Lycée Autogéré De Paris

Visiting Lycée Autogéré de Paris (LAP) and Lycée Innovant de Paris (LIP): Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Lycée Autogéré de Paris (LAP), now succeeded by the Lycée Innovant de Paris (LIP), stands as a pioneering institution in alternative education in France. Established in 1982, the LAP broke new ground in self-managed, democratic schooling, drawing inspiration from schools like Summerhill in England and Oslo Experimental School in Norway. The LAP/LIP’s legacy continues today in Paris’s 15th arrondissement, offering an innovative educational environment rooted in autonomy, participatory democracy, and social responsibility (gralon.net; pia.ac-paris.fr; lyc-innovant.ac-paris.fr).

While not a conventional tourist attraction, the LAP/LIP is a meaningful site for educators, students, cultural tourists, and anyone interested in educational innovation. This guide provides everything you need to plan your visit: history, visitor logistics, practical tips, and recommendations for nearby attractions.

History and Significance
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Access
Guided Tours and Events
What to Expect When Visiting
Practical Tips for Visitors
Nearby Attractions in the 15th Arrondissement
Current Context and Considerations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Takeaways and Final Tips
Sources and Official Links

History and Significance

Founded in 1982, the LAP was among France’s first self-managed high schools. Its creation was a response to the rigidities of the traditional French system, offering a space where students and staff collaboratively managed the institution. The LAP championed:

Democratic governance, with students and staff sharing decision-making power.
Collective management, including peer selection of teachers and the absence of compulsory attendance.
Flexible, workshop-based learning and individualized educational pathways.

This experimental model influenced alternative education nationwide and offered a haven for students seeking autonomy and participatory learning. In 2024, the LAP’s experimental status transitioned to the Lycée Innovant de Paris, which continues the legacy of inclusive pedagogy and democratic structure in a historic Jesuit college building (gralon.net; pia.ac-paris.fr).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Access

Location & Getting There

Address: 393 rue de Vaugirard, 75015 Paris, France
Metro: Convention or Porte de Versailles (Line 12), about a 10-minute walk
Bus: Lines 39, 80, and 88 serve rue de Vaugirard
Bike: Vélib’ bike-share stations nearby

Visiting Hours

General Visits: The LAP/LIP is an active school, not a tourist site. Visits are by appointment only.
Open Days & Events: The school occasionally hosts open house events and public programs, typically announced on its official website.
Hours for Appointments: Weekdays during school hours (8:00/9:00 AM – 5:00/6:00 PM), subject to availability.

Tickets and Admission

No Admission Fee: Visits are free of charge; there is no ticketing system. All visits must be arranged in advance.
Special Events: Some events may require prior registration.

Accessibility

The building is partially accessible; some areas may pose challenges for those with reduced mobility due to its historic architecture. Contact the school in advance to discuss accommodations.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Offered primarily during open days or by special arrangement for educators, researchers, or groups. Request in advance via the school’s contact channels.
Public Events: Occasional talent shows, workshops, and conferences, such as “LIP Expressions,” showcase the school’s creative and participatory spirit.
Monthly “Commission Accueil” Sessions: For prospective students and families (October–April), providing an inside look at the school’s philosophy and operations.

What to Expect When Visiting

The Atmosphere

Exterior: The school features a red gate, student-created street art, and a welcoming garden area.
Interior: Functional and community-oriented, with collaborative workspaces and informal gathering spots. The building’s historic elements contrast with contemporary educational spaces.

Visitor Conduct

Respectful Behavior: As an active school, visitors must respect the learning environment and privacy of students and staff.
Photography: Prohibited inside the premises without explicit permission; permitted during public events with consent.
Language: Most communications and signage are in French; check in advance for English-speaking staff if needed.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Plan Ahead: Always contact the school in advance to arrange your visit.
Language Preparation: Basic French skills are helpful; bring a translator if needed.
Accessibility Needs: Notify the administration of any mobility or special requirements.
Nearby Amenities: The area offers cafés, bakeries, and shops for refreshments before or after your visit.
Safety: The 15th arrondissement is safe; use general urban precautions.

Nearby Attractions in the 15th Arrondissement

Parc Georges Brassens: A large, tranquil urban park nearby.
Convention Market: A lively street market for fresh produce and local specialties.
Paris Expo Porte de Versailles: A major exhibition and events center.
Montparnasse: Renowned for theaters, cinemas, and classic Parisian cafés.

Combine your visit to the LAP/LIP with these local highlights for a richer Parisian experience.

Current Context and Considerations

As of 2024, the school has undergone administrative changes and is subject to ongoing developments, including an investigation by the Ministry of National Education. These circumstances may affect access and the scheduling of events. All visitors should approach inquiries with sensitivity and respect for the school community.