The Internat du Rhône opened in September at the Collège du Mont Saint-Rigaud in Deux-Grosnes, a village located at an altitude of 1,009 meters. This new facility has been certified as an "Internat d'Excellence Ruralité (IER)" by the French Ministry of National Education. The goal is to provide a living and learning environment that promotes student well-being while respecting the natural surroundings. The Internat du Rhône is part of the Rhône department's initiative for the 2026 school year. In its first year, it welcomed 18 middle school students, with the capacity expected to grow to 48 students by the 2027 school year.
The project was co-financed by the French government and carried out by the Baudin Chateauneuf Group, with architectural design by Ataub Architects. The building is designed with a focus on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. It uses orientation, insulation, natural light, and heat protection systems to minimize energy use. The projected annual energy consumption is estimated at 49.4 kWh per square meter, just below the project's target of 50 kWh per square meter. The total investment for the project reached 3.75 million euros, with 1.25 million euros coming from the State.
The Internat du Rhône provides dormitory-style rooms for up to two students, open study areas with views of the surrounding landscape, and a meal service that emphasizes local and regional products. It also includes a nature sports program featuring activities such as mountain biking, trail running, and orienteering. The facility is fully accessible for students with disabilities, ensuring inclusive access to all its services and programs.
Local authorities highlight that the project aims to create an optimal living and working environment that encourages awareness of sustainable development and promotes outdoor physical activity. The Internat du Rhône represents an effort to combine modern education with environmental responsibility and health, offering students a unique experience in a high-altitude setting.
New Internat du Rhône Opens in Deux-Grosnes with Environmental Focus
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