Moving to a foreign country as a parent can be stressful. Not only are your children exposed to a new and unfamiliar language, but they also enter a different school system. At Edufax, we prioritize children’s educational needs by ensuring they benefit from the most suitable learning environment. We are well-acquainted with education systems in various countries, including Switzerland.
We help you find the right school in Switzerland
Relocating abroad can make finding the right school challenging—especially if you’re unfamiliar with the local education system. At Edufax, we guide families through the relocation process using a five-step approach. Parents begin by filling in a questionnaire, followed by a consultation. During the consultation, we discuss your child’s needs and answer any questions you may have. Afterward, you’ll receive an Educational Mobility Report that summarizes all the discussed information.
Insights into the Saudi education system
Primary school
Primary education in Switzerland starts at around age 6 and typically lasts between 4 to 6 years, depending on the canton. The country offers public and private primary schools as well as boarding schools. Private schools often follow educational philosophies such as Montessori, Waldorf, or religious-based education, allowing parents to choose a model that fits their parenting style.
For students who are new to Switzerland, language support programs are often available to help new students stream into the public education system. For example, families that Edufax has supported have had a smooth transition to Basel via the DaZ (Deutsch als Zweitsprache)
Secondary school
Secondary education in Switzerland is divided into lower and upper secondary levels.
- Lower secondary is for students aged 11 to 15 and builds on the primary curriculum. Students follow a general program that includes foreign languages, math, science, history, geography, music, physical education, economics, and art. Some students may choose more specialized tracks, such as the Gymnasium or Langgymnasium. At the end of each school year, students take assessments to determine promotion to the next grade.
- Upper secondary education is optional and begins after lower secondary. Students can choose from various academic or vocational tracks based on their interests and career ambitions. Options include business and economics, arts, languages, or science and mathematics.
An important implication
Language is a key factor in secondary school placement in Switzerland. Sticking to the same example, a student entering Basel without German proficiency may struggle to access the academically demanding Gymnasium, the direct pathway to university. Instead, many enter Switzerland’s respected vocational system, combining work and study, with flexible bridges like Berufsmaturität and Passerelle keeping higher education options open.
Different Swiss (international) schools near you
Switzerland offers a broad range of school options, including public, private, international, and boarding schools. Before moving, it’s important to explore and understand your options. At Edufax, we focus on your child’s educational needs and support parents through the process of transitioning to a new school. We provide personalized guidance to help you find the best fit for your family.
Education and advice: before, during and after an international move
At Edufax, we support families throughout the entire relocation journey—before, during, and after moving abroad. Our services include:
- Educational consultancy
- Translation of school reports
- Language courses (available online and in multiple languages)
- Bespoke educational solutions
Contact us
Are you planning to move to Switzerland and looking for primary or secondary school options? Edufax offers expert guidance to ensure your family experiences a smooth and successful transition. Contact us to explore the possibilities.
