His motto is "Sint rupes virtutis iter", identical to that of Tulle which means "The difficulties are the path of virtue".

A resolution of the City Council 2 April 1878 proposes the idea of transforming the college into high school.

A decree of 20 March 1883, signed by the hand of President Jules Grévy create the High School of Tulle.

The buildings are made to provide comfort to students with large windows, high ceilings, heated rooms and an ideal living environment, which is revolutionary for its time.

4 August 1914, just three days after the start of World War I, the school serves as a barracks in the 300th Infantry Regiment.