard work derriere les coulisses, behind the scenes.