Aiglon College vs La Garenne International School

	A Aiglon College Lausanne, Switzerland	L La Garenne International School Lausanne, Switzerland
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CHF 47,850 - 159,000	Fees / year CHF 36,000 - 115,000
Age range	Age range 7 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE	Curriculum IB (DP), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum)
Pupils	Pupils 480	Pupils 150
Typical class size	Typical class size 12	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1949	Opened 1947
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Located in the alpine village of Chesières (Chesières-Villars), Vaud, Switzerland. The campus address is Avenue Centrale 61, 1885 Chesières. The Villars English Church sits in the village nearby, reflecting the local community.	Location The school is in the alpine village of Chesières, Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland. It is located at Chemin des Chavasses 23, 1885 Chesières. The alpine setting provides a mountain environment for boarding and day students.
Stages	Stages Discovery Years (Years 5-9); Exploration Years (Years 10-11); Inspiration Years (Years 12-13).	Stages The school serves ages 3 to 18, with Reception (early years), Primary School, Secondary School, IB Diploma Programme, and High School Programme.
School type	School type The school is a private, co-educational international boarding school.	School type The school is an international boarding school offering boarding and day programmes.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix 65 nationalities represented.	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support The school has a Head of Learning Support and offers Personalised Learning and Intensive English.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation Switzerland
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Registration - Registration (application) fee: CHF 3,000 (one-time, non-refundable). Admissions deposits and joining charges - Enrolment deposit: CHF 15,000. The deposit reserves a place and is refundable only after the student leaves and the account is fully settled; the deposit is not returned before September of the following academic year and no interest is paid on the deposit. - Scholarship & Development Fund (joining charge included on the first invoice): CHF 4,000. - Additional joining charges included on the first invoice (capital / alumni programme charges apply as shown on the invoice). Tuition and boarding fees (annual and per-term by year group) Note: tuition and boarding charges are shown in Swiss Francs (CHF). Term structure is Autumn / Winter / Summer; the school defines an academic year as three terms. Annual amounts and per-term equivalents (annual divided by three) follow. - Years 12–13 (Inspiration Years) - Boarding annual: CHF 159,000 — Per term: CHF 53,000. - Day annual: CHF 95,700 — Per term: CHF 31,900. - Years 10–11 (Exploration Years) - Boarding annual: CHF 148,400 — Per term: CHF 49,467. - Day annual: CHF 87,400 — Per term: CHF 29,133. - Year 9 - Boarding annual: CHF 145,600 — Per term: CHF 48,533. - Day annual: CHF 87,400 — Per term: CHF 29,133. - Years 7–8 (Discovery Years) - Boarding annual: CHF 113,400 — Per term: CHF 37,800. - Day annual: CHF 64,500 — Per term: CHF 21,500. - Years 3–6 (Wonder & lower Discovery; boarding applies for Years 5–6) - Boarding (Years 5–6) annual: CHF 95,400 — Per term: CHF 31,800. - Day (Years 3–6) annual: CHF 47,850 — Per term: CHF 15,950. - Pocket money (charged in advance for Years 5–8 boarders): CHF 1,360 (annual). Optional / additional charges (examples and typical extras) - Initial clothing (uniform and school clothing) charged on the first invoice: - Inspiration Years (Years 12–13): CHF 3,900. - Exploration Years (Years 10–11): CHF 4,900. - Wonder & Discovery Years (Years 3–9): CHF 5,200. - Expedition equipment pack: CHF 1,000. - Extra language tuition (price per year, where applicable): IB Language HL (5 periods) CHF 16,640; IB Language SL (3 periods) CHF 9,900; IGCSE language 3 periods CHF 6,560; IGCSE language 2 periods CHF 4,370. - Private lessons (per session): Private lesson (50 min) CHF 115; shared private lesson CHF 60; small group CHF 50. Music private lesson (25 min) CHF 55; music shared lesson (25 min) CHF 35. - Learning support (price per term): 1 period per week CHF 1,880; 2 periods per week CHF 3,120. - Optional Scholarship Fund contribution (voluntary): CHF 10,000. - The tuition fee covers class tuition, public examination fees and invigilation costs, all meals, required expeditions and activities, CLE, books/online resources, expedition equipment and ski locker, pastoral/tutoring/university advising programmes, access to the Health Centre, school trip travel insurance, an allowance for stationery (up to CHF 300), yearbook and certain other items; items explicitly excluded (and billed separately when applicable) include optional social/sporting trips, ski equipment rentals, toiletries/personal items, dry cleaning, travel to/from school, special escorts/booking fees, non-mainstream IB languages, personal devices, and costs arising from property damage. Billing schedule and payment terms - Term dates (for billing and notice purposes): Autumn Term 1 August–31 December; Winter Term 1 January–31 March; Summer Term 1 April–31 July. - Standard requirement: payment of tuition fees for the academic year is due upfront unless an alternative arrangement has been agreed. Failure to meet payment deadlines may forfeit a student's place. - Payment plan (available on request): fees may be paid in two equal instalments due 15 May and 15 November; an administrative fee of CHF 3,000 per annum is added to the first instalment. - Advance fee payment option: families may pay fees in advance (minimum two years) under special arrangements that can include exchange-rate and other financial considerations; further details are arranged with Finance. - Invoice timing and first-invoice items: the first invoice typically includes enrolment charges and the initial clothing charge and other joining charges as listed above. Refunds, cancellations and withdrawal rules - Registration fee: non-refundable in all cases. - Cancellation before 15 February: the school will retain only the non-refundable registration fee. Cancellation before 15 May: paid tuition fees will be reimbursed in full but the deposit and registration fee will not be refunded. Cancellation after 15 May: tuition fees for the Autumn Term remain due even if the student does not attend; the deposit and registration fee will not be returned. - Withdrawal during the academic year: at least one term's written notice is required; failure to give proper notice can mean the deposit will not be returned and tuition fees for the remainder of the year may not be reimbursed. When withdrawal is mutually agreed, the current term's tuition fees will not be refunded; the deposit will be returned provided the account is settled. - Absence, suspension, expulsion, force majeure: tuition fees are not reimbursed for missed schooling due to sickness or other reasons; tuition fees are non-refundable in the event of closure due to force majeure; in case of suspension or expulsion the current term's fees will not be refunded and the deposit will not be returned. Late payment and penalties - Late payments may incur interest at 1% per month. The school may restrict student participation or re-enrolment if instalments are past due. Fee payment options (how payments are accepted/managed) - Fee accounts are managed through an online payment portal; the portal provides secure, multi-currency payment using various methods. Families may contact the Finance Office for details on available payment channels and any required banking information. - Two-instalment plan and advance-payment options are available as described under billing schedule and payment terms. Administrative fees apply to instalment plans as noted above. Other practical notes on costs - VAT is applicable and included in fees where required; invoices will show applicable VAT rates. Sibling tuition reductions apply when two or more siblings are enrolled simultaneously (2 children: 5% discount on second child; 3 children: 10% discount on second and third; 4+ children: 15% on second and subsequent children). - Certain insurances (Swiss health insurance, third-party liability, property coverage, travel insurance for school trips) are included for boarders within the tuition charge; families should review the insurance arrangements and top-up or supplementary cover where appropriate. Contacts for billing and finance - The Finance Office handles account-specific enquiries and the Admissions Office handles admissions-related billing queries; contact details are provided on the school's published financial information.	Fee details Application fees - Application fee (new students): CHF 1,500. It is payable by credit card or bank transfer. Enrolment deposit and one-off contributions - Enrolment deposit (boarders): CHF 10,000. - Enrolment deposit (day students): CHF 2,000. - Campus Enhancement Fund contribution: CHF 5,000 (one-off). - Swiss student residence permit (B permit) fee for new non‑European boarding students: CHF 2,100 (non‑refundable). - Health insurance charge (new and returning): CHF 2,200 (billed as a general fee). Tuition fees by year group (annual) - Years 1 to 6 (Primary) - Boarder: CHF 84,000 per year. - Day student: CHF 46,000 per year. - Middle Years Programme 1 to 3 (Years 7 to 9) - Boarder: CHF 94,500 per year. - Day student: CHF 61,000 per year. - Middle Years Programme 4 & 5 (Years 10 & 11) - Boarder: CHF 116,000 per year. - Day student: CHF 83,000 per year. - Diploma Years (Years 12 & 13) - Boarder: CHF 126,000 per year. - Day student: CHF 92,000 per year. Special local conditions apply for day students whose parent(s) work within the local community; the school verifies addresses to confirm eligibility. Per‑term amounts (calculated)* - The school operates three terms (Terms 1, 2 and 3). The published annual tuition above has been divided by three to produce per‑term figures below (this is a calculated per‑term breakdown based on the annual fee). Example per‑term amounts (annual ÷ 3): - Years 1–6 boarder: CHF 28,000 per term (CHF 84,000 ÷ 3). - Years 1–6 day student: CHF 15,333 per term (CHF 46,000 ÷ 3). - Years 7–9 boarder: CHF 31,500 per term (CHF 94,500 ÷ 3). - Years 7–9 day student: CHF 20,333 per term (CHF 61,000 ÷ 3). - Years 10–11 boarder: CHF 38,667 per term (CHF 116,000 ÷ 3). - Years 10–11 day student: CHF 27,667 per term (CHF 83,000 ÷ 3). - Years 12–13 boarder: CHF 42,000 per term (CHF 126,000 ÷ 3). - Years 12–13 day student: CHF 30,667 per term (CHF 92,000 ÷ 3). Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual fees are invoiced in two invoices except for Diploma Years (Years 12 & 13), where the full amount is payable in advance. The first invoice covers Terms 1 and 2 plus general fees; the second invoice covers Term 3. Payment deadlines: first invoice must be settled by 1 June at the latest; the Term 3 invoice must be settled before 1 December. For new enrolments there are specific advance payment rules tied to the date of enrolment (e.g., required deposits and minimum advance percentages). New enrolment deposits are required before a place is guaranteed. A refundable deposit is held to cover unpaid supplementary expenses (see deposit amounts above). - For new enrolments before 1 May the school requests at least 15% of the first invoice and the CHF 5,000 Campus Enhancement Fund contribution to guarantee the place. For enrolments after 1 June full payment of the first invoice is required within 15 days. For enrolments after 15 August or during the school year, payment of the first invoice is required before the student can start. All extras are billed separately at the end of each term and must be paid within 30 days. Boarding fees and what is included - Boarding fees are the boarder tuition figures listed above (annual). Boarding provision and charges are included within those boarder fees. The published boarding fee includes full board and lodging, school uniform, hire of ski uniform, tuition and supervised studies, loan of textbooks and some class materials, ski pass for boarders, ski locker, use of school laundry for boarders, library and computer network use, sports and cultural activities and short Swiss expeditions, on‑site healthcare, and transport to/from Geneva Airport within the school's published dates and times, plus applicable taxes/VAT. Other costs and extras (not included in published tuition) - Health and accident insurance and medication (the school bills health insurance as a general fee separately). - Private lessons, learning support, university application fees, non‑mainstream IB languages or any IB subject not provided in the curriculum. - Extracurricular after‑school clubs, stationery, ski equipment hire, official external exam fees (e.g., Cambridge, DELF), pocket money, personal and digital photo packages, complementary health packages, personal expenses (hairdresser, dentist, dry cleaning, postage), mandatory school trips. For day students specifically: ski pass, day trips, uniform, laundry, expeditions and health insurance are excluded from the day tuition and billed separately. - Pocket money for new students is collected in advance on the first invoice; older students may be provided with a debit card arrangement managed by the school. Refund, cancellation and withdrawal terms - If a new student cancels enrolment for Term 1 before 1 June, school fees already paid (excluding the Application Fee, Enrolment Deposit and Swiss B permit fee) are reimbursed in full. If cancellation occurs after 1 June or for certain mid‑year enrolments, the school may retain or collect all of the first fees invoice; variable costs such as uniform, school meals and health insurance are fully reimbursed. A deposit is fully reimbursed within 120 days of a student leaving provided all accounts are settled. No fee reimbursement is made for absence from school due to sickness, injury or other reasons. If a student is permanently excluded or withdrawn during the academic year, fees for the current and following term remain due. Change of boarding status during the academic year does not entitle parents to a refund. Late payment interest and reminder charges apply for overdue invoices. Discounts and family benefits - Sibling discount for boarders: 10% for the second child, 15% for the third child, 20% for the fourth and any additional children (applied to tuition only). Payment methods and banking details - Accepted payment methods: credit card and bank transfer for application fees; school accepts payments by bank transfer, and offers an online international payment option via Flywire to allow secure payments from most countries and to reduce bank fees and poor exchange rates. Contact the school accountant for bank details; Flywire is available for international payments. The school cannot accept payments or transfers from banks or individuals on certain sanctions lists. Late payment and penalties - Reminders and late payments incur charges: the school may apply late payment interest (annualised rate 10% in accordance with Swiss law) and charge reminder fees; outstanding fees may lead to withholding of reports, certificates, or the student being prevented from returning until accounts are settled. A deposit is retained to cover unpaid supplementary expenses and will be reimbursed within 120 days after departure once accounts are settled. Notes on what the annual tuition covers and does not cover - Included in the published annual tuition for boarders: full board and lodging, school uniform, hire of ski uniform, tuition and supervised studies, certain textbooks and class materials, ski pass for boarders, ski locker, school laundry (boarders), library/computer network access, sports and cultural activities, short local expeditions, on‑site healthcare, and scheduled airport transfers. - Not included: health and accident insurance (billed separately as a general fee), private lessons, elective external IB/Cambridge exam fees not in the curriculum, optional extracurricular clubs, stationery, ski equipment hire, pocket money, personal expenses, and mandatory school trips where noted. Day student fees exclude items such as the ski pass, some day trips, uniform, laundry, expeditions and health insurance. (End of fees overview.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Ten boarding houses in total: La Baita and La Casa for juniors (ages 7-13); Clairmont, Exeter, Le Cerf and Le Trient for senior girls; Alpina, Belvedere, Delaware and St Louis for senior boys. The boarding population is 85%.	Boarding arrangements Boarding is offered for ages 3 to 18. La Garenne has two campuses that are a five‑minute walk apart: the Primary/Middle School Campus (Chalet La Garenne for younger boarders and Chalet Beau Site for ages 11–13), plus the Millennium building (Early Years) and Academia (Years 4–9). The Secondary Campus, Le Roc, houses senior students near the Villars ski lift. La Garenne is a family‑run boarding and day school run by the Méan family for decades.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The uniform is organized into No. 1 (formal dress) and No. 2 (everyday working dress), with a Years 12-13 dress code; there are also sections for PE & Sport, Expeditions & Skiing, and Other.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Most meals are taken in the School Restaurant with world, traditional and vegetarian options; Mondays are vegetarian for the whole school. Breakfast is available in the School Restaurant or in boarding houses; lunches are served in two sittings in the School Restaurant and dinners are served in the Restaurant by house groups. House meals are also common with weekly deliveries or meals prepared by students on Sundays.	Food options Students enjoy three meals a day with snacks, shared in dining areas supervised by staff. Catering is provided by Eldora, with meals cooked in our own kitchens to control quality and support local sourcing where possible. Special menus are available for celebrations, and there is a Cooking Club for students interested in food.
House system	House system Junior Houses: La Baita and La Casa; Senior Girls: Clairmont, Exeter, Le Cerf, Le Trient; Senior Boys: Alpina, Belvedere, Delaware, St Louis.	House system La Garenne has a House System. Students join one of four Houses: Bouquetin (Alpine ibex), Buse (buzzard), Cerf (deer), and Lynx (mountain cat). Each House has an equal number of students of all ages and competes in events to earn points. Points are updated weekly and the end‑of‑year prize is a mystery reward; the House system fosters teamwork, cross‑age mentoring, and a sense of belonging.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is wholly owned and overseen by the Aiglon College Association (ACA), a not-for-profit association. Aiglon operates under the legal name Aiglon College Services SA (ACSSA), which is fully owned by the ACA. The ACSSA Board runs the school and reports to the ACA, and the ACA governs the association and its donations, reinvesting all profits back into the school.	Governance and ownership La Garenne is a family‑run boarding and day school owned and operated by the Méan family for decades.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Discovery Years (Years 5-9) connect academic study with expeditions, the arts and personal reflection under guiding questions to foster student growth. Exploration Years (Years 10-11) offer two tracks: Cambridge IGCSE and a bespoke Pre-IB Programme designed to prepare students for the IB Diploma. Inspiration Years (Years 12-13) deliver the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. English is the language of instruction, with targeted English as an Additional Language (EAL) support to enable access to the curriculum. Alongside the IB, graduates receive a fully accredited High School Diploma.	Curriculum details The school follows an international curriculum across divisions. In Early Years, the EYFS framework is used; Primary School teaches the English National Curriculum (ENC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). In Secondary School, students undertake the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IGCSE, before choosing between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the High School Diploma (HSD) in Years 12 and 13. French is compulsory and the French Language Diploma (DELF) is offered from Year 5 with a 100% pass rate among the youngest participants in Vaud. Cambridge English Qualifications provide a CEFR-aligned pathway from A1 to C2. Small class sizes and personalised learning support students, and a Higher Education and Futures Programme provides university guidance.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio 5:1 student-teacher ratio; classes average 12 students.	Student teacher ratio Small class sizes.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results DELF is offered from Year 5 onward. The school reports that DELF participants are among the youngest in the canton of Vaud and consistently achieve a 100% pass rate.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates receive a fully accredited High School Diploma alongside the IB, enabling entry to universities worldwide.	Higher education progression From early in Secondary School, Higher Education and Futures Programme provides university guidance. University Guidance Specialists assist with programme selection, university applications, personal statements, and interview preparation. They support admissions to universities worldwide, including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Personal, social, health and emotional education is integrated into the Discovery Years curriculum. Topics cover contemporary issues to support real-world development. Year 7 reflects on identity and ethics and explores digital safety; Year 8 considers personal culture and world religions; Year 9 studies the systems that influence behaviour and ethics. The programme fosters critical thinking, reflection and global citizenship, with staff across houses and curricular programmes supporting students' wellbeing. The approach emphasises holistic development and supportive relationships.	Social & emotional learning Social and emotional development is integrated into La Garenne's approach. Students grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically as part of their education. Outdoor Forest School activities build confidence and resilience, and the House System and pastoral staff support belonging and personal growth.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Learning Support Department provides specialist teaching to support students with a variety of learning difficulties, through individualised intervention and personalised target setting. A team of qualified teachers works one-to-one with students and alongside staff to maximise potential and enable success.	Special educational needs (SEN) The team includes a psychologist and special needs and disability specialists to support students with additional needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language An expert English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme enables students from around the world to access the curriculum. Students benefit from immersion in an English-speaking community and ongoing support, with one-to-one and classroom assistance available.	English as an additional language Intensive English Programme provides focused English support for students who need it, with the aim of reaching at least B1. The programme offers tailored short-term English development, potentially postponing other subjects as needed.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The health and wellbeing provision includes an in-house team with specialists in mental health support. Mindfulness practices and wellbeing initiatives run across campus, with access to mindfulness practitioners, art therapists and nutritionists as needed. Preventative care and personal development are central to the wellbeing strategy.	Mental wellbeing Well-being is a central focus. In-school counselling is available to all students, with a confidential service led by a team that includes a psychologist. Regular training in child, teenager, and young adult psychology and well-being supports staff in safeguarding students' mental health.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Professional safeguarding and wellbeing teams operate to guide policies and priorities for student protection. Staff collaborate across houses and curricular programmes to promote healthy sleep habits and overall wellbeing. A documented safeguarding policy framework exists and is regularly reviewed.	Safeguarding La Garenne maintains a safeguarding policy with a child-centred, coordinated approach. All staff understand safeguarding responsibilities; new staff undergo enhanced pre-employment checks; the policy is reviewed annually. Safety and reporting concerns are reinforced through PSHE, E-Safety, and assemblies.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus blends purpose-built teaching and boarding spaces with renovated chalets in an alpine setting. It houses spaces for daily life, creative arts and study, connected by a cohesive campus environment. The Tony Jashanmal Sports Centre provides modern fitness and training facilities, with access to additional on-campus and local venues. The Centre for Enquiry reimagines the library as a collaborative learning hub with a maker space and 3D printers. Expeditions equipment is stored in the Expeditions Store to support weekend and term expeditions, and music facilities include a recording studio. The campus also hosts community spaces such as a chapel and historic buildings integrated with the village setting.	Facilities overview Boarding life is housed across Chalet La Garenne for younger students, Beau Site for middle school, and Le Roc for older students. Chalet La Garenne is a Swiss chalet with playgrounds, indoor learning spaces, and large lounges. Beau Site offers a vast outdoor playground, a music room, an art room, a game room, two living rooms, a Bubble Lounge, and reading facilities. Le Roc provides bright classrooms with modern technology, a multilingual library, a dance and music studio, a spacious dining room, and comfortable social areas, with separate floors for boys and girls. Outdoor learning is integrated through Forest School activities, with sports, hikes, and winter ski lessons shaping a hands-on, nature-connected culture.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Students have regular access to the Tony Jashanmal Sports Centre, our modern facility with two multi-use, full-size courts and a fitness suite. There are two outdoor astroturf football pitches on campus. The school also has access to the Villars tennis centre, local athletics track, indoor swimming pool, ice rink, and Lac Léman in summer. Winter activities include alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ski touring and racing on the local resort, offering over 112 km of slopes from October to May. Competitive sport includes over 12 teams that train and compete across three terms.	Sports facilities Beau Site supports a wide Activities and Sports programme, with options such as swimming, football, horse riding, boxing, skiing, or golf. In addition to sports, students join music, art, theatre, or dance clubs. Le Roc features a fully equipped gym and bright classrooms. Outdoor spaces and proximity to the Villars ski area facilitate skiing and other winter sports. Every student is enrolled in at least two extracurricular activities and sports.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Centre for Enquiry reimagines the library space as a collaborative learning hub, with a quiet pod for individual work and a maker space with 3D printers. The AIR Lab (Applied Innovation and Robotics) supports student projects in robotics and related disciplines. The Centre for Enquiry also hosts a range of learning spaces for group work and creative projects. The campus features modern teaching spaces integrated with creative arts facilities and technology. Aiglon provides a 360º virtual tour to explore teaching and boarding facilities.	Academic facilities Le Roc provides bright classrooms with modern technology and a multilingual library. A dance and music studio is available to support performing arts. A spacious dining room and other social areas support daily life and learning. Facilities are designed to support contemporary teaching across the senior school.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Expeditions are a core feature of student life, supported by the Expeditions Store stocked with equipment for weekends and seasons. Arts and music spaces include a recording studio and music facilities for performances and lessons. The Centre for Enquiry and related spaces support clubs and project-based activities beyond the classroom. Chapel and other community spaces host events and gatherings as part of student life.	Extra curricular facilities Every student is enrolled in at least two extracurricular activities and sports. Options include swimming, football, horse riding, boxing, skiing, and golf. The school also offers music, visual arts, performing arts, theatre, and dance clubs. Weekend trips and educational expeditions broaden horizons with cultural visits and hands-on projects.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Aiglon College was founded in 1949 by John Corlette. The school is a not-for-profit independent institution owned and overseen by a non-profit association. The guiding ethos is the balanced development of mind, body and spirit. Meditation and mountain expeditions have resided at the core of Aiglon life since its inception. The mountaintop environment is central to life at Aiglon, where the mountain is both home and classroom.	History La Garenne International School was founded in 1947 as a home for children in the Swiss Alps near Villars-sur-Ollon. From ages 4 to 18, it serves boarding and day students, guided by the Méan family leadership. Grégory Méan is General Director, Céline Méan works in HR, Gavin Williams is Principal, and Danielle Allard heads the Primary School. Milestones include La Garenne's 70th anniversary in 2017 and the 75th anniversary in 2022; Le Roc and the IB Programme were introduced in 2019; Chalet Beau Site opened in 2015 and Chalet Académia opened in 2012; two plots were purchased in 2010; and a new sports centre was announced for 2025 to celebrate the 80th birthday in 2027.
Community	Community Community is central to Aiglon life, with a global alumni network and an active parent community. The alumni network contributes to over 50% of new student referrals. The Aiglon Magazine is published twice a year for the community. Global events connect Aiglon's community worldwide, and parent-focused events help keep families involved.	Community La Garenne has an international community with over 40 nationalities. The boarding community focuses on care and belonging, supported by House Parents in each house and a four-house system that fosters mentorship and teamwork. Mealtimes are shared in dining areas and celebrations mark cultural diversity with festive meals. Educational trips take students to destinations across Asia, Africa, America and Europe to broaden learning.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Ambassador Council (PAC) was created to leverage the talents, expertise, experience and goodwill of the parent body to support Aiglon's guiding principles. It offers formal opportunities for parent involvement and to contribute to school life. Aiglon hosts a variety of parent events throughout the year to keep the parent community engaged. Global events connect families around the world with the campus. The calendar and dates section helps parents stay informed about key events. Useful Resources provide downloads and information for parents.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Aiglon's activities program provides a wide range of academically oriented experiences. VEX Robotics, CubeSat project, Biotechnology, Science Olympiad, Maths Olympiad Challenge, Anatomy & Dissection, Design & Engineering, and Coding are available as part of the weekday activities. For students in the IB Diploma Inspiration Years, a minimum of two activities per week is required, with an intentional CAS reflection component. Students are encouraged to lead their own activities, bringing personal interests to the Aiglon community.	Academic & intellectual The school's early years are guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Primary School follows the English National Curriculum (ENC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). In Secondary, La Garenne offers the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Years 7–9, followed by IGCSE in Years 10–11, and a choice between the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the High School Diploma (HSD) in Years 12–13. Personalised learning uses baseline assessments to tailor each student's programme, with Intensive English support and language qualifications such as DELF and Cambridge English.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative There are extensive creative arts offerings, including String Quartet, Brass Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Big Band, Orchestra, Chamber Choir, and Rock Jam, as well as theatre, dance, photography, film-making, printmaking, ceramics, and fashion/design activities. Additional creative platforms include International Cinema Club, Theatre Make‑up, and public speaking initiatives such as LAMDA Public Speaking. These activities are supported within the school's broader arts framework.	Arts & creative Specialist teachers lead engaging lessons in French, Art, Music and Sport in the Primary years. Expressive Arts and Design are part of the EYFS seven learning areas. A hands-on film-making class gives students opportunities to act, direct, and produce short films, which are shared with the school community.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Language and culture clubs promote intercultural understanding, including Chinese, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese Language & Culture Clubs, and the Oriental Society. These clubs accompany intercultural experiences and contribute to the school's interculturalism focus.	Cultural & language La Garenne is located in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, providing immersion in French language in a natural setting. French is compulsory for every student until age 16 and plays a central role in daily life at school and in the community. The school is officially certified to offer the DELF/DALF language diplomas, and Cambridge English Qualifications are available along a CEFR-aligned path.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Aiglon offers a broad array of social and hobby activities such as Esports, Coding, Design & Engineering, Lego League, Warhammer, Role‑Play Games, and clubs for film, photography, and music. Weekend and after‑school options expand opportunities for social connection and personal interests.	Social & hobbies Every student participates in at least two extracurricular activities, with options in sports and the arts. A hands-on film-making class is available, letting students act, produce and direct short films to share on the school YouTube channel. Model United Nations courses and events develop public speaking, teamwork and critical thinking. The school also offers dog-walking with friendly dogs in the alpine setting and activities like Homework Club.
Community & service	Community & service The program includes community service components such as Service at the Refugee Centre and Foodbank, alongside student‑led initiatives within systems like Round Square and related service platforms. These activities reinforce service and social responsibility as part of the school ethos.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership and professional development are supported through Enterprise, Innovation and Pitch activities, Academic Peer Mentorship, and participation in Round Square. These elements foster initiative, collaboration and real‑world problem solving.	Leadership & professional After completing IGCSE, students choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the High School Diploma (HSD). The IBDP includes core components such as Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), the Extended Essay, and Theory of Knowledge. The school provides Higher Education and Futures support with University Guidance Specialists to assist with university applications in Europe, the UK, the USA and beyond.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport and wellbeing are central to life at Aiglon, with over 12 competitive sport teams and a broad sport offering. The school partners with Manchester City Football School and Lindsey Vonn to provide elite skiing education, supported by facilities such as the Tony Jashanmal Sports Centre and access to local mountain terrain for year‑round activity. A weekend programme also includes expeditions and trips to sustain fitness and resilience.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Forest School outdoor learning is integral from the early years, with regular outdoor lessons in the Alpine environment. The programme uses outdoor experiences year-round to build confidence, resilience and a connection with nature. Expeditions include mountain hikes, rafting, cave exploration, and visits to mines, many of which are curriculum-linked. The Ski Academy and other alpine activities provide opportunities for physical activity and wellness.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the common tongue at Aiglon, and the school maintains a multilingual culture with 65 nationalities represented and 23 languages spoken. Students are encouraged to thrive in their home language or learn another language. French is taught as part of the curriculum, alongside other World Languages offered by the school. The programme includes dynamic language programmes to develop multilingual competence.	Language provision English is the main language of instruction. The Primary curriculum follows ENC and IPC. French language study leads to DELF certification. Students typically develop proficiency in multiple languages, including French.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching English is the main language of instruction. French language study is offered and leads to DELF certification. The Primary School follows the English National Curriculum (ENC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). Many La Garenne graduates speak multiple languages, including French.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Our English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme provides targeted language support and immersion in an English-speaking community. Students access the curriculum with specialist teaching, supplemented by classroom assistance. Support is provided one-on-one and in the classroom.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Admissions at Aiglon College are selective but untraditional. Applicants are evaluated on alignment with Guiding Principles—challenge, respect, responsibility, diversity, and service—and on whether they could access the rigorous, experiential curriculum, thrive in the mountain environment, and flourish in the international boarding community. Applications are accepted up to one year before arrival, and early applications are strongly encouraged. The admissions process follows these steps: Enquire, Visit, Apply, Interview & Assess, and Enrolment Decision. Enquire involves submitting a short inquiry for a member of the team to reach out and discuss family needs and goals. Visit invites families to experience the campus with two options: an Initial Enquiry Visit (about 1 hour 30 minutes) or a Full Admissions Visit (about 3 to 4 hours) that includes admissions assessments and an interview; Year 12 applicants must do a Full Admissions Visit. Apply requires submitting school reports for the last two academic years, two confidential teacher references, a non‑refundable registration fee of CHF 3,000, and a passport scan. Interview & Assess varies by age, with different formats for Years 3–4, 5–11, and 12. Enrolment Decision is made by the Enrolment Committee and communicated monthly with three possible outcomes: Accept, Waiting List, or Decline.	Admissions 4 Easy Steps to Apply: 1. Contact our Admissions Team to start the process. 2. Complete the admissions form and send us all the necessary documents. 3. After a positive evaluation, you will receive an offer to be accepted. 4. Formally accept the offer and fulfil all the financial obligations. Fees and costs: Application fee CHF 1'800. Full-Year Boarding CHF 85'000 to CHF 129'000. Full-Year Day School CHF 47'000 to CHF 94'000. Local Students CHF 19'800. Enquiries: The Admissions Team will support and guide you through every step of the process via the enquiry form and contact channels. Scholarships: The school does not offer scholarships.
Scholarships	Scholarships Aiglon offers a small number of fully funded scholarships to students whose families could not otherwise afford an Aiglon education. Since 1991, 134 scholars have been welcomed, with half of current scholars funded by the generosity of parents and alumni. Scholarships are funded through annual giving, endowment, private sponsorship, and reinvested operating expenditures. Aiglon Scholarships cover tuition and the additional costs needed for scholars to engage fully in life at the school, including accommodation, meals, wellbeing programmes, tutoring, on‑site healthcare, ski passes and equipment, expeditions, and cultural programmes, plus costs such as residence tax, permits, laundry, bedding, house equipment, travel insurance, and planned social trips. An extra allowances provides for personal expenses, travel, educational trips, medical expenses, school uniforms, technology needs, and private lessons. Scholarships are merit‑based and means‑tested, overseen by the Scholarship Committee; priority is normally given to applicants entering Year 11 or Year 12, and scholarships remain with the student until graduation pending annual achievement reviews. Arriving students are integrated through a buddy system, welcome meetings, mentorship, houseparent support, tutor and wellbeing support, university advising, and travel assistance. Information Booklet offers full details of the scholarship process. Independent Scholarship Pathway is available via an online application. Applications for Year 11 (US Grade 10) must be at least 15 by September 1, and for Year 12 (US Grade 11) at least 16 and at most 18 by September 1. The process includes online application, school reports, references, and financial information as part of later stages. For inquiries, scholarships@aiglon.ch.	Scholarships The school does not offer scholarships.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waiting List occurs when a place cannot be offered immediately; those on the waiting list are reviewed during monthly enrolment assessments, and final decisions are communicated on a monthly cycle.	Waitlist —
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