When will my child start school?
Children attend school (kindergarten or first learning cycle) from the age of four.
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.
Children attend school (kindergarten or first learning cycle) from the age of four.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Young people can get careers advice when deciding whether to do an apprenticeship or continue in general education.
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.