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Academic Excellence

La Garenne’s academic programmes are crafted to inspire a lifelong love of learning, helping each student to reveal and develop their unique talents. Our students follow an international curriculum guided by teachers who are passionate about helping them succeed. Learning at La Garenne is highly personalised, something of which we are very proud. Students’ strengths, interests and goals shape and tailor their learning experience, which supports and challenges each individual throughout their study pathways.

Small class sizes, meaningful feedback, and a broad academic programme give our students the space to explore ideas, grow confidence, and build skills that will serve them for life. Most of our students obtain places at their first choice of world-class universities on undergraduate programmes.

As part of a diverse school community from a very young age, our students learn so much more than academics. We help them develop all aspects of who they are as a person: intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically – preparing them for success on whatever path they choose next.

Reception & Pre-Reception

age 3 to 5

La Garenne’s youngest students enjoy a family atmosphere in our pre-school. Our Early Years specialists create a warm, homely environment where your child can thrive and develop at their own pace. We pay close attention to the needs of our youngest learners, making sure that they feel comfortable, cared for, and ready to explore. Every part of the day is structured to support their development: from playtime and rest, to creative activities inside and outside the classroom.

Your Child's First School Years

Starting school is an exciting milestone for children and parents alike. At La Garenne, our Early Years programme welcomes children from the age of 3, offering a warm, caring environment where every child feels safe, supported and ready to explore.

Our approach follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), combining structured learning with play, creativity and hands-on discovery. Inspired by Forest School principles, regular outdoor learning in the beautiful Swiss Alps encourages curiosity, independence and a lasting connection with nature.

Knowing how important it is for your child to spend time outdoors, we include Forest School learning, with regular lessons outdoors in the beautiful Alpine environment that surrounds us. These experiences help children build confidence, develop curiosity, and grow through exploration, movement, and meaningful connection with nature.

Our dedicated teachers support each child's academic, social and emotional development. From making first friendships to discovering the joy of learning, we build the confidence and strong foundations children need for a happy, successful start to school.

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Reception

Reception is where your child’s learning journey gets into its full stride, in an environment that is safe, joyful, and full of possibilities. Learning and daily activities are guided by the seven EYFS learning areas, creating a vibrant space where imagination thrives and a love of learning takes root.

We gently support each child with thoughtful structure, clear boundaries, and consistent encouragement. Good manners and respect towards others are part of daily life, and we welcome these behaviours with warmth and positivity. Praise, celebration, and recognition help your child feel proud of their efforts, both academically and socially.

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The seven areas of the EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE

All seven areas of the EYFS curriculum are carefully planned to ensure a broad, balanced, and progressive learning environment. Your child acquires new skills, knowledge, and understanding across the following seven areas:

01Personal, Social, and Emotional development
02Physical development
03Communication and Language
04Expressive Arts and Design
05Mathematics
06Literacy
07Understanding the World
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The three prime EYFS areas – communication and language, physical development, and personal growth – are in our focus from day 1. As your child grows, we introduce the four specific areas: literacy, mathematics, expressive arts, and understanding the world. If your child is new to the English language, they are fully immersed in this class. Together, EYFS learning areas create a rich, vibrant, and balanced programme that helps your child to thrive in every way.

Promoting kindness and respect for others is a daily focus at La Garenne. We live by clear values: tolerance, honesty, reliability, perseverance, and mutual support, and teach them to every student. These principles are part of both our curriculum and daily life, helping each student to practise and carry them into the wider world.

Primary School

For children aged 5 to 11, the primary years are a time of discovery, growing confidence and new friendships. At La Garenne, children benefit from a caring, personalised education that nurtures their curiosity, independence and love of learning.

Our Primary School combines the English National Curriculum (ENC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), providing strong academic foundations alongside creative, hands-on learning. Through engaging lessons and real-world projects, children develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills and international awareness.

With individual attention and support for their academic, social and emotional development, every child is encouraged to explore their interests, discover their strengths and take increasing responsibility for their learning, building confidence for the next stage of their education.

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Primary

Our teachers and staff are fully focussed on each student’s individual development. Class teachers guide the daily learning and create a stable and purposeful classroom environment, while our specialist teachers lead engaging lessons in French, Art, Music and Sport. They quickly get to know your child as a learner – what they like and dislike, where they excel and where they struggle – and provide them with tailored support.

From Reception to Year 6, we help your child take on more responsibility, build resilience, and show kindness and compassion in their everyday interactions. Close communication between you and our school, small class sizes, and individual care, help your child feel seen, supported, and at home – all within a beautiful, secure Alpine setting.

Our programme helps your child to develop essential life skills such as independence, creativity, inquiry and problem-solving through play, exploration, and hands-on learning.

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Closely following the Forest School programme, we take learning beyond the classroom, using the outdoors throughout the year and in all kinds of weather. These regular woodland experiences build confidence, resilience and a deeper connection to the natural world.

Request a Primary School Curriculum Handbook

Secondary School

IB MYP & IGCSE

age 11 to 16

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The International Baccalaureate® Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) provides a challenging and inclusive education that develops critical thinking, independence and international understanding.

In Years 7 to 9 (ages 11-14), students explore connections between subjects, develop research and problem-solving skills, and put their learning into practice through the MYP Community Project.

In Years 10 and 11 (ages 14-16), students follow the internationally recognised International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) programme. They begin to specialise in subjects that reflect their strengths, interests and future ambitions.

Together, these programmes provide a strong academic foundation for the IB Diploma Programme (IB DP) or La Garenne High School Diploma (HSD) in Years 12 and 13, preparing students for leading universities worldwide.

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Secondary school

THE IB LEARNER PROFILE

The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded individuals who strive to create a better and more peaceful world. This goal is reflected in the IB Learner Profile:

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Inquirers

We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life.

Knowledgeable

We develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines. We engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance.

Thinkers

We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyse and take responsible action on complex problems. We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.

Communicators

We express ourselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. We collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups.

Principled

We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. We take responsibility for our actions and their consequences.

Open-minded

We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience.

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Caring

We show empathy, compassion and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.

Risk-takers

We understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives – intellectual, physical, and emotional – to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. We recognize our interdependence with other people and with the world in which we live.

Reflective

We thoughtfully consider the world and our own ideas and experience. We work to understand our strengths and weaknesses in order to support our learning and personal development.

International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) – ages 14 to 16
As part of the academic pathway in the Secondary School, students spend Years 10 and 11 in the academically rigorous and globally recognised IGCSE programme. This is their first opportunity to select subjects that reflect their interests and future goals. The international version of these UK-based qualifications is known for being challenging yet accessible to students of different abilities. The IGCSE is the ideal preparation for the IB Diploma Programme, offering students valuable experience in high-level academic work and formal assessments.

Click below to request your copy of our Middle Years Curriculum Handbook.

Handbook Request

IB Diploma &
High School Diploma

age 16 to 18

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Following their IGCSEs, students choose between two academic pathways: the International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme (IB DP) and the La Garenne High School Diploma (HSD). Both offer personalised teaching, individual support and subject choices aligned with students' strengths and university ambitions.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP)
The IB Diploma Programme is a challenging, internationally recognised qualification that prepares students for leading universities worldwide. Combining academic subjects with Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), it develops critical thinking, independence and a global outlook.

High School Diploma (HSD)
The La Garenne High School Diploma offers a flexible academic pathway tailored to individual interests and future goals. It is particularly suited to students considering business, hospitality or US universities, or those balancing their studies with other commitments.

Both pathways prepare students for higher education and future success.

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IB Diploma Programme

You have a choice – both paths lead to a successful future
Both the International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the High School Diploma (HSD) offer a rigorous academic experience and are equally respected by universities and employers worldwide.

If you are aiming for a globally recognised qualification and want to keep your university options open, the IBDP is the right fit. You will dive deep into six subject areas, explore real-world issues, and develop strong research and writing skills. It is an excellent choice if you enjoy academic challenge and want to become a confident, independent thinker with a global outlook.

And if you are already exploring a specific career path such as business or hospitality, or plan to apply to universities in the United States, the HSD will suit you better. This programme offers more flexibility, allowing you to focus on your interests while making time for hands-on experiences, sport, creative projects, or other passions. You will still be challenged academically, but with more room to shape your own schedule and direction.

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In both IBDP and HSD programmes, courses are carefully selected with guidance from academic staff to ensure each student meets their personal and university-entry goals. Whichever programme you choose, it will be tailored to your strengths, goals, and personal interests, helping you grow into the person you aspire to be.
Our High School curriculum is designed to help students grow into principled, open-minded global citizens who understand the world, respect its differences, and contribute meaningfully to it. With students from many nationalities and backgrounds, our learning environment encourages diversity of thought, international-mindedness, and personal growth.

As you approach graduation, you will receive expert support in preparing for university. From choosing the right programme to refining your application, writing personal statements, and preparing for interviews, our University Guidance Specialists will be there every step of the way. Whether your ambitions lie in Europe, North America, or elsewhere, you will be fully supported to reach your goals.

The curriculum we offer is a perfect fit for La Garenne. Our belief in nurturing the talents of each learner to ensure that, through close support and personalised provision, they can graduate to become open-minded and principled global citizens. Furthermore, given the diverse international population of our student body, the programmes that we offer match our commitment to celebrating our differences and encouraging international-mindedness, respect and understanding.

Students at La Garenne are closely guided and supported regarding applications for university and our staff is always on hand to discuss questions that you or your child may have.

If you have any questions about the IBDP, the HSD, or how to plan your final years at La Garenne, please contact us.

Click below to request your copy of our Senior Years Curriculum Handbook

Handbook Request

Innovative Teaching

Great education is about more than finding the right answers. It is about asking the right questions. Our innovative teaching methods encourage students to think independently, challenge ideas and take an active role in their learning.

One example is the Harkness Method™, where students sit around an oval table to exchange ideas, explore different perspectives and learn from one another. Based on the principles of Socratic dialogue, teachers guide discussions through thoughtful questions rather than simply delivering information. With small classes, every student has a voice.

This collaborative approach develops critical thinking, confidence and problem-solving skills, preparing students to question information, express their views and engage with real-world challenges. They learn not just what to think, but how to think.

Higher Education and Futures Programme

Preparing for university and future careers begins early at La Garenne. Our Higher Education and Futures Programme provides personalised guidance to help students explore their interests, discover their strengths and make confident decisions about their future.

Working closely with teachers, university counsellors and families, students develop a clear pathway towards leading universities in Switzerland, the UK, the USA and around the world. Guidance includes subject choices, university and career research, personal statements and application preparation.

In their final school years, students benefit from regular one-to-one meetings, expert advice and practical support throughout the university admissions process. Our goal is to help every student find the right academic pathway and prepare for a successful future beyond La Garenne.

Personalised Learning

Every child learns differently. Our personalised learning approach ensures that each student receives the right balance of challenge, encouragement and support to reach their full potential.

From the moment they join La Garenne, students complete academic and learning assessments that help our teachers understand their strengths, abilities and individual learning needs. This allows us to create a tailored learning pathway, with flexible teaching, individual or small-group support and opportunities for advanced study.

Whether building confidence in a challenging subject or exploring a particular talent, every student benefits from an education that adapts to their needs, celebrates their progress and encourages a lifelong love of learning.

Intensive English

Our Intensive English Programme helps students develop the language skills and confidence they need to succeed academically, make friends and be fully part of our diverse international school community.

Through personalised, focused English lessons, students progress at their own pace towards at least B1 level, following the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Where needed, additional English teaching temporarily replaces other subjects, helping students build a strong language foundation before joining the full academic programme.

Our goal is simple: to help every student communicate confidently and make the most of their time at La Garenne.

French

At La Garenne, French is more than a classroom subject. Located in the heart of French-speaking Switzerland, our international school offers students the opportunity to learn French through daily contact with native speakers, both on campus and in the surrounding Alpine community.

 

French is compulsory until the age of 16, with engaging, practical lessons that build confidence and communication skills. From shopping in Villars to taking part in local activities, students have countless opportunities to practise their French in real-life situations.

 

Combined with our English-language education and multicultural environment, learning French gives students a valuable advantage. They develop language skills, cultural understanding and the confidence to communicate across borders, preparing them for university and life in an international world.

 

French Language Diploma (DELF)
La Garenne students can gain an internationally recognised qualification in French from an early age. As an officially certified DELF examination centre, we prepare students for the Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF), awarded by the French Ministry of Education.

 

Recognised worldwide, the DELF diploma provides official proof of French language proficiency and is a valuable qualification for students planning to study at French-speaking schools or universities.

 

Students can begin taking DELF examinations from Year 5, with La Garenne’s candidates among the youngest in the canton of Vaud. Our students consistently achieve a 100% DELF examination success rate, reflecting the strength of our French language teaching. Learn more at www.delfdalf.ch.

Cambridge English Qualifications

At La Garenne, students develop the English language skills and confidence to succeed at school, university and beyond. Our Cambridge English Qualifications programme offers a clear learning pathway from beginner (A1) to advanced (C2), following the internationally recognised Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

Through engaging, practical lessons, students strengthen their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, with recognised qualifications marking their progress at each stage.

Our teachers use official Cambridge English resources and teaching methods to provide personalised support and prepare students for examinations. Cambridge English Qualifications are recognised by thousands of universities, employers and institutions worldwide, opening doors to future academic and career opportunities.

No matter what your goals are, Cambridge English qualifications are respected by thousands of universities, employers, and institutions around the world. Learn more: www.cambridgeenglish.org