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Armand Pellegrin Museum – Museum of Active Pedagogy, learning differently through time

The Armand Pellegrin Museum – Museum of Active Pedagogy offers a discovery that is both warm and instructive, located in the village of Opheylissem in the municipality of Hélécine. Here, visitors do not simply observe: they understand, manipulate and participate. This unique place pays tribute to Armand Pellegrin, a teacher from the first half of the 20th century, and to his visionary approach to education based on observation, practice and the active involvement of students.

A living pedagogy born from real experience

From the very first rooms, the museum immerses visitors in the world of active pedagogy as it was practiced daily by Armand Pellegrin. Far from passive learning, this method encourages experimentation, curiosity and participation. The didactic exhibitions are designed to be accessible and engaging, inviting everyone to reflect, test and understand things for themselves.

The educational activities offered spark the interest of both children and adults. Visitors observe, compare and manipulate objects, discovering how remarkably relevant this educational approach remains today. The visit becomes a moment of exchange and discovery where learning happens naturally, almost effortlessly.

A former school filled with local memory

The museum is housed in a former municipal boys’ school, a building that still carries traces of everyday school life from the past. The walls, classrooms and overall atmosphere evoke memories familiar to many generations. This authentic setting strengthens the human and emotional dimension of the visit.

Throughout the route, the story of the school intertwines with that of the village and the region. The museum also highlights local and regional history as well as folklore, offering a sensitive glimpse into everyday life in the past, shaped by traditions, craftsmanship and collective memory.

An immersion in everyday life of the past

Visiting the museum also means rediscovering the artisanal, domestic and local atmosphere of a not-so-distant past. Objects, stories and reconstructed scenes evoke the daily lives of families, students and teachers in a time when learning was closely connected to everyday activities.

This immersion is always guided by the pedagogical philosophy dear to Armand Pellegrin: understanding the world by observing it, practicing it and actively taking part in it. The museum thus creates a natural link between pedagogy, history and the local territory.

An accessible and deeply human place

The Armand Pellegrin Museum – Museum of Active Pedagogy stands out for its participatory and accessible approach. Visitors come to learn differently, but also to share a meaningful moment with family, school groups or anyone curious about local history. The visit unfolds without pressure, in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels involved.

Opening times

Tuesday to Friday from 10.00 to 17.00 and the first three Sundays of the month from 13.00 to 17.00 • Closed on public holidays

Price

adults €5 • students €5 • children (<12) €5 • children (<6) free • First Sunday of the month: free

Guided tour

Choice of: self-guided tour or guided tour at no extra charge (in FR only)

Tour length

1 hr

Group

Price €5

Guided tour Guided tour available in French only

More information • Cafeteria, shop, tourist office.

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