Leading Lights

About This Movie

Leading Lights is a poignant look at La Petite École, this Brussels-based haven for children who’ve been outside the traditional school system. The film gently unfolds the unique space Marie and Juliette have created, where the usual rigidity of education gives way to a more organic learning experience. You feel the warmth of the classroom, the laughter of kids rediscovering joy in learning. There’s a raw honesty in the kids’ interactions, a reminder of what it means to simply be a child. The pacing is quite deliberate, allowing moments of reflection. It’s visually engaging too, with a documentary style that captures the essence of community and resilience—an intimate portrayal of what education can and should be, far removed from the usual narratives.

Focus on community and educationA unique perspective on immigrant experiencesIntimate and heartwarming