“I think, therefore I am.” That is the motto of the Cartesius Lyceum.
The Cartesius Lyceum stands before us. It is more than just a school. It is a place of learning and growth. This school is located in Amsterdam. It is part of the Onderwijsstichting Esprit.
The Cartesius Lyceum provides education for havo, atheneum, and gymnasium levels. These are different tracks in the Dutch secondary education system. The school embraces inclusivity and global citizenship. Its student population is diverse. The curriculum reflects this commitment. The Cartesius Lyceum promotes an open attitude. It encourages students to respect each other and society.
The school’s name honors the French philosopher Cartesius. He is also known as Descartes. The school adopted his famous saying. “Cogito ergo sum” is a powerful statement. It emphasizes the importance of thinking and existence.
The Cartesius Lyceum values international student exchanges. It broadens students’ horizons. It challenges them to look beyond their own boundaries. It encourages them to consider their role in the world.
The Cartesius Lyceum has a rich history. It began in 1956 as part of the Spinoza Lyceum. The school was initially located on Piet Mondriaanstraat. Queen Juliana opened a larger building in 1962.
Over time, the school changed. It merged with another school in 1988. The number of students decreased. In 1999, the Cartesius Lyceum moved closer to Jordaan. This area needed a secondary school.
The Mondriaan Lyceum was split again in the 1990s. The new Cartesius Lyceum was formed. Only the name remains from the original school. The school is now located in the Frederik Hendrikbuurt.
The Cartesius Lyceum moved to its current location in 2011-2012. The building was renovated. The exterior was improved. The interior was modernized. The school continues to offer havo, atheneum, and gymnasium education.
Many people have led the Cartesius Lyceum. G.W. Bolkestein was the first rector. Piet Reimer also served as rector. Rob de Breij, Annette Sloan, Sandra Niemeijer, Greet Swart, and Liesbeth van Welie also held this position.
Several notable people attended the Cartesius Lyceum. These include Samir Azzouz and Frans Bromet. Joke Geldhof, Simone Kleinsma, and Ron Kroon also studied here. Hans Liberg, Tom Mulder, Hans Ree, Gerdi Verbeet, Mohammed Bouyeri, and Clairy Polak are also alumni.
The Cartesius Lyceum is more than bricks and mortar. It is a community. It is a place where students learn, grow, and prepare for the future.