In 1885, a project to build a school complex included a boys' elementary school for 258 students and a boys' high school (a collège) for 84 students. The School of Arts opened its doors to students in 1886.
This location was chosen by the City Council commission because it met all the conditions required for a good school facility and had the following advantages: the creation of a new neighborhood, the establishment of the avenue de la gare, the enlargement of the fairgrounds, the rectification of the boulevard du Canal and the extension of the rue du Port through the "Pré de l'hôpital".
As for the building, the right wing is reserved for the Elementary School, with a classroom for the Upper Elementary School; the right part of the facade for the Upper Elementary School with, on the first floor, the functional housing of the Director of the Elementary School.
The left wing of the building has three classrooms including a drawing and science room, a chemistry laboratory and a study room. On the second floor, there is the Principal's quarters, an infirmary and a locker room.
The courtyard was originally divided into three parts: the Middle School courtyard and the Upper Elementary School courtyard on the left, the Elementary School courtyard on the right, and in the back, adjoining a building that still exists and serves as a gymnasium, two covered courtyards.
As for the building, the right wing is reserved for the Elementary School, with a classroom for the Upper Elementary School; the right part of the facade for the Upper Elementary School with, on the first floor, the functional housing of the Director of the Elementary School.
The left wing of the building has three classrooms including a drawing and science room, a chemistry laboratory and a study room. On the second floor, there is the Principal's quarters, an infirmary and a locker room.
The courtyard was originally divided into three parts: the Middle School courtyard and the Upper Elementary School courtyard on the left, the Elementary School courtyard on the right, and in the back, adjoining a building that still exists and serves as a gymnasium, two covered courtyards.
