In 1588, the four-grade latin school converted to a seven-grade gymnasium, which was called the "Athenaeum" for the first time in 1635.

In the 1670s, the Athenaeum lost its reputation, which continued in the 18th century due to the regression of importance of Stade.

In 1830, the Athenaeum introduced the opportunity to take a maturity exam, which allowed them to study at universities.

About five to eight students per year were successful taking the exam, who mainly came from Stade and its vicinity.

The number of students increased to 242, which caused a huge lack of space, so the Athenaeum moved to the "Carl-Diercke-house".

Like many other German schools, it accepted the national socialist orientation, but headmaster Dr. Hans Wohltmann [nds], who remained in office from 1929 to 1950, cared for continuity despite political upheaval.

In 2013, the Athenaeum celebrated its 425-year anniversary with numerous events such as theme days, lectures by former students, art exhibitions and concerts.

The school's observatory built in 1966 by Dr. Karl Otto Palmer is used by the astronomy working group under the direction of Dr. Hans-Otto Carmesin.

It was the intention of the organizers to open the students for new topics and to get the local businesses into the Athenaeum.

In 2013, another building destroyed by a water damage has been completely renovated, so the rooms of the Realschule Camper Höhe are no longer needed.