The Lycée

The Lycée International des Pontonniers is made up of three buildings. It is most known for the first, which almost looks like a castle. The high ceilings, curving staircases, small statues, and tiles which create designs on the floor give the hallways the same feel as the exterior. However, the classrooms are more modern looking. I have most of my classes in this building, which also houses the school offices. 

The second building, where I have my théâtre classes, is also very old. We have a  classroom and a lovely acting space with stage lighting and benches for the spectators. Underneath is another set of rooms that are sometimes used for rehearsal when there's a class going on above. Open a door, you'll find a staircase and another door, which leads to another door and staircase, and another door….

The third building is the most modern. There, I have science and mythology. The foyer on the ground floor has microwaves, a sink, and dozes of tables for students to eat or do homework on when it's not pleasant outside. Occasionally someone will be singing or playing music, or a group will be selling crepes to fund their upcoming trip. A couple days ago when the foyer was closed for an hour my friends and I went to the library, which I had not known existed. I knew the formal library in the main building, but this one was equipped with chairs and study spaces. There's also a small computer lab and other rooms I haven't been in yet. 

The french high school system has three grades. I am in première, which is actually the middle grade. Class sizes range from 13 to 25, and classes can be 1 to 3 hours at a time. Students are divided into three basic tracks: science, economics, and literature. I am in the last category, but about half my classes are mixed with the others. 

My teachers are generally very nice. However, they're very strict about being on time. They may arrive 4 minutes late, but if you arrive 2 minutes after the music has signaled the beginning of class, you're sent down to the office for a ticket. Fortunately I only know this from observation, not personal experience.  

Every two hours we have 10 or 15 minute break. Smoking isn't allowed in the courtyard, so those who want to file out into the street. There's also a bakery down the street, and a lot of students run out to get an afternoon snack. If you don't smoke and aren't hungry, you probably have friends who are. The students form an impenetrable road block on the one-way road outside the school gates. 

For lunch most students visit one of the many little shops in the area which give discounts to those with a student identification.

Students arrive by tram, bus, bicycle, and foot. The school is located close to the center of the city, so it's quite convenient. The tram stop is at the other end of the block, and during an hour break I biked to the Place Kléber and picked up few books I needed for class. 

I'm very lucky to go this lycée, it's well known for being an excellent school. And I'd never thought I could look out my classroom window and see swans swimming by.

The first picture is the main building, and the in the second I have théâtre. This gate is actually only used by teachers, students go through the one on the other side.