They say that Eton English markedly differs from standard English.
Indeed, many terms that are used here are incomprehensible outside the school. For example, the word “lesson” or “class” is not used at Eton. “Division” is used instead. In the 15th century, the classroom was separated by a wooden division, hence the word, which is confusing to the uninitiated. There are hundreds if not thousands of such examples. There are many archaisms in “Eton English”. Newly employed teachers are issued a special Eton dictionary. This language tradition has remained unchanged for the past 500 years.
Has the school preserved its importance in the British education system that it had, e.g., before World War II?
Like any old educational establishment, Eton has gone through different periods. But to many people, the name still has a magic ring. When I go to some international conference and say that I work at Eton, I immediately feel interest and respect. Eton traditions are not about ossified conservatism. The school uses modern, state-of-the-art teaching methodologies, but the most important thing of course are the moral principles and rules of gentlemanly behaviour that are part of the education process.