The original building, which unfortunately exists no more, dates back to before World War I and was built by the Franciscan Capuchin Order. The building was inhabited by the followers of this sect for many years. After the National Ministry of Education decided to open a high school in the Kadikoy district, negotiations that lasted many years took place between the ministry and the Capuchins. In 1955 the school opened as Kadıköy Maarif. In 1968 a second building was added to the school which served as a dormitory. In 1976 and 1977 two more buildings were added. For many years it was ranked as the biggest highschool in the Balkans.