La Petite École was opened by Rita Bourdiol – Ruane in Rathmines in 1987. The following year the school moved to Rathgar and remained open for another two years. In 1990 Rita accepted a teaching job at École Active Bilingue Jeanine Manuel (now École Jeannine Manuel) in Paris, France. La Petite École closed its doors and the Montessori materials were put into storage for a future date. That day came in September 1999 when La Petite École re-opened in Clane, Co. Kildare. In September 2015 due to the increased demand for places the school moved from its premises in Hillview to Scoil Bhríde, Girls National School where it is currently located.