Choosing a school for a move to Switzerland can feel like the most stressful part of relocating with children. Web sites seldom reveal what life is really like day to day, and each family has different priorities. This guide focuses on practical questions and a straightforward decision process — especially for families planning to relocate to Zürich.
First: Decide What “Good” Means for Your Family
Before comparing schools, establish your nonnegotiables. Most mistakes come from families weighing everything at once without a clear priorities list.
- Commute: daily travel time matters more than you expect.
- Curriculum: British / American / IB / local options.
- Language environment: what your child hears throughout the day.
- Support: learning support, ESL support, pastoral care.
- Culture fit: the school’s structure, discipline, and communication style.
How to Select Without Feeling Overwhelmed
A practical method that suits expat families well:
A straightforward process
- Shortlist by location first. In Zürich, traffic can turn a solid school into a daily hassle.
- Check current availability and the admissions timeline. Waiting lists are common.
- Inquire about the actual classroom situation. Class sizes, teacher turnover, communication approach.
- Ask about the support offered. ESL / learning support / transition assistance for new students.
- Schedule one visit (or virtual tour) per finalist. Rely on what you observe rather than glossy brochures.
Pro tip: Build a one-page checklist and rate each school after visits. It helps avoid the sense that everything feels identical.
Questions Worth Asking About Schools
These questions typically reveal more than broad “tell us about your program” discussions:
- What is the usual class size for this age group?
- How do you integrate new students mid-year?
- How do teachers communicate with parents (weekly updates, apps, email)?
- What does a typical day look like (start/end times, breaks, homework expectations)?
- How do you support children who are anxious or adjusting to a new country?
- What is your policy on language support (ESL) if needed?
- How is heat managed and indoor/outdoor time handled during hotter months?
Costs & Logistics (The Part Nobody Loves)
School decisions aren't just tuition. Consider the full routine cost:
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Choosing by reputation alone: the day-to-day schedule matters more.
- Ignoring commute time: it affects sleep, mood, and family life.
- Assuming “international” means the same everywhere: it doesn't.
- Not asking about support: transitions are real for kids.
- Waiting too long: admissions timelines can be tighter than expected.
In Summary
The most suitable school typically aligns with your family’s actual routine: its location, the support available, and everyday comfort for your child—not the one with the flashiest marketing.
If you'd like help sorting priorities for Zürich (commute, routines, questions to ask), reach out — or call +41 44 123 45 67.