The Department of Yvelines officially inaugurated on September 22, 2026, the main phase of the new La Mare aux Saules college in Coignières. This structuring project aims to provide a modern, innovative, and environmentally friendly establishment for the educational community.
This new college, more spacious, brighter, and energy-efficient, welcomed students from Coignières and Maurepas for the start of the school year. Feedback from students and teachers has been very positive, highlighting the improved spaces and natural lighting.
The reconstruction, costing 37 million euros, was carried out on the site of the existing establishment while ensuring the continuity of educational activities. The capacity has been increased from 500 to 600 students to anticipate future needs of the area. The building, constructed with a wooden frame and using bio-sourced materials, features green roofs and a heat pump heating system powered by renewable energy.
Didier Fischer, mayor of Coignières, expressed pride in the realization of this project, awaited for over a decade, praising the high-quality environment provided for the youth and educational staff.
The college is also designed for new pedagogical practices, including a special needs class (ULIS), a FabLab, a web radio, an educational garden, and high-performance digital equipment. It comprises 15 general teaching rooms, 4 science rooms, 2 technology rooms, a multimedia room, 2 art rooms, and a modern documentation center. A secure facility for over 120 bicycles has also been set up to encourage soft mobility.
Stéphanie Thièyre, headmistress of the college and departmental councilor, emphasized the importance of building a school of trust close to the territories.
During the official ceremony on September 22, Pierre Bédier, president of the Department of Yvelines, congratulated the teams involved in the construction, including Colas and architect Arnaud Gode. He reiterated the Department's commitment to continue its work with college students, considering college as a crucial place for developing critical thinking and building citizenship.
The La Mare aux Saules college covers 17,603 m² and represents an investment of 37 million euros. It includes 25 teaching rooms and educational spaces, a ULIS class, a FabLab, a web radio, and 450 m² of photovoltaic panels.
