Hi, we are thinking about a move to Geneva and would welcome some feedback particularly from English speakers as our two children only speak English (currently!). They are 4 and 2 yrs of age.

The English Geneva School is full at present. I've identified Collegue Du Leman and the International Geneva School as having English language programmes.

Are there any others, perhaps smaller, preschool type of places in or around Geneva?

Also does anyone have any feedback about the schools I mentioned?

With regard to accomodation, I suspect it probably depends on which school we pick or perhaps vice versa but are there any areas which are particularly popular with the English speaking community? We are keen to meet people of all nationalities but to help settle the kids it would be good to be near people with whom they could play and talk to etc as the whole move will be very unsettling for them.

In terms of rent, what should we allow for a 4 bedroom place, difficult to put a figure on it but an approx range would be helpful.

Many thanks!

hi, I live in Geneva, but as I dont have any kids I dont think I can really help you too much with schooling details... you might want to post your question again here........
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http://geneva.angloinfo.com/forum/default.asp
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thats an english language forum based in Geneva

Hi I don't know if I am too late in replying. I just joined and saw your post. We moved here in Aug 2006 and I have two kids 5 and 3 yrs and both go to College Du Leman. Both of them speak only English and going to an international school helped them a lot.

I was wondering if you found out anything more about schools. My family (4 yrs and 2 yrs) is looking to also move to Geneva and would love to hear what you found out. Thanks, Dan

Hello,
I moved here with my daughter a year and a half ago and would like to share my opinions and experiences with you to give you a firsthand perspective. If you want to integrate into this society then you should first find a place to live and you'll then be required to enroll your child in the local public school within that district. Things are very different here, not like what you're accustomed to. My daughter has been here, going to a public school for 8 months, and is now tri-lingual and has many friends. The schools are very small and all about equal (within reason) in providing a quality education and environment. They have a two hour lunch break in which many children walk home for lunch. (and yes, this area is very safe as all children walk to and from to school) Those who do stay at school for lunch get a gourmet meal for 3chf/day. They have a 4 day school week and after school programs. They all learn to swim, ski, and go camping and such. Wedensdays they have no school as this time is used for Dr.'s appointments but this may be changed soon, there is a vote planned. The early years are focused on languages (3 required) and social skills (my daughter's class goes to a restaurant for lunch to practice for the real world). It's not uncommon to see kids on the tram or buses getting around.

So, don't worry so much about the kids fitting in, work on integrating yourself and they will follow. The housing issue is quite a problem but if you throw enough money at it then you'll find something fairly quickly. Expect to pay twice as much as you want for half the space you need. I live in the Old City and am quite happy here as I hardly use my car. The city is very easy to get around: my door to the airport in 11 min. by tram/ train if you time it right!!!

All in all, Geneva is a great palce to live and raise a family.(but I'm sure you knew that)

About Geneva, Switzerland

Set along the River Rhone with the majestic Alps towering in the background, Geneva commands attention. As the home of the International Red Cross and former home of the League of Nations, the city also possesses a multicultural flair. Indeed, French culture and language are still predominating aspects of Geneva today. Geneva has always exuded a chic superiority. The beautifully manicured city abounds with graceful mansions, gull-laden lakes, cosmopolitan stores, and elite restaurants. The heart of the city is called the rive gauche, which includes the charming old town area. Visitors should take time to stroll the quaint boutiques and galleries along the cobblestone Grand Rue. Also check out the Cathedrale St. Pierre, where John Calvin preached; the Reformation Monument, dedicated to leaders of the Protestant Reformation; and the Jet d'Eau, the highest fountain in Europe.


Call me if you need me...

Thanks for the info, how old do kids start school in Geneva? What are your thoughts on private versus public schools?

Cheers

You can always compare prices for houses and appartments at
http://www.homegate.ch/ it also lists many estate agents that you can contact yourself....

Hi, you don't say how long you are coming for. With the kids so young, I think it would be a really wasted opportunity not to put them in the local school. They'd learn French so quickly and have it for the rest of their lives. Your four year old would start in enfantine and you can easily find a preschool for your 2 year old. However, at that age they don't have many hours in school - lots of time off to explore the area!

My kids - now 9 and 12 - have done all their schooling in French and have English at home - they are completely bilingual and I've got to know the locals better too.

There are lots of English language mother-toddler groups which is a great way to meet people. The American International Women's Club has one. I suggest you buy the book "Know It All Passport" which will give you lots of ideas.

Hi, The Know-it-all-passport is a really useful guide to families living in and around Geneva. It gives you loads of info on schools, playgroups, parks, child friendly restaurants and more. They also have a web site www.knowitall.ch

Hi Goodtobehere

How old was your daughter when you moved and had she started some form of schooling already before your move? My daughter has started in the French system but I am considering moving her into the Swiss system notwithstanding that they learn less compared to the French system.

What are you doing to help your child read / write in English if this is not covered in school?

Could anyone tell me which quartiers have good state primary schools (focussing on rive gauche and geneva centre).

Do children stay on for lunch even if one parent does not work?

Thank you so much in advance.

Hello, new to this thread and I think there are a few things which haven't been covered.
Firstly I don't live in Geneva and each area does have a slightly different system.
In Vaud premiere and second enfantine is not obligatory (this may have changed) which means that the state can not begin to teach children until the first primary when all the towns children will be there so non will be left out. my point is if in your area the first year is not obligatory then your child will be going to school to learn social skills (how to sit down still) how to hold a pencil and other things he/she probably knows already.
Later on when they are about 11 (i think) children are streamed, from what I have managed to gather as information, it is the teachers who decide which school your child will go into. NB. university path is one school, there are two other forms of schools which is where your child is sent according to how they believe they are gifted. if your child fails to shine at 11/12 then thier fate may be sealed. I have known incredibly gifted swiss youths who did not perform at the correct age and when i suggested they go to University they explained that they couldn't because they hadn't attended the right school. if you are only here for a few years then this may not be an issue for you.
I have 5 1/2 year old born here and I chose a private school which is bilingual French/German and he has English at home. His school offers the university path, he goes from 9-4 pm giving me a full day at work 4 1/2 days a week. There are children who have no french and are in his class and have adapted in no time. My son has friends in our community who go to the local school and already I see the difference in the education.
if you are here for a long period.... do your research well. I went to school in the UK and am not fond of private schools but when I saw the level of education offered at the state school for my sons first year, I made my decision.
good luck

hi ı m going to move to geneva soontime and ı didnt rental house still for me please help me ı m looking rental house 2+1 (2 rooms and 1 holl)
near to meyrin