BKA International School vs ELA Basel - The Swiss British School of Basel

	B BKA International School Basel, Switzerland	E ELA Basel - The Swiss British School of Basel Basel, Switzerland
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CHF 23,700 - 32,000	Fees / year CHF 23,800 - 28,800
Age range	Age range 0 - 18 years	Age range 0 - 16 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, Swiss Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Swiss Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 350	Pupils 360
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English, German	Instruction language English, German, French
Opened	Opened —	Opened 1993
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Basel, Switzerland. BKA International School Basel operates across Basel city campuses: Wettstein campus (Alemannengasse 22/24, 4058 Basel); Spalentor Campus (Schützengraben 35, 4051 Basel); Gellert 37 campus (Gellertstrasse 37, 4052 Basel); Gellert 25 campus (Gellertstrasse 25, 4052 Basel); Rittergasse campus (Rittergasse 20, 4051 Basel).	Location ELABasel is located in Basel, Switzerland, with two campuses in Basel's historic centre. The address Gartenstrasse 93, 4052 Basel is listed for the school. Basel is a family-friendly, well-connected and international city; the campuses are within walking distance or a short tram ride from Altstadt Grossbasel and other inner-city areas, and the Early Years site is near Basel SBB.
Stages	Stages Daycare (3 months – 4 years); Primary (4–12 years; KG, Grades 1–6); Secondary (12–18 years).	Stages Early Years (3 months – 4 years); Primary School (Aged 4 – 12); Secondary School (Aged 12 – 16).
School type	School type Bilingual private IB World School.	School type International Kita, Primary and Secondary school; not-for-profit association.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix 360 pupils from 35 countries.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Student Support.	Additional learning support Inclusion programme removes barriers and provides personalised support using a graduated ‘waves' model. Wave 1: for all students and included in standard fees; high quality teaching and reasonable adjustments. Wave 2: for some students and included in standard fees; additional short-term support sessions in small groups by a Learning Support Teacher to accelerate progress in academics, language, social, emotional or physical skills. Wave 3: for a small number of students and included in standard fees; long-term targeted and personalised support in small groups or 1:1 by a Learning Support Teacher; collaborative team with teachers, Learning Support Teachers, external specialists and parents; Personalised Learning Plan and Pupil Passport. Wave 3+: additional fee; 1:1 support and external therapies through partnerships. Types of support include: Academic skills; Social and emotional; Speech and language; English as an additional language (EAL); Motor skills and Physical & Sensory; Talented and more able.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Switzerland	Country affiliation Switzerland
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure ELABasel operates 50 weeks per year. After-school and enrichment programmes run from 15:30–18:00.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fees - No separate, published one‑off application or registration fee amount is listed; applications are submitted through the school's online enrolment portal. Tuition fees by year group (core semester fees — two semesters per academic year) - Kindergarten Year 1–2 (ages 4–6): CHF 11'850.- per semester (CHF 23'700.- per academic year). - Primary Grades 1–6 (ages 6–12): CHF 12'250.- per semester (CHF 24'500.- per academic year). - Lower Secondary Grades 7–9 (ages 12–15): CHF 14'500.- per semester (CHF 29'000.- per academic year). - Upper Secondary Grades 10–12 (ages 15–18): CHF 16'000.- per semester (CHF 32'000.- per academic year). Billing schedule and payment terms - The academic year is divided into two semesters; fees are invoiced on a per‑semester basis. A single payment is expected at the beginning of each semester. On request, fees may be paid in five monthly instalments subject to a 3% surcharge. A 10% sibling discount may be applied to the lowest fee when a second child is enrolled. Core tuition does not include extracurricular activities or holiday camps. Boarding fees (if applicable) - No boarding programme or boarding fees are listed for the school; the school operates multiple day campuses for the stated age ranges and does not publish boarding charges. Other costs and fees - Uniform: Primary students are required to wear a school uniform from Grade 1; the school sells core items (white or blue polo shirt; dark blue pullover or cardigan). Other items (trousers/shorts/skirts/shoes) may be purchased independently. - Extracurricular activities: Prices vary by class and semester; these activities are charged separately from core tuition. - Holiday camps: Coverage options and weekly rates are published as CHF 450 per week (coverage 08:00–15:00) and CHF 585 per week (coverage 08:00–19:00). - Afterschool care (flexible daily coverage 15:00–19:00): one day per week for a full semester CHF 500; full week for a full semester CHF 2'500. - Any additional fees for materials, special trips, external exam charges or optional services are billed separately when applicable; core semester fees exclude these items. Refund information - No specific, published refund or withdrawal terms are provided alongside the core tuition schedule; families should confirm refund and withdrawal terms as part of the enrolment contract and invoicing process. Fee payment options - Fees are payable as a single payment at the start of each semester, or on the offered monthly instalment plan (5 instalments with a 3% surcharge). Specific accepted payment instruments (for example: bank transfer, credit card, direct debit) are not listed in the published fee information and should be confirmed with the school's admissions/finance office during enrolment.	Fee details Application fees and deposits - Early Years: no registration fee or deposit is required for Early Years families. - Primary (paid before the child's first day): Registration fee — CHF 500 per child (one-time, non-refundable). - One-time Development Fund donation at Primary contract signing: CHF 1,500 for the first child; CHF 1,000 for each additional child (one-time, non-refundable; tax deductible). - Association membership (verein) administrative fee: CHF 75 per member per year (annual, non-refundable). Tuition fees — Early Years (applicable from August 2025) - Full-time monthly fees (full-time = 100% enrolment): - Infants up to 18 months: CHF 3,750 per month. - Children 18 months to 4 years: CHF 2,800 per month. - Minimum attendance: 40% per week. Fees are calculated pro rata by enrolment percentage (example: 62% enrolment = CHF 2,800 x 62% = CHF 1,736). Specific example enrolment-percent fee bands are published (for example, 40% = CHF 1,120–CHF 1,500; 100% = CHF 2,800–CHF 3,750 depending on age). - Extra session rates (per session / per day when adding to contracted schedule): - Morning session (until 12:00): CHF 80 (children >18m) / CHF 105 (children ≤18m). - Morning + midday/lunch (until 14:00): CHF 110 / CHF 145. - Morning + midday + afternoon (until 16:00): CHF 130 / CHF 170. - Whole day (pick up by 18:30): CHF 160 / CHF 210. - Extra hours extending the day: CHF 20 / hour (children >18m) and CHF 22 / hour (children ≤18m). - What Early Years fees include: all meals and snacks (including infant powder milk formula where applicable), outings, curriculum materials, resources and hygiene products (wipes, nappies, etc.). The Basel-Stadt subsidy for city residents is deducted where applicable. Tuition fees — Primary School (applicable August 2025 – July 2026) - Registration and donation at contract signing: Registration fee CHF 500 per child; one-time Development Fund donation CHF 1,500 for first child and CHF 1,000 for each subsequent child. Association membership CHF 75 p.a. also applies. - Full-time Primary (5 days) tuition: Semester fee CHF 13,000 (CHF 26,000 per year). Quarterly fee CHF 6,640 (equivalent to CHF 26,560 per year when paid quarterly). Parents may choose catering (morning snack and hot lunch) on a semester basis at CHF 1,000 per semester for 5 days/week. - Family discounts (applied to contracted base fees): 10% discount on the second child's fees and 15% discount on the third child (and any further children) for families privately funding fees. No family discount is given where any portion of fees is invoiced directly to an employer or covered by Basel-Stadt. Discounts do not apply to lunch or after-school fees. - What Primary tuition covers: exercise books, laboratory practicals, school laptop, local transport (BVB) for class trips and excursions, weekly swimming lessons with qualified coaches, curriculum materials and the majority of curriculum-related excursions. What it does not cover: textbooks indicated in the book list, school lunch (if not enrolled in catering), after-school care, trips/camps that are charged separately, replacement cost for lost/damaged materials (including laptops). Tuition fees — After School and Vacation Programmes (applicable August 2025 – July 2026) - After School Programme (semester fees per day): - Basic (15:30–16:30 Mon–Thu): CHF 285 per semester (per day rate multiplied by number of days per week contracted). - Extended (16:30–18:00 Mon–Thu): CHF 380 per semester. - Enrichment 1 hour (15:30–16:30): CHF 500 per semester. - Enrichment 1.5 hours (15:30–17:00): CHF 625 per semester (care through 18:00 included). - Enrichment 2 hours (15:30–17:30): CHF 850 per semester (care through 18:00 included). - Instrument lessons (15:30–17:30 Mon–Thu), half-hour lessons charged at CHF 47 (individual) / CHF 42 (pair) / CHF 35 (group). - Friday programmes: CHF 850 (Friday full programme 14:00–16:00) and CHF 350 (Friday after-school 16:00–18:00) as applicable. The After School Programme fees include materials and an added afternoon snack. Semester-payment model applies; per-day rates scale simply for multiple contracted days (e.g., 3 days × CHF 285 = CHF 855). - Vacation Programme: fees vary by programme and are charged separately; programmes run Monday–Friday for primary-aged children (4–12) during most school holidays. Tuition fees — Secondary School (note on available published schedules) - The school publishes detailed year-group fee schedules covering Reception/Year 1, Years 2–7 (Primary) and Secondary (Years 8–9) for its 2026/2027 fee tables; the Primary and Early Years tuition figures above are those published for the current academic year (Aug 2025–Jul 2026) and the school's published year-group payment options and sibling discount frameworks apply as shown. For the published year-group breakdowns that the school provides for the forthcoming 2026/2027 cycle, monthly, quarterly, semester and annual instalment options and sibling discounts are set out in a separate year-group table. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard billing options and timing for tuition: payment is due per semester; for Primary a quarterly split is available for a small premium. For other levels the school offers a standard payment plan of 10 monthly instalments (August–May) with payments due on the 30th of each month. Early-payment discounts are offered: 5% for full annual payment by 31 May (Early Bird), 4% for full annual payment between 1 June and 30 August, 2% for semester payments (two instalments: 30 August and 30 January), and 1.5% for quarterly payments (four instalments: 30 August, 30 November, 28 February and 31 May). - If a newly enrolled student does not take up the confirmed place on the agreed start date, 25% of the annual tuition fee becomes immediately due and payable. Families requesting bespoke payment plans must sign a formal payment schedule agreement. Overdue balances may incur an annual interest charge of 5% plus collection fees. Withdrawals and refunds - Registration fees and the one-time Development Fund donation are non-refundable. - If a newly enrolled student does not take their confirmed place, 25% of the annual tuition fee is payable immediately. - Withdrawal during the school year requires notice equivalent to three months of tuition fees. The contract renews automatically for the following academic year unless written notice of termination (with signed withdrawal form) is received and confirmed before 31 March of the current academic year. Overdue balances may attract interest and collection fees. Boarding - Boarding is not provided; there are no boarding fees. ELABasel operates as day care, Early Years (Kita), Primary and Secondary day provision with two city campuses. Other costs and charges - School lunch / catering: optional catering (morning snack + hot lunch) is charged at CHF 1,000 per semester for full-time Primary (5 days/week). A separate school lunch payment option is published as CHF 1,050 payable in two instalments (August & January) for those who opt into the School Lunch programme. - Textbooks indicated on the book list, after-school care (if not contracted), certain trips, outings and camps, and replacement costs for lost, stolen or damaged school materials (including school laptops) are not included in tuition and are charged separately. Instrument lesson charges and after-school programme charges apply as noted above. - Uniform: no compulsory uniform fee is listed in the published fee schedule; uniform costs are not specified as a school-charge in the published fee material. Textbooks and some programme costs remain the family's responsibility. Fee payment options (mechanics and conditions) - Instalment options: semester payments, quarterly payments, and a 10-instalment monthly plan (August–May) are offered depending on the level and option chosen. Early-payment discounts apply for full-year, semester or quarterly pre-payments as above. Families requesting tailored payment plans sign a formal payment schedule. Overdue balances can incur 5% interest and collection fees. - Specific payment methods (for example, bank transfer or card) are not itemised in the published fee schedule; the school indicates alternative payment methods may be available and that invoicing and payment mechanics are arranged through the finance office. For detailed method options, invoices and payment instructions are provided with enrolment documentation. Summary of key headline figures (CHF) - Early Years (full-time monthly): Infants ≤18m CHF 3,750; children 18m–4y CHF 2,800. - Primary (full-time 5 days): Semester CHF 13,000 (CHF 26,000 per year); Quarterly CHF 6,640 (CHF 26,560 per year). Catering per semester CHF 1,000. Registration CHF 500 per child; Development Fund donation CHF 1,500 / CHF 1,000 thereafter. Family discounts: second child 10%, third+ 15% (private-pay families). Withdrawal: three months' tuition notice; failure to take a confirmed place: 25% of annual tuition payable. Overdue balances: possible 5% annual interest plus collection fees.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements ELABasel is open 50 weeks a year. It offers wrap-around care from 07:30 to 18:00 at the Primary School and 06:30 to 18:30 at Kita/Early Years. Before-school Booster classes in Maths, English, German and French are available, and an After-School Programme runs from 15:30 to 18:00 each day, with over 25 enrichment programmes.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options —	Food options ELABasel has its own kitchens, staff, and dining rooms. Healthy and delicious menus are created with advice from a child nutritionist. Morning snack and a hot lunch are served daily for all children. Afternoon snack is provided for children in the extended day and after-school programme.
House system	House system —	House system In the Primary School all children are part of a House, with House Captains elected each semester. House points are awarded for effort or achievement and announced in weekly assemblies. Houses participate in events such as the annual Swimming Gala and Basler Stadtlauf Run. The House system originated in British schools.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership The Board of ELABasel International School AG provides strategic and professional leadership. A corporate structure (AG) was adopted in late 2025. ELABasel is Cambridge International Accredited, Basel-Stadt Approved, and a COBIS and SGIS member; the school maintains a parent voice through the Friends of ELA (FELA) association. Daily operations are led by the General Manager and Leadership Team, with Class matters raised via the Parent Class Representative; governance inquiries may be directed to the board at board@ela-basel.ch.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details BKA International School is a bilingual private school offering English and German instruction from early years, with French introduced from Grade 3. The early years use Curriculum 21 together with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), with a play-based approach and emphasis on language development. Primary builds on that foundation with a developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters knowledge, skills, and curiosity year by year. In Secondary, the program uses IGCSEs and A-Levels to prepare for Swiss and international universities. BKA holds Basel-Stadt Alignment and Transition Agreement ensuring the IB curriculum aligns with Lehrplan 21 and is an IB World School. The school operates across Wettstein, Spalentor, Gellért, and Rittergasse campuses serving ages 3 months through 18 years.	Curriculum details ELA Basel follows the Cambridge International Curriculum, adapted for its international character and Swiss affiliation. The Cambridge pathway is taught primarily in English and prepares students for entry to schools and universities worldwide. German is taught from Pre-School to Year 7 and French is introduced in Year 3. Families may also choose a bilingual Swiss stream that follows the Swiss Lehrplan 21, enabling direct transition into the Swiss system. In the bilingual pathway, pupils may progress to Year 11 after Year 10, with dual Swiss and international accreditation; the Cambridge stream progresses through IGCSE to A-Levels. Upper Primary covers English, Mathematics, Science, German, French, Geography, History, Music, Computing, Personal Social Health and Cultural Education, Design and Technology, Art and Design, and Physical Education (including weekly swimming).
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio High adult-to-student ratio with class teachers supported by teaching assistants enabling personalised teaching.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results 60% of children achieve above-average results in English, Maths and German on internationally benchmarked tests.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Through IGCSEs and A-Levels, graduates are prepared for Swiss and international universities, with A-Levels recognised by universities across Europe, the UK, North America, and beyond.	Higher education progression Graduates transition to a variety of secondary schools in Basel and Germany; ELA Basel holds a Basel-Stadt Secondary Transition Agreement, allowing Year 7 reports to be accepted by public secondary schools without entrance tests. Destinations include Hüslimatt Sekundarschule Oberwil; Freies Gymnasium Basel; Sekundarschule Binningen-Bottmingen; Regionales Gymnasium Laufental-Thierstein; Freie Evangelische Schule Lörrach; Sekundarschule Allschwil; Holbein Sekundarschule (Basel-Stadt); Hans-Thoma Gymnasium Lörrach; Bezirksschule Möhlin; Sekundarschule Sandgruben; ISB, SIS, Minerva and Academia; Sevenoaks School (UK); Tanglin Trust School (Singapore).
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented Enrichment Programme provides more than 30 activities outside the standard curriculum; after-school and enrichment offerings include sports, crafts, STEM, music and language lessons, with structured activities designed to broaden knowledge and skills beyond the standard curriculum. Targeted 1:1 or small-group support for additional needs is available at additional cost.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school delivers a bilingual education that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. It is rooted in a Basel community and guided by international best practice. The school welcomes children from 3 months through Grade 12 into a nurturing and academically strong environment. Students thrive within a culture of excellence, respect, and global citizenship, preparing them to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally in an ever-changing world. The mission emphasizes social and emotional development as an integral part of preparing students to contribute to global communities.	Social & emotional learning The school values the whole child and provides a well-rounded education that supports academic, social and emotional growth. Pastoral care and the House System foster social development and leadership across age groups. A dedicated, highly qualified staff create a supportive environment where children feel empowered in their learning. The school emphasises that happy children learn best and prioritises well-being in daily life. Families are invited to engage in class activities, curriculum nights and community events to support children's social development.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) The school uses a tiered system of learning support led by inclusion specialists. Interventions may be delivered in the classroom by the teacher and teaching assistant. Where needed, additional support may target mathematics, English, social and emotional development, speech and motor development. For students with little or no English, targeted English support is provided. A Personal Learning Plan may be developed with goals agreed with the child, parents and class teacher, and 1:1 or small-group support can be offered for an additional charge.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language From day one, English and German are the languages of instruction, with French introduced from Grade 3. Teachers are fluent and guide students through a curriculum that develops strong academic skills in every language. The bilingual approach uses each language in lessons, activities, and daily routines to build reading, writing, speaking, and thinking in both languages. Students become confident communicators who can navigate multiple languages and cultures.	English as an additional language The school offers a bilingual German-English Programme with a strong emphasis on French. German language pathways are designed to support every child with Advanced, Intermediate and Beginner tracks and progression through CEFR levels. From Reception onward, Beginner and Intermediate groups are taught separately to tailor instruction, with progression to Advanced as language progress develops. From Year 2, learners enter the Intermediate Programme and the Advanced Programme is available for higher proficiency. French is taught as a third language, with two hours per week, and a dedicated pathway exists for native French speakers. Language enrichment activities and outings supplement core language learning.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The school emphasizes emotional intelligence, character development, and social responsibility as part of a holistic approach to education.	Mental wellbeing The school values the whole child's emotional and social development in a nurturing environment. Care and Well-Being focus on safeguarding, safety, welfare and well-being as a central priority. Pastoral care and the House System promote social development and a sense of belonging, supported by a dedicated staff team. Happiness is central to learning, with staff ensuring children feel supported and empowered in their daily experiences. Family engagement through events and activities further supports students' social and emotional wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safety, wellbeing, and protection of every child are the highest priorities. Safeguarding is embedded in school culture and underpins everything the school does. Clear reporting procedures, strong supervision, and openness ensure students feel confident speaking up and seeking support. The school works closely with families and authorities when necessary, always acting in the best interests of the child. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility and forms the foundation for learning, growth, and wellbeing.	Safeguarding The safeguarding and child protection statement prioritises the safety, welfare and well-being of children. All staff must undergo safeguarding training, and their ongoing training is required. Applicants must provide original police checks for all countries of residence for the previous ten years. Every three years staff sign a self-declaration form and complete an enhanced Swiss Police Check as part of our licensing agreement with Canton Basel-Stadt. Applicants for advertised posts must complete an ELA Basel application form.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school operates across five Basel campuses: Wettstein campus (Alemannengasse 22/24, 4058 Basel) for ages 3 months–6 years; Spalentor Campus (Schützengraben 35, 4051 Basel) for ages 3 months–6 years; Gellert 37 campus (Gellertstrasse 37, 4052 Basel) for ages 3 months–6 years; Gellert 25 campus (Gellertstrasse 25, 4052 Basel) for ages 6–9 years; Rittergasse campus (Rittergasse 20, 4051 Basel) for ages 9–18 years. The school is bilingual and internationally accredited as an IB World School, with an alignment and transition agreement with Basel-Stadt based on the Swiss national curriculum.	Facilities overview ELABasel is situated on two campuses in the historic centre of Basel at Gartenstrasse 93, 4052 Basel. It serves Kita, Primary and Secondary students and delivers the Cambridge curriculum with instruction in English, German and French. The curriculum places emphasis on STEM alongside the arts and music. The Scala Theatre Basel hosts the annual Scala performance and music lessons take place on campus. Afterschool and Enrichment Programmes run from 15:30 to 18:00 with activities including coding languages and sports.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities Sport and Health places sport and physical activity at the center of education. A dedicated movement and fitness area hosts weekly classes, including German language sessions. Through PE, swimming and orienteering, students develop fitness, teamwork and confidence. The school also uses Basel's local sports fields and recreational spaces and participates in inter-school competitions and sports days.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities —	Academic facilities ELABasel emphasises hands-on STEM learning with science room resources and a hands-on approach across year groups. The STEM program includes a Science Fair and STEM Week where students design investigations, collect and analyse data, and reflect on findings. Older students have experiences such as organ dissections guided by guest professors. The Cambridge curriculum underpins learning and emphasizes inquiry and problem solving.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Across five campuses, students can choose from over 45 enriching extra-curricular activities spanning sports, the arts, humanities, technology, and more. On-site after-school care runs until 19:00, including homework support and enrichment activities.	Extra curricular facilities The Afterschool & Enrichment Programme offers more than 30 activities open to ELABasel families and external families. After-school sessions run from 15:30 to 18:00 with a mix of sports, reading and structured play. Enrichment activities cover sports, crafts, coding, language lessons and music and change each semester. Music education includes instrument lessons, choirs, private lessons on campus, opportunities to perform at assemblies and at the Scala Theatre Basel, and ABRSM exams; Vacation Programmes are also offered.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History BKA International School is a bilingual private school in Basel that is internationally accredited as an IB World School and has an alignment and transition agreement with Basel-Stadt based on the Swiss national curriculum. The school operates across five Basel campuses, with Wettstein (Alemannengasse 22/24, 4058 Basel) and Spalentor (Schützengraben 35, 4051 Basel) for early years; Gellert 37 (Gellertstrasse 37, 4052 Basel) for ages 3 months–6 years; Gellert 25 (Gellertstrasse 25, 4052 Basel) for ages 6–9; and Rittergasse (Rittergasse 20, 4051 Basel) for ages 9–18. The Rosental Campus opened in August 2021 to welcome upper primary classes. The BKA Experience centers on curiosity, discovery, and learning within a bilingual IB framework.	History Founded in 1993 as Tiny Tots, ELABasel began as a small English-speaking childcare centre and has grown into ELABasel – The Swiss British School, offering Early Years through Secondary education. It is an independent, not‑for‑profit organisation with two central Basel sites, Gartenstrasse 93 and St. Alban‑Vorstadt 32, renovated to provide modern, child‑centred learning environments. The Gartenstrasse site, Ulmenhof, dates back to 1893; ELABasel moved in in 2008 and a new playground was added in 2019. In 2013 ELABasel moved its primary school to St. Alban‑Vorstadt 32, and in August 2022 expanded to Wildensteinerhof at St. Alban‑Vorstadt 32, marking a new chapter in the school's history. Gartenstrasse accommodates over 200 children in Early Years and Lower Primary, while the Primary section at St. Alban‑Vorstadt serves over 150 children aged 5–12.
Community	Community Community at BKA is built around a five-campus, international environment with a broad program of campus life. The school offers more than 45 extracurricular activities across its campuses, spanning sports, the arts, humanities, technology, and more, and provides on-site after-school care until 19:00 with homework support. Holiday programs are available across the campuses, expanding opportunities for students during school breaks. The campus-life program emphasizes inclusion and opportunities for students to connect beyond classroom learning.	Community ELABasel welcomes new families all year round and is a vibrant, diverse community. Parents are invited to participate in class activities, curriculum nights and other community events, and staff organise regular family events to foster connections. The school hosts an international community with families from over 35 nations, and a strong partnership with parents supports the learning journey.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The PTA at BKA is made up of committed and engaged parent members who play an active role in supporting the life of the school. Representing a diverse international community, PTA members work with school leadership and staff to enhance students' educational experience and well-being. PTA members contribute their time, expertise, and perspectives to strengthen communication between families and the school, support community-building initiatives, and assist with events and projects that enrich school life. Their involvement reflects a shared commitment to the school's values and to fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. Through constructive dialogue and active participation, PTA members serve as an important link between the parent community and the school.	Parent teacher association Friends of ELABasel (FELA) is the parent association that supports and fosters a sense of community among parents and carers of ELABasel children. FELA schedules events throughout the year for Early Years and Primary families, including Family Game Night, Movie Night, Pre‑Stadtlauf Reception, and Winter Fayre and Market. It is run by volunteers, with involvement ranging from baking for events to helping plan and run them. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday during term time at 8am, and information is available by contacting FELA via FELA@ela-basel.ch.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual There are over 45 extra-curricular activities spanning sports, the arts, humanities, technology, and more. These activities extend learning beyond the classroom and help students develop new skills. Activities are available across five campuses.	Academic & intellectual ELA Basel offers two curriculum pathways: the Cambridge International Stream and the Swiss–International Bilingual Stream. The Cambridge Stream uses the Cambridge International Curriculum and leads to IGCSE qualifications and A levels. German is taught from Pre-School to Year 7 and French is introduced in Year 3; the bilingual stream aligns with Lehrplan 21, allowing direct transfer into the Swiss system up to Year 11 after Year 10. The pathways provide flexibility for families to plan long term across local and international education settings.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The arts are included in the extra-curricular activities.	Arts & creative Music and Performing Arts are part of the core program. The Music curriculum teaches instruments such as ukulele, keyboard, and guitar, includes choirs and weekly assemblies, and features an annual Scala musical show at Scala Theatre Basel. Students may take private or small-group lessons on campus, and ABRSM exams are offered. An annual Scala production combines music, drama and creativity for the school community.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English and German are used from day one, with French introduced from Grade 3.	Cultural & language ELA Basel runs a bilingual German-English programme with a strong emphasis on French. German is taught from Reception to Year 7 with Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced pathways, and French is introduced in Year 2 as a third language, following CEFR guidelines. Heritage language classes and language outings enrich the program, including events such as Language Flea Market and Winter Theater. A bilingual playgroup, Groupe de jeux anglais franais, supports young learners in bilingual play.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies On-site after-school care until 19:00 includes homework support, enrichment activities, and social time. This supports social interaction and flexible family schedules.	Social & hobbies ELA Basel offers an Afterschool & Enrichment Programme with over 30 activities, covering sports, crafts, STEM and music. The after-school programme runs in two parts: a 15:30–16:30 session with supervised activities and a 16:30–18:00 session with structured clubs. Year-group enrichment includes activities such as board games, art and painting, sport, sewing, cooking, and Friday football. These clubs foster teamwork, reading, creativity and social interaction.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service The School Council selects school charities and guides fundraising with teacher supervision. ELA Basel contributes regularly to charities and shares updates with students. Charities include The Holee Children's Home, the Swiss School for Guide Dogs for the Blind, Sternschnuppe, and the Basel Regional Animal Welfare Association, among others; additional donations have supported the Roger Federer Foundation, Save the Children, and local causes.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional In Primary, a House System assigns children to houses with vertical-age groups; House Captains are elected each semester and house points are tallied in weekly assemblies, with events like Swimming Gala and Basler Stadtlauf. The School Council leads in planning fundraising and community initiatives, providing student leadership opportunities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The program includes sports as part of the extra-curricular activities, contributing to students' lifestyle and wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport and Physical Education are central to the curriculum, emphasizing teamwork, perseverance and a healthy lifestyle. The program includes orienteering, swimming, movement and fitness, and German-language PE to support language immersion; enrichment clubs supplement PE, and inter-school competitions and annual Sports Days promote participation and community.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Languages taught are English, German, and French. In the early years, instruction uses English and German as the primary languages, with French introduced from Grade 3. Teachers are fluent in all three languages and guide students through a curriculum that develops reading, writing, speaking, and thinking skills in each language.	Language provision English is the language of instruction. German is taught from pre-school onwards with a strong emphasis on the language. French is offered from Year 3. Languages taught include English, German and French.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching From the first day, students are immersed in English and German. French is introduced from Grade 3. Lessons, activities, and daily routines are structured so children practice thinking, reading, writing, and speaking in both languages. Qualified teachers fluent in these languages guide the curriculum to develop strong academic skills in each language.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs English and German immersion begins on day one. French is introduced starting in Grade 3. The language-rich environment supports multilingual communication and cross-cultural understanding.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations Cambridge International School affiliation; Cambridge curriculum delivers a rigorous, internationally recognised education and prepares students for global higher education pathways. As a Cambridge school, the curriculum is valued for its academic standards and emphasis on critical thinking. COBIS Patron's Accreditation awarded January 2022; next inspection planned for 2026. SGIS member, the Swiss Group of International Schools. Licensed to operate as a childcare centre and school by the Canton Basel-Stadt Education Department; Basel-Stadt Secondary School Transition Agreement enables Basel-Stadt Year 7 transfer without entrance examinations.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Enquire Or Schedule A Tour: Begin by reaching out to BKA to explore our programmes, curriculum, and community. The admissions team answers questions, provides detailed information, and arranges a personalised school tour so you can see our environment and ethos firsthand. You can schedule a tour or inquire today through the admissions platform. 2. Apply: Decide that BKA is the right fit and submit your application. The admissions team guides families through the necessary paperwork and required documents, ensuring the process is straightforward and transparent through the admissions platform. The Apply Now option starts the submission, and the platform provides status updates as you move through the process. Additional questions are answered by the admissions team as needed. 3. Trial days in School (optional): Trial days in School are optional, but in certain admission cases they may be mandatory. Prospective students spend time in classrooms to experience BKA's learning environment and to engage with teachers and peers. This helps them feel comfortable before joining formally. This experience provides a firsthand impression of daily life at BKA. 4. Admission: Upon successful completion of the paperwork, each application is carefully reviewed, and a formal offer of admission is extended. BKA provides guidance to ensure a seamless transition, including placement in the bilingual programme and support with any remaining administrative or financial matters. This final step marks the beginning of your child's educational journey with us.	Admissions 1. Discover: ELABasel accepts applications year-round and processes them on a rolling basis as soon as they are received. Families relocating during the year can discuss details by calling Primary & Secondary School on +41 61 5000 653 or emailing. Applications should be submitted as early as possible to ensure timely processing. 2. Visit us: Come to visit ELABasel. A warm welcome awaits. Book a visit using the provided Calendly link. Early Years, Primary School, and Secondary School tours are available; you can also take a virtual tour of the campuses. 3. Apply: When you are ready to apply, click on the 'Apply now' button to be taken to the relevant application page. Applications are accepted year-round and are processed on a rolling basis as they are received. Read the admissions policy and related information on the page, and use the 'Apply here' link to start your application.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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