Ignatiusgymnasium

Established in 1895, the Ignatiusgymnasium stands as a testament to Amsterdam’s rich history. The Ignatiusgymnasium started as a Jesuit school. It was originally located on Herengracht, near the Krijtberg church. The school’s name honors the founder of the Jesuit Order, Ignatius of Loyola. The Ignatiusgymnasium was initially an all-boys school, seen as a pathway to priesthood. This changed in 1970 when the first female student enrolled. The Ignatiusgymnasium has moved several times throughout its history. It relocated to Pieter de Hoochstraat in 1911. Then, it exchanged buildings with the Montessori Lyceum Amsterdam in 1979, moving to Anthonie van Dijckstraat. In 2000, the Ignatiusgymnasium found a home on Jan van Eijckstraat. Even during renovations, the Ignatiusgymnasium’s commitment to education never wavered. It temporarily relocated to De Klencke in Buitenveldert while the Jan van Eijckstraat building underwent expansion. Today, the Ignatiusgymnasium stands on Jan van Eijckstraat, boasting roughly 900 students and 70 staff. It offers a rigorous gymnasium education, including Greek and Latin. The Ignatiusgymnasium fosters a vibrant student life. Students participate in excursions, including a first-year beach camp, a trip to Schiermonnikoog for second-year students, and a survival trip through the Ardennes for fourth-year students. Fifth-year students embark on cultural trips to Rome or Greece. The Ignatiusgymnasium has been recognized for its academic excellence. It was named the best school in North Holland in 2004 and received the “Excellent School” designation in 2012. Beyond academics, the Ignatiusgymnasium encourages student involvement in music, theater, and sports. The Big Band and school plays offer creative outlets. The annual school competition, or schoolstrijd, is a major event, with students competing in various activities. The Ignatiusgymnasium is more than just a school. It is a vibrant part of Amsterdam’s educational landscape, shaping future generations of thinkers and leaders. Its legacy of academic excellence and commitment to holistic development continues to inspire.