History of F.A.C.E.

Founded in 1975, FACE has since expanded and developed a unique educational model that takes a varied and holistic approach to learning and encourages students to develop an open mind.

The school belongs to the Commission scolaire de Montréal (CSDM) and has approximately 1300 students, a third of whom come from the English Montreal School Board (EMSB).

The historical building that houses the FACE School was built in two phases (1914 and 1924) and was designed by the brothers Edward and W.S. Maxwell, influential architects at the time who were behind many important buildings in the city, including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. The FACE School is a five-story building with a total floor area of 27,570 m². It is constructed from solid masonry with structural steel components. The building design is based on classical composition principles and specifically the Beaux-Arts style. Its H-shape separates the boys’ and girls’ wings while providing common spaces in the central area. It is a rare example of neoclassical monumental architecture.

Located in the borough Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, the FACE School is a part of not only the Mount Royal Historic and Natural District (recognized by the province and the city) but also the neighbourhood near Sherbrooke West and University, an area with great heritage value. The building must be rehabilitated according to best conservation practices.

This 100-year-old building has not undergone any major transformations or repairs over the years.

Due to the scope of the required rehabilitation, all FACE students and employees must be relocated for at least the duration of the work.

School Profile

FACE is a unique, one-of-a-kind school in Quebec. Located for more than 30 years in the old Montreal High School, an historic building possessed of an old-world charm in the heart of the City, our school welcomes students to elementary and secondary classes, where Francophones and Anglophones alike share the premises and the program in a joyous and healthy cohabitation. The young soon grow older and they never hesitate to lend a hand to the wee ones.

The stability of our staff and their commitment contribute greatly to the sense of belonging and security that prevails in our School.

What Do Students Take Away From Their Face Experience?

There is definitely a FACE profile : A FACE alumnus is eloquent, responsible, committed and creative, but first and foremost, he or she is a student with a heart !

While FACE is part of the Commission Scolaire de Montréal (CSDM), it also takes students from the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) into its magnificent building.

The CSDM is not a bilingual school but the EMSB Elementary Program is. However, students from both school boards are grouped together for instrumental and vocal music classes and other occasions (outings, concerts, extracurricular activities), regardless of their language of instruction.