Founded in 1835
The internat association "Les Internats Jacques Brocquart asbl" has existed since 1991. It brings together venerable institutions such as the former Pensionnat Saint-Joseph in Diekirch (founded in 1835), the Pensionnat Saint-Joseph in Ettelbrück, the Convict Episcopal in Luxembourg City (dating from 1872) or the institution Saint-Willibrord in Echternach, which has existed since 1883. Some of the internats steeped in tradition are still located in the same place today, others have changed their location. With state support, modern, family-supporting internats have emerged from former Catholic elite institutions. Today, seven institutions belong to the internat association "Les Internats Jacques Brocquart asbl". We are therefore the institution in Luxembourg with the longest experience in the professional and contemporary management of internats.
While internats were set up by the Catholic Church in the 19th century to provide higher education for children from the countryside, the opportunities and needs of children have changed over time. But there are still children who need support to successfully complete school. Our internats are responding to these new challenges and transforming themselves. Internats are becoming open to all and for all types of schools. Learning is understood and supported differently. Large dormitories are being replaced by single rooms. Children are seen as part of their family system. Independence is encouraged, voluntariness is made possible. Participatory structures are introduced. Children's rights are respected. But internats not only change, they also remain true to themselves. They continue to stand for community, respect, tolerance and helpfulness.
2026
During 2025, Les Internats a.s.b.l. and arcus a.s.b.l. entered into dialogue with the aim of transferring the internat services to arcus. For many years, both organisations have been united by a shared set of values and a strong commitment to supporting children, young people, and families in Luxembourg. Since January 2026, arcus a.s.b.l. has assumed responsibility for the internat services.
With the transfer of the internats in 2026, the staff of Les Internats also joined arcus. Their expertise and many years of experience further strengthen arcus’s existing network of competencies and expand its range of educational support services. This step marks a new chapter in their shared history and reinforces collaboration in the field of social and educational care for children and young people in Luxembourg.