Learning and doing
Balancing play and challenge
A safe space to explore
Lower School (ages 3-11)
The Lower School at Zurich International School is a global community where more than 400 students from over 50 nations, speaking 40 different languages, feel at home.
Academic Challenge
We offer a transformative education designed around your child.
We know that each student has different interests and abilities and will ensure that your child is challenged and supported to achieve more than they thought possible. We focus on the total growth of your child including their social, physical, emotional and cultural needs—all while offering academic excellence.
I knew from the first time I stepped into the Lower School building that this was an amazing school, and that I wanted to be part of its future. There is a wonderful feeling of warmth and community, and the opportunity for everyone in the community to find their passion and reach for their potential.
Bilingual Program
The additional bilingual program for children in Kindergarten 1 and 2 for August 2021 is full. We are now accepting applications for the 2022/23 school year for Kindergarten, Grade 1 and Grade 2 (children aged 4-8) . The aim is to expand the program, which will fulfil the requirements of the Swiss Lehrplan 21 curriculum, to include students aged up to 12 in the coming years.
Authentic Learning
We believe that children learn best in an authentic context and so our curriculum is focused on inquiry-based learning, problem solving and real-life experiences.
We create an environment for your child to succeed academically as well as to develop vital life skills including critical thinking, teamwork, leadership and public speaking.
State of the art facilities
Your child will thrive in our purpose-built campus which includes dedicated Makerspace and Tinkering rooms and classrooms specifically designed for German, Music, Visual and Performance Arts as well gyms for Physical Education.
Outside we have access to the forest, our own sports field and a variety of age-appropriate play spaces.
German
We understand the importance of students learning German to help them feel at home in Switzerland and part of the local community.
Children in Early Childhood through to Grade 5 learn German through a combination of authentic experiences and language acquisition or fluent speaker classes.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
The innovators and leaders of the future will require sound knowledge in a variety of STEM-based fields, and at ZIS, we put Science, Technology, Engineering and Math subjects at the heart of our program.
Through integrated units of study at every grade, our STEM lab and Makerspaces, and a wide range of co-curricular offerings, your child will be encouraged and supported to develop transferable STEM skills that are vital to engaging in real-world problem-solving with confidence.
Early Childhood (Ages 3-6)
Play is at the heart of our Early Childhood approach. Your child will be inspired to develop their own ideas and innovations and be nourished as a creative thinker.
As they begin to develop as a reader, writer and mathematician, a sense of wonder is fostered as they grow socially, emotionally and academically.
Physical Education, Music and Art
Your child will benefit from a comprehensive, varied and rich learning experience in visual arts, music, physical education and library in classes taught by specialists.
Technology is used as a tool that enhances and broadens the scope and quality of student learning.
The language of instruction is English, with additional support for non-English speakers.
Co-Curricular Program
Your child can pursue their interests or discover something that could become a lifelong passion through our outstanding co-curricular program featuring over 40 academic, athletics, STEM, performing and visual arts and language activities.
Before and After School Care is available if you need to extend the school day.
Additional Support
For learners with additional needs we have teachers specializing in Speech, Occupational Therapy, Counseling, and English as an Additional Language, as well as other learning needs.
Partner with us
ZIS is a close learning community where parents are seen as partners and we take you on the learning journey with your child. Regular Parent Cafes ensure that you will have a good understanding of our program and how you can help support your child, both academically and emotionally. You will also get regular insights into your child's learning through our class communications platform as well as via regular feedback sessions and discussions with your child's teachers.