The Story of Vita et Pax
Life and Peace Since 1936Founded as part of the Vita et Pax Foundation, our school carries a remarkable heritage—one connected to Pope Saint John XXIII and the Benedictine tradition of educational excellence.
The Vita et Pax Foundation
Our OriginsThe origins of Vita et Pax Preparatory School are intimately connected with the broader Vita et Pax Foundation, established by Dom Constantine Bosschaerts OSB (1899–1950), a Belgian Olivetan Benedictine monk. Bosschaerts was a visionary figure in the Catholic Church who maintained a close friendship and collaboration with Archbishop Angelo Roncalli—the future Pope Saint John XXIII, who would later convene the transformative Second Vatican Council.
The Vita et Pax Foundation embodied progressive ideals of Christian unity and liturgical renewal that were ahead of their time. Our school's name, derived from Latin meaning 'Life and Peace', reflects its founding ethos of Christian unity and spiritual development.
Bosschaerts came to England in 1922 to establish a branch of Vita et Pax in Eccleshall, Staffordshire. In 1936, he founded additional branches at Rochester and Cockfosters in North London, where the Church of Christ the King (Vita et Pax) still bears the foundation's name inscribed on its modernist white brick façade.
Founding and Early Years (1936–1966)
The BeginningVita et Pax Preparatory School was established in 1936 as part of the educational mission of the Vita et Pax Foundation. The school's humble beginnings saw classes conducted at two locations: Bramley Road and Heddon Court. At Bramley Road, children were taught by Miss Maura Blans, while at Heddon Court, instruction was provided by the Benedictine Nuns—establishing the school's enduring connection to the monastic tradition.
By 1938, as pupil numbers grew, the school consolidated its operations and relocated to a house on Linden Way in Southgate. However, the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939 brought significant disruption. Like many London schools during the Blitz, Vita et Pax was evacuated—in this case to Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire—under the care of Sister Bede.
Following the war, Sister Bernard assumed the role of headteacher, guiding the school through the post-war recovery period and the significant social changes of the 1950s and early 1960s.
The Priory Close Era (1966–Present)
A New HomeIn 1966, a significant milestone was reached when the school moved to its current purpose-built premises at 6a Priory Close, off Green Road in Southgate. Sister Lucia served as headteacher during this transitional period, overseeing the establishment of the new facilities.
The school was formally incorporated as Vita Et Pax School (Cockfosters) Limited, reflecting its transition from direct monastic administration to an independent charitable structure while maintaining its foundational values and Catholic ethos.
Ten headteachers have guided our school through nearly nine decades, from Miss Maura Blans in 1936 to Mr Darren May today. The Olivetan Benedictine monks maintained a presence at Cockfosters for 77 years (1936–2013), during which time they supported the parish and school. Though the monks departed in 2013, their legacy endures in the school's values and the architectural heritage of the Christ the King church building.
Our Heritage Today
Life and Peace
Vita et Pax maintains its Catholic identity while welcoming children from all faiths and backgrounds. The school's philosophy centres on recognising the uniqueness of each individual child, fostering their spiritual, academic, personal, and physical development within a caring community.
Our core vision remains true to the original ideals of the Vita et Pax Foundation—combining rigorous education with spiritual nurture and a commitment to peace and unity. The school maintains close links with the nearby Church of Christ the King in Cockfosters, reflecting our historical connection to the Vita et Pax Foundation.
Pope John XXIII, who collaborated with our founder Dom Bosschaerts, is remembered for convening the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965). He was canonised as a saint in 2014 and is often referred to as 'Il Papa Buono' (The Good Pope). His encyclical 'Pacem in Terris' (Peace on Earth) echoes the very values upon which our school was founded.
Continue the Story
Join nearly 90 years of educational excellenceBook a visit and discover why families have trusted us for generations. Experience the warmth, heritage, and excellence that make Vita et Pax special.