When will my child start school?
In most cantons, children attend kindergarten from the age of four.
The Swiss authorities online
Compulsory schooling
Compulsory education consists of primary and lower-secondary school. It is free for every child. The communes ensure that all children are able to attend a school in their local area.
The first two years of primary level are organised either as kindergarten or first learning cycle. A new phase of a child’s life begins when they attend primary level; they become more independent, learn to organise themselves and master the journey to school.
Topics
School holidays in Switzerland
School children have about 13 weeks of school holidays. The dates of school holidays are set by the cantons and education authorities. The dates vary from region to region.
Length of compulsory education in Switzerland
There are eleven years of compulsory education. The primary level covers eight years, the lower-secondary level three years. The first primary years are spent in kindergarten or the first learning cycle.
Support at school for children from immigrant backgrounds
Taught language courses in the local national language and courses in their home language and culture can help children from immigrant backgrounds succeed in their daily life at school.
A safe journey to school – on foot, by bike or by bus
The journey to school is a big deal for children: they travel alone or with other children and learn how to find their way around in the vicinity of road traffic. Parents are responsible for their child’s journey to school.
Apprenticeship or school? What happens after compulsory education?
Young people can get careers advice when deciding whether to do an apprenticeship or continue in general education.
Schooling for children with special educational needs
Children and young people with special educational needs are integrated into mainstream education where possible, and receive special support. This system is organised by the individual cantons.