Hi,

I am thinking of taking up employment in Zurich. However i have 2 children ages 7 & 5. Neither of them speak German or French. Does anyone have any advice on schools. Will they both have to go to IB schools, which i understand can be fairly costly. Or are there english speaking State schools

Thanks

No english speaking state schools as far as I know in Zurich....
For us there was no option but sticking our child in the local school.... its amazing how fast they pick up the language, kids learn so much faster than us adults.

You won't find any english speaking state schools for kids that age because english isn't a "state" language in Switzerland. Try sending them to local Swiss schools - they'll learn very fast and integrate much more easily.

State schooling in Zurich is in German.The younger child would be the right age for kindergarten, which would be a great opportunity to learn the language and make friends in the neighbourhood. The older child would be in first class, and would recieve help to get started in German. You wouldn't believe how well and how fast they can learn at that age. If they are actually going to live here, it is only fair to help them speak the local language, especially if it may be long term.

Obviously much depends on how long you plan to stay in Switzerland. If for the long term then there seems to me to be little doubt that sending them to the state school is best. Not only will they learn German, but they will help you learn it too

Take a look at this forum area (Family Matters), there are many reports and explanations available already. I'll keep this thread open in case you have more specific questions.

hi,
At what age do the children start in First Class ? Is there no requirements to be speaking German to start in a state school ? Just that this is what i was told

English speaking school in Switzerland
The school system is being voted on?

School for foreign kids - international/private/public?
kids in swiss school


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Given the ages of your children, even if you are coming for a fixed term, say 2 to 3 years, I would still be inclined to suggest local school as your children will learn the local language and have friends who live in their neighbourhood. If you then decided to stay, your children would be well integrated. International school is an expensive option but will allow your children to return to school in their home country with greater ease. School systems back home can be quite hard on kids who have been schooled in the local language of another country.

I sent my 14 year old to state school and it is the best decision I made. The school is supportive, creative and really stretches him. He has gone from no German to a great deal and is well on track for being fluent.

He was invited to be the English assistant and an English speaking after school lesson and this was also an advantage to his ability to practice, while not feeling the odd one out.

He is also involved with the Youth Service, which he got from being introduced to them through school.

Best thing I ever did was take a chance and get him integrated in the local school.

Gal