The Swiss education system is known for its structure, which allows children to gradually develop skills and choose an academic or vocational path. Each canton may have its own peculiarities, but in general the system is organised so that children can adapt to the workload and receive an education that suits their interests and abilities. More about the Swiss school system here: https://swiss-partner.biz/blog/how-the-school-system-works-in-switzerland.

Kindergarten

Education in Switzerland begins with kindergarten, which is attended by children between the ages of 4 and 6. Kindergarten attendance is not compulsory, but almost all parents choose this stage to prepare their children for school. Kindergarten in Switzerland helps children to adapt to the community, develops social skills and prepares them for the basics of academic life in a relaxed, playful way.

Primary school (Primarschule)

Primary school starts at the age of 6-7 and lasts approximately 4-6 years, depending on the canton. At this stage children begin to learn the basic subjects: maths, languages, the world around them and physical education. The main objective of primary school is to develop children's reading, writing and arithmetic skills, as well as an introduction to basic natural and social sciences.

Secondary School (Sekundarschule)

After primary school, children move on to secondary school, which is divided into three levels depending on the academic ability and future plans of the pupils. In secondary school, children between the ages of 12 and 15 can begin to choose areas that will prepare them for either an academic career or a professional career. At this stage they can begin to study subjects in depth that match their interests.

Vocational and academic pathways

After secondary school, children choose an academic pathway (grammar school) or a vocational pathway (vocational schools and colleges). Gymnasium prepares you for university, while vocational programmes allow you to learn a profession and start working immediately after your studies. The Swiss vocational education system is very well developed, offering internships and apprenticeships.

Universities and higher education

For those who have chosen the academic path, the next stage is universities and higher education. Switzerland offers quality higher education, especially in fields such as economics, engineering, medicine and the arts. Most of the country's universities have close links with business, which offers students excellent career prospects.

Conclusion

The stages of schooling in Switzerland allow every child to find his or her own path and choose a career that suits his or her interests and abilities. An educational structure based on freedom of choice and a variety of programmes makes Switzerland one of the best countries for quality and individually oriented education.