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Origin and history

The former Senonches school, built in the last quarter of the 19th century, is an emblematic example of public schools in the Third Republic. In 1881, the municipality acquired a house for a 120-seat asylum and a 92-seat girls' school. This project is part of the educational reforms carried out by Jules Ferry, which impose, through the decree of 17 June 1880, strict standards for schools: changing rooms, classrooms, preaux with gymnasium, recreation classes, and sanitary. The works, carried out between 1882 and 1884 by architect Vaillant, transformed the building into a functional building while partially displacing itself from the official standard plans.

The facade and roofs of the school, inscribed in the Historical Monuments by decree of 20 December 1985, are distinguished by their polychrome decoration. It combines bricks, white stones, pink and ochre crepi, tiles and slates, reflecting a renewed interest in colourful architectures at this time. The building thus embodies the educational and aesthetic ambitions of the late 19th century, mixing public utility and ornamental research.

The school's architecture meets the demands of the hygienist and pedagogic period, with spaces dedicated to learning, play and student health. The presence of a gymnasium and outdoor classes underscores the importance attached to physical education, which is then booming. Today, this monument bears witness to the legacy of the school laws of the Third Republic and their lasting impact on the French built heritage.

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