The Swiss School Integration Guide for Expat Families
Swiss School Integration Guide for Expat Families: A Practical Handbook
This guide is written specifically for expat families in Switzerland by GOI, based on years of experience supporting children in Swiss schools with 1:1 online German tutoring.
The Swiss School Integration Guide for Expat Families
Starting school in Switzerland is a big step — for your child and for you as parents. New language, new routines, new expectations. This guide is designed to give you a clear, practical overview of how Swiss schools work, what DaZ support looks like, how homework is handled, and how you can help your child integrate academically and socially.
It's written specifically for expat families and based on many years of experience supporting children in Swiss schools. Every canton and every family is different — but the patterns, challenges and solutions are surprisingly similar.
In This Guide
- How Swiss schools work (federal system, cantons, streaming)
- Your first 30 days: step-by-step checklist
- DaZ language support: what to expect and how to request it
- The homework system and realistic time guidelines
- Gymnasium preparation: when to start, what's needed
- Canton-specific resources and official links
- Email templates for communicating with teachers
- Emergency contacts and crisis support
Goal: After reading this guide, you should feel less overwhelmed and more equipped to support your child's first years in Swiss school.
Key Terms
Swiss schools use specific terminology that may be unfamiliar. Understanding these terms will help you navigate conversations with teachers and school administrators.
DaZ (Deutsch als Zweitsprache)
School-based German support for non-native speakers. Typically 2–6 lessons per week, depending on canton and need.
Übertritt
The transition/selection process around Grade 5–6 that determines which secondary school track your child enters.
Gymnasium
The academic secondary track leading to university (Matura). Requires strong grades and often an entrance exam.
Sekundarschule
Middle-track secondary school with multiple pathways including vocational training and further academic options.
Realschule / Werkrealschule
Practical-track secondary school focused on vocational preparation and hands-on learning.
Hausaufgabenhilfe
Supervised homework support offered by many schools and community centres, often free or low-cost.
Elternabend
Parent evening — a formal meeting where teachers present class plans, expectations, and answer questions.
Schulleitung
School leadership/principal. The person to contact for serious concerns or when teacher communication doesn't resolve issues.
Schulsozialarbeit
School social work service for social, emotional, or family issues affecting school performance.
Zeugnis
School report card, typically issued twice per year (semester reports). Critical for Gymnasium selection.
Understanding Swiss Schools
The Federal System
Switzerland's education system is decentralized. Each of the 26 cantons manages its own schools, curricula and support systems. While the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education (EDK) coordinates certain standards, there are real differences in:
- when children start school,
- how DaZ (Deutsch als Zweitsprache) is organised,
- how children are streamed for secondary level,
- and how homework and grading are handled.
Key Facts
- Compulsory education: typically 11 years (including 2 years kindergarten)
- School year: mid-August to early July (varies by canton)
- Primary school: Grades 1–6 (often split into cycles)
- Secondary level I: Grades 7–9 (different ability tracks)
- Languages: German, French, Italian or Romansh, depending on region
- Grading scale: 1–6 (6 = best, 4 = passing)
The Three Pillars of Swiss Education
1. Academic Selection (Übertritt)
Around grades 5–6, students are evaluated for secondary placement:
- Gymnasium: Academic track → university
- Sekundarschule: Middle track → various options, including vocational and further studies
- Realschule / Werkrealschule: Practical track → vocational paths
2. Integration Philosophy
Non-native speakers are usually placed in regular classes with additional DaZ support instead of fully segregated international streams. The idea is: learn the language in context, with peers, and receive extra help where needed.
3. Parental Involvement
Parents are expected to be active partners: supervising homework, attending meetings, and serving as a bridge between home and school cultures. Swiss schools assume that home routines and school expectations work together.
Your First 30 Days
The first month sets the tone. Your goal is to understand expectations, establish routines, and secure language support quickly.
Week 1 Checklist
Days 1–7: Foundation
Enrollment, documentation, first contact with teacher and class. Learn school routes and schedules. Set up communication apps.
Days 8–14: Orientation
Understand timetable, DaZ offer, homework routine. Set clear after-school and bedtime schedules. Establish a homework spot at home.
Days 15–21: Connection
Arrange first playdates, join a club, attend any parent info events. Start a simple German routine at home (10 minutes daily).
Days 22–30: Review & Adjust
Check how your child feels about school. If there are problems (crying, refusal, stress), contact the teacher early. Don't wait.
Language Support (DaZ)
What is DaZ?
DaZ (Deutsch als Zweitsprache) is school-based German support for children who do not have German as a first language. It is meant to help them follow lessons, interact socially and gradually reach the level of their peers.
Implementation and number of lessons vary by canton and even by school. Some schools offer intensive DaZ for new arrivals; others only a few lessons per week. It's important to understand your child's specific entitlement.
Beginner Level
- 4–6 DaZ lessons per week
- Focus on basic communication and school vocabulary
- Often pull-out model (small group outside main class)
- Typical duration: 6–12 months
Intermediate Level
- 2–4 lessons per week
- Academic vocabulary (subjects like science, history)
- Mix of pull-out and in-class support
- Typical duration: 12–18 months
Advanced Level
- 1–2 lessons per week
- Focus on writing, grammar and exam preparation
- Often in-class support or small focus groups
- Duration: as needed, often until Sekundarstufe
What Research Shows
Studies on second-language acquisition in school contexts distinguish between:
- BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills): 1–2 years for social/conversational fluency
- CALP (Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency): 5–7 years for full academic language parity
This is why DaZ support often continues into secondary school — and why additional tutoring can accelerate the process significantly, especially for academic German.
Request Assessment in Writing
If DaZ isn't offered automatically, request an assessment. Simple German email:
"Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren, wir bitten um eine Sprachstandserhebung für unser Kind [Name], Klasse [X]. Mit freundlichen Grüssen, [Ihr Name]"
Follow up in person or by phone if you do not receive a clear response within one week.
Canton-Specific Resources
Because each canton controls its own school system, it's essential to use canton-specific sites for accurate, up-to-date information.
Zürich
- Bildungsdirektion Zürich – Volksschule
- DaZ-Programme – Deutsch als Zweitsprache
- Übertritte & Gymnasium
- Elternbildung Schweiz
Gymnasium Note: Zürich uses a central entrance exam (Zentrale Aufnahmeprüfung) for Gymnasium admission. Exam dates are typically in March.
Kanton Zürich Volksschule City of Zürich SchoolsBern
- Bildungs- und Kulturdirektion Bern – Volksschule
- Deutsch als Zweitsprache (DaZ) – Kanton Bern
- Stadt Bern – Schulen
Note: Bern is bilingual (German/French). Make sure you know which language zone you're in.
Stadt Bern VolksschuleBasel-Stadt / Basel-Landschaft
Basel-Stadt VolksschulenZug
Note: Zug has a high proportion of international families. Schools are generally experienced with integration.
Kanton Zug SchulenGeneva (French-speaking)
- Département de l'instruction publique (DIP)
- School Enrollment Geneva
- Accueil des élèves allophones (FLS)
Note: Geneva schools are French-speaking. Language support is FLS (Français Langue Seconde), not DaZ.
Other Cantons
| Canton | Department | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Aargau | Departement Bildung, Kultur und Sport | ag.ch – Volksschule |
| St. Gallen | Bildungsdepartement | sg.ch – Volksschule |
| Luzern | Bildungs- und Kulturdepartement | volksschulbildung.lu.ch |
| Ticino | DECS (Italian) | ti.ch – Scuola |
| Vaud | Département de la formation (French) | vd.ch – Scolarité |
| Graubünden | Erziehungs- und Kulturdepartement | gr.ch – Volksschule |
| Schwyz | Bildungsdepartement | sz.ch – Volksschulen |
| Thurgau | Departement für Erziehung und Kultur | av.tg.ch |
The Homework System
Swiss Homework Philosophy
Homework in Swiss schools is meant to build independence, organisational skills and awareness of learning gaps. Parents are expected to supervise and create a calm environment — but not to do the work for their children.
Time Guidelines (approximate)
- Grades 1–2: Up to 30 minutes per day
- Grades 3–4: Up to 45 minutes per day
- Grades 5–6: Up to 60 minutes per day
- Secondary: Up to 90 minutes per day
These are general guidelines and may vary by canton and teacher. If homework consistently takes longer, this is worth discussing with the teacher.
Daily Homework Routine
After School
Short break, snack, some fresh air. This resets your child's nervous system. Avoid screens during this break.
Review Time
Check the agenda or homework notebook together. Clarify what is expected. Let your child explain the tasks to you.
Work Time
Start with the hardest task while energy is highest. Use 10–15 minute blocks with short breaks for younger children.
Parent Check
Look at completeness rather than perfection. If something was impossible, write a note to the teacher. They appreciate honesty.
When Homework Takes Too Long
If your child regularly needs much longer than the guidelines:
- Log homework time for one week (subject + minutes).
- Share the log with the teacher.
- Ask whether tasks can be adjusted or reduced.
- Discuss whether additional support (DaZ, tutoring) is needed.
Swiss teachers generally prefer honest feedback over quiet suffering. Don't wait until your child is burnt out.
Gymnasium Preparation
For many expat families, Gymnasium (the academic secondary track leading to university) is a key goal. Understanding the timeline and requirements is essential — preparation should start earlier than many families expect.
The Reality Check
Selection for Gymnasium typically happens around Grade 5–6. By then, your child needs:
- Strong German reading and writing skills (not just conversational)
- Solid maths and science basics
- Consistent grades (usually 5.0+ average in key subjects)
- A positive teacher recommendation (in most cantons)
- In some cantons (e.g., Zürich): passing an entrance exam
This is not the time to start preparation — it should already be well underway.
Gymnasium Preparation Timeline
Grade 3–4: Foundation
Focus on reading fluency and basic writing. Identify any learning gaps early. Build a strong homework routine. This is the time to catch up if DaZ progress is slower than expected.
Grade 4–5: Assessment & Targeted Support
Check your canton's Gymnasium requirements. Start targeted support if needed (academic German, maths, writing skills). Build academic vocabulary beyond everyday conversation.
Grade 5: Decision Year
Grades, teacher recommendation, and (in some cantons) entrance exam. Intensive preparation should be complete. Focus on exam practice and confidence-building.
Grade 6+: Alternatives If Needed
If Gymnasium wasn't achieved, Sekundarschule A-track remains an excellent path. Later Gymnasium entry is possible via Berufsmaturität (BMS) or Passerelle after apprenticeship.
Canton Variations
Gymnasium entry requirements vary significantly:
- Zürich: Central entrance exam (Zentrale Aufnahmeprüfung) — typically in March
- Bern: Primarily based on grades and teacher recommendation
- Basel: Mix of grades and exam
- Zug: Grades-based with recommendation
Always check your specific canton's process and deadlines.
When to Consider External Support
- Your child's German is behind grade level
- School DaZ is limited (2 lessons/week or less)
- Gymnasium is a realistic goal but grades are borderline
- Your child needs exam preparation (Zürich)
- Academic writing is a weakness
Targeted 1:1 tutoring can accelerate progress significantly — especially when focused on academic German rather than just conversation.
Finding Support Networks
School integration is easier when your family has support — from school, the community and other parents.
School-Based Support
- Hausaufgabenhilfe: Homework clubs or support groups
- Schulsozialarbeit: School social work for social/emotional issues
- Schulpsychologischer Dienst: Evaluation and counselling
- Mittagstisch: Supervised lunch with peers
- Aufgabenhilfe: After-school homework supervision
Community Resources
- Gemeinschaftszentrum: Community centres with children's activities
- Quartierzentrum: Neighbourhood hubs
- Familienzentrum: Parent–child groups and advice
- Local libraries: Quiet space, German books, often events
- Ludothek: Toy/game libraries — great for German practice
Sport & Activities
- football.ch – local clubs & leagues
- Turnverein: Gymnastics and general sports
- pfadi.swiss – Swiss scouts
- Music schools: Often subsidised and excellent for integration
- Swimming clubs: Very popular in Switzerland
Parent Networks
- Join class WhatsApp group(s) — ask at enrollment if one exists.
- Attend Elternabend (parent evenings) even if your German is not perfect.
- Search Facebook for "[Your City] Expat Parents" or "[Your City] International Families".
- Connect at school events, sport clubs and lunch supervision.
- Use online communities like Expat.com Switzerland Forum or InterNations Switzerland.
- Check English Forum Switzerland for advice and discussions.
Integration Timeline
Every child is different, but we see similar patterns in how long full integration takes. It's important to set realistic expectations and celebrate small steps.
Realistic Expectations
For most children, full integration — academically and socially — takes 18–24 months. Some need less, some a bit more. That is normal.
Remember: Social fluency (chatting with friends) develops faster than academic fluency (understanding complex texts, writing essays). Don't be fooled by playground German.
| Phase | Timeline | Academic Progress | Social Progress |
|---|---|---|---|
| Survival | Months 1–3 | Understanding ~20–30% of lessons, basic words/phrases | Watching others, few words, emotionally tired |
| Foundation | Months 4–9 | Understanding 40–60%, can follow main topics | First friendships, more participation |
| Growth | Months 10–18 | Understanding 70–80%, grades improving | Regular playdates, sense of belonging |
| Integration | Months 19–24 | Near peer level, may still need support for complex tasks | Comfortable in class and activities |
| Mastery | Year 3+ | Within normal range for class | No visible difference from peers |
Get Swiss-ready in 30 days
Free 30-minute consultation to map DaZ needs, homework routine, and Gymnasium pathway for your child.
Book your free 30-minute trialEmail Templates for Parents
Communicating with Swiss schools can feel daunting if your German is limited. Here are ready-to-use templates for common situations. Keep them simple and polite — Swiss teachers appreciate directness.
1. Request a Meeting
Sehr geehrte Frau / Sehr geehrter Herr [Lehrername],
wir möchten gerne einen Termin für ein Gespräch über die Entwicklung unseres Kindes [Name] vereinbaren. Bitte teilen Sie uns mögliche Termine mit.
Mit freundlichen Grüssen,
[Ihr Name]
2. Report Absence (Illness)
Sehr geehrte Frau / Sehr geehrter Herr [Lehrername],
unser Kind [Name] ist heute leider krank und kann nicht zur Schule kommen. Wir melden uns, sobald [er/sie] wieder gesund ist.
Mit freundlichen Grüssen,
[Ihr Name]
3. Request DaZ Assessment
Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,
wir bitten um eine Sprachstandserhebung für unser Kind [Name], Klasse [X]. Wir möchten sicherstellen, dass [er/sie] die passende Deutschförderung erhält.
Mit freundlichen Grüssen,
[Ihr Name]
4. Discuss Homework Concerns
Sehr geehrte Frau / Sehr geehrter Herr [Lehrername],
die Hausaufgaben dauern bei [Name] regelmässig länger als [X] Minuten. Wir möchten dies gerne mit Ihnen besprechen. Dürfen wir einen Termin vereinbaren?
Mit freundlichen Grüssen,
[Ihr Name]
5. Request Homework Adjustment
Sehr geehrte Frau / Sehr geehrter Herr [Lehrername],
[Name] hatte diese Woche Schwierigkeiten mit [spezifische Aufgabe]. Wäre es möglich, die Aufgaben vorübergehend anzupassen, bis [er/sie] aufgeholt hat?
Mit freundlichen Grüssen,
[Ihr Name]
6. Ask About Gymnasium Requirements
Sehr geehrte Frau / Sehr geehrter Herr [Lehrername],
wir möchten uns über die Voraussetzungen für den Übertritt ins Gymnasium informieren. Könnten Sie uns mitteilen, wie [Name]s aktuelle Leistungen einzuschätzen sind und was wir tun können, um [ihn/sie] zu unterstützen?
Mit freundlichen Grüssen,
[Ihr Name]
Tips for Communication
- Keep emails short and specific
- Use "Sie" (formal "you") and formal greetings
- If you need to speak in English, ask politely: "Wäre es möglich, auf Englisch zu sprechen?"
- Bring a German-speaking friend to important meetings if needed
- Schools can sometimes arrange interpreters for critical meetings — ask
Common Challenges
Academic Challenges
The "Playground German" Trap
Your child speaks German fluently with friends but struggles with schoolwork. This is normal — social language develops faster than academic language.
Solution: Focus on reading, writing, and academic vocabulary. Consider targeted tutoring for school German, not just conversation.
Social Integration Issues
No Friends After 3 Months
- Ask the teacher how your child behaves in class.
- Arrange structured playdates (2–3 children instead of a whole group).
- Join at least one regular club or activity.
- Talk openly with your child about how they feel.
- Consider whether cultural differences are playing a role.
Cultural Misunderstandings
- Independence: Swiss children walk to school alone early (often from Kindergarten); this is seen as normal and healthy.
- Punctuality: Being even 5 minutes late is noticed and frowned upon.
- All-weather outdoor play: Children go outside in almost any weather. "There's no bad weather, only bad clothing."
- Quiet hours (Ruhezeiten): Respecting quiet times (no noisy play on Sundays or late evenings) matters in the neighbourhood.
- Snack culture (Znüni): Pack a healthy mid-morning snack — no sweets, often fruit or bread.
When to Seek Help
Red Flags Requiring Immediate Action
- School refusal lasting more than several days.
- Signs of bullying or isolation.
- No visible progress after a semester despite support.
- Homework consistently taking double the guideline time.
- Frequent stomach aches or headaches before school.
- Significant behaviour changes at home.
Steps:
- Contact the class teacher (email or meeting).
- Involve Schulsozialarbeit or school counsellor.
- Ask about Schulpsychologischer Dienst for further evaluation if needed.
- Don't wait — early intervention is always better.
Digital Tools & Apps
School Communication Apps
Swiss schools increasingly use apps to communicate with parents. Make sure you know which one your school uses and how to access it.
Klapp
One of the most common school communication apps.
- Messages from teachers
- Absence reporting
- Event sign-ups
Escola
Alternative communication platform.
- Document sharing
- Calendar integration
- Grade tracking
Pupil
Growing platform in German-speaking Switzerland.
- Absence management
- School calendar
- Direct messaging
Microsoft Teams / Google Classroom
Used in some schools for assignments.
- Homework distribution
- Video calls
- Group projects
Learning Platforms
Many Swiss schools use online platforms for extra practice. Ask your child's teacher which ones are relevant.
| Platform | Purpose | Cost | Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antolin | Reading comprehension | Free (school provides) | antolin.de |
| Anton | Various subjects | Free | anton.app |
| SRF mySchool | Educational videos | Free | srf.ch/myschool |
| Schlaukopf | Practice exercises | Free | schlaukopf.ch |
| Lernareal | Swiss curriculum aligned | Free | lernareal.ch |
| Duolingo | Language learning | Free/Premium | duolingo.com |
Emergency Contacts
Crisis Support Numbers
- 147: Pro Juventute (children/youth helpline) – 24/7, free – 147.ch
- 143: Die Dargebotene Hand (general crisis) – 24/7, free – 143.ch
- 0848 35 45 55: Elternnotruf (parent helpline) – elternnotruf.ch
- 117: Police
- 144: Medical emergency / Ambulance
- 145: Poison control
School-Specific Contacts
Keep these numbers saved in your phone:
- Class teacher's email and phone
- School secretary's direct line
- Schulleitung (principal)
- Schulsozialarbeit (school social work)
- Hausaufgabenhilfe (homework support) contact
- Mittagstisch (lunch supervision) contact
Useful Websites
- Swiss Education Server: educa.ch
- EDK (Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education): edk.ch
- ch.ch (Official Swiss Portal): ch.ch/education
- State Secretariat for Migration: sem.admin.ch
- SwissInfo (news for expats): swissinfo.ch
Remember
Every child's integration journey is unique. This guide provides general information based on common experiences and official resources. Always verify specific details with your local school and cantonal authorities. Regulations change, and implementation varies between schools even within the same canton.
Most importantly: Be patient with your child and with yourself. Integration takes time, but with the right support and consistent routines, success is absolutely possible.
Accelerate Your Family's Swiss Integration
Don't let language barriers or system confusion slow your child down. A little structured support can change everything.
German Online Institute (GOI)
Personalised online German tutoring for expat families in Switzerland
For Your Children:
- Targeted DaZ support aligned with school curriculum
- Homework help and exam preparation
- Gymnasium preparation (language and content)
- Friendly, experienced teachers who understand expat kids
For Parents:
- German for everyday life and school communication
- Business German for your career
- Support for understanding teacher letters and reports
- Culture coaching for Swiss norms and expectations
Flexible Learning Options:
- 1:1 lessons: child or parent-focused
- Family packages: combined sessions for siblings or parent + child
- Custom schedules: afternoons, evenings, weekends
- Fully online: no travel, works from anywhere in Switzerland
Start your Swiss school journey with support.
"The German Online Institute transformed our Swiss experience. Our kids finally feel at home at school."
— Sarah M., Expat parent in Zürich
Tip: Mention this Swiss School Integration Guide in your trial call so your teacher knows you're a school-focused family.
