Inter-Community School Zurich vs Obersee Bilingual School

	I Inter-Community School Zurich Zug, Switzerland	O Obersee Bilingual School Zug, Switzerland
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CHF 12,600 - 39,700	Fees / year CHF 16,590 - 37,590
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum Swiss Curriculum, IB (DP), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum), Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 850	Pupils 450
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 15
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language German, English
Opened	Opened 1960	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The Inter-Community School Zurich is located at Strubenacher 3, 8126 Zumikon, Switzerland. It is the oldest international school in the Greater Zurich Area. ICS is an English-language international school in Zurich, serving students aged 24 months to 18 years. ICS offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme for Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Studies, with a bilingual diploma option.	Location OBS is located at Sihleggstrasse 9, 8832 Wollerau, Switzerland. It sits on the shores of Lake Zurich, about 20 to 30 minutes from Zurich. It is just a 2‑minute walk from a quiet forest and 10 minutes from downtown Pfäffikon, and is easily reachable from the A3 highway.
Stages	Stages Preschool (Nursery to K2); Primary School (Grades 1-5); Middle School (Grades 6-8); Diploma Studies (Grades 11-12).	Stages OBS offers Babycare, Preschool, Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School, and Upper School.
School type	School type English-language international school offering the IB Programme across all levels (PYP, MYP, DP).	School type OBS is a bilingual, international school serving German- and English-speaking students. The language of instruction alternates weekly between German and English from Kindergarten to Grade 6; from Grade 7 the same language is used for each subject for a full year (Mathematics is the exception, with language alternation by semester). From Year 10 onwards, subjects are taught in the language aligned with the chosen school-leaving qualification, with IB Diploma and Federal Matura offered.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix 50+ nationalities are represented; families come from 55 countries.	Pupil nationality mix One third Swiss families, one third families with a Swiss parent, and one third families from 41 nations.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The Learning Support Department provides support for students with learning challenges, offering in-class and withdrawal services and developing individual support plans with input from parents and teachers to help each student access the curriculum.	Additional learning support OBS+ Learning Support provides support across the curriculum.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation Switzerland
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure Early care is available from 7:15 am; late care is available from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The timetable includes arrival at 8:15–8:30 am and dismissal at 3:55 pm; on Wednesdays dismissal is at 12:40 pm; a late bus is available at 5:10 pm (17:10) on Monday–Thursday.
Bus service details	Bus service details ICS runs its own school bus service for students aged 4 and older, with drivers licensed for safety; registration is via the Parent Portal. Public transport access includes Bus 919 and the Forchbahn S18 to Waltikon, with a short 5–7 minute walk from the stops.	Bus service details In collaboration with Eberhard Travel, OBS provides a bus service with two routes: Pfäffikon – Altendorf – Lachen – Feusisberg – Wollerau and Thalwil – Horgen – Wädenswil – Wollerau. Timetable: Mon–Fri arrival 8:15–8:30; departure 15:55; Wednesdays 12:40; Mon–Thu late bus departure 17:10.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application Fees - Application Fee: CHF 500 per student, one-time, non-refundable. Payment of the Application Fee is required before an application will be considered; it is paid online by credit card (MasterCard or VISA). Capital Fund Fee (one-time) - Nursery entrants: CHF 1,000, one-time, non-refundable. - Pre-Kindergarten or higher entrants: CHF 5,000, one-time, non-refundable. - Children moving from Nursery to Pre-Kindergarten are invoiced CHF 4,000 with the first tuition invoice (returning students pay the difference if applicable). Tuition Fees (annual and per-term breakdown) Note: Tuition is billed in two portions: 60% due at the start of the school year and 40% due in the winter term. The per-term amounts below show Term 1 = 60% and Term 2 = 40% of the annual fee. - Nursery – Half Days: Annual CHF 13,100. Term 1 (60%): CHF 7,860. Term 2 (40%): CHF 5,240. - Nursery – Full Days: Annual CHF 24,300. Term 1: CHF 14,580. Term 2: CHF 9,720. - Preschool (Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten 1) – Half Days: Annual CHF 17,100. Term 1: CHF 10,260. Term 2: CHF 6,840. - Preschool (Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten 1) – Full Days: Annual CHF 26,900. Term 1: CHF 16,140. Term 2: CHF 10,760. - Kindergarten 2: Annual CHF 33,000. Term 1: CHF 19,800. Term 2: CHF 13,200. - Primary School (Grades 1–5): Annual CHF 33,000. Term 1: CHF 19,800. Term 2: CHF 13,200. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): Annual CHF 37,100. Term 1: CHF 22,260. Term 2: CHF 14,840. - Senior School (Grades 9–10): Annual CHF 38,200. Term 1: CHF 22,920. Term 2: CHF 15,280. - Senior School (Grades 11–12): Annual CHF 39,900 (this amount includes IB/DP examination fees). Term 1: CHF 23,940. Term 2: CHF 15,960. (All tuition figures and the 60%/40% billing split are defined in the school Financial Regulations & Schedule of Fees.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard billing: First portion of tuition (60%) is due in August; second portion (40%) is due in January. An optional instalment plan is available subject to a 2% administration charge (arrangements must be made with the Finance Office). - Late payment charge: 2% per month applied to any past-due balance. The school may require immediate payment of the full amount if instalments are missed and may withhold access to classes, examinations, diplomas, reports or transcripts for unresolved arrears. - Administrative charge for withdrawal: CHF 2,000 if a student is withdrawn after confirming re-enrolment for the upcoming academic year (does not apply to Nursery). Nursery cancellations given less than two months before contract start incur a CHF 200 cancellation fee. - Late enrolment: Tuition is prorated monthly (11 months from the start to the end of the academic year) and includes an enrolment surcharge of 5% of the annual fee (not applicable to Nursery). - Early withdrawal: Written notice required with two months' notice to the end of the month; tuition will be prorated monthly and a 5% withdrawal surcharge of the annual fee applies (different notice terms apply for Nursery). Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed as an offered service or fee in the school's Schedule of Fees; no boarding fees are charged. Other costs and separately invoiced items - Items invoiced separately include (but are not limited to): school bus service; additional learning support beyond the included hours; after-school care; after-school clubs; lunch (except Nursery, which includes meals as noted); extra-curricular activities and associated transportation; hire of musical instruments; additional or replacement IT devices, textbooks or library books; athletics equipment; retaking or remarking of IB examinations; and other specific assessments or costs as notified. Refund information and fee remission - No refunds of fees are issued for absences due to family holidays, public holidays, illness, accident, or temporary closure of the school for reasons beyond the school's control. No refunds are granted in the event of permanent exclusion. - The school may grant a limited tuition fee remission in exceptional circumstances for one year only; remission requests can only be considered after completion of the student's first year at the school and must meet published deadlines for application. Fee payment options and bank details - Tuition payment method: Credit cards are not accepted for tuition fee payments. International bank transfer in Swiss Francs (CHF) is the recommended method for tuition payments; payor-borne bank charges apply. - Bank details on tuition payment instructions: - Account holder: Stiftung für die Inter-Community School Zurich - Bank: Zürcher Kantonalbank - IBAN: CH12 0070 0111 0014 6486 7 - BIC / SWIFT: ZKBKCHZZ80A - Application Fee payment method: The non-refundable application fee is paid online by credit card (MasterCard or VISA). Administrative and contractual notes (financial liabilities) - Parents/guardians are contractually responsible for all fees regardless of billing address. Charges for late payment, actions for debt recovery, and withholding of academic records for outstanding balances are applied in accordance with the Financial Regulations. The school requires parents to maintain health, accident and liability insurance for each enrolled child.	Fee details Application and Assessment Fees - Application fee (one-off, non-refundable): CHF 300 for Baby Care / Preschool; CHF 500 for Kindergarten, Primary, Middle and Upper School. - Placement assessment (required for new entrants from Grade 5; also available on request to existing students): CHF 1,190. Registration and One‑off Payments - One-off registration cost for new entrants from Kindergarten: CHF 2,500, due on signing of the contract and invoicing. Deposit / Security Payment - A deposit is required on contract signing. Deposit amounts by level: - Baby Care / Preschool: CHF 1,500.00. - Kindergarten: CHF 2,500.00. - Grades 1–6 (Primary): CHF 3,000.00. - Grades 7–9 (Middle): CHF 4,000.00. - Grades 10–13 (Upper): CHF 5,000.00. - Deposit refund: the deposit will be refunded if the child leaves after completing at least one academic year and all associated fees for that period have been paid; otherwise the right to a refund is forfeited. The deposit is separate from school fees. Annual tuition and care fees (school year 2025/2026) — fees shown per school year, with a per-term breakdown given as equal third installments - Baby Care (days per week and annual fee): - Two full days (minimum): CHF 16,590 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 5,530.00. - Additional full day: CHF 7,990 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 2,663.33. - Five full days: CHF 37,590 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 12,530.00. - Separately booked extra day: CHF 209 each — Per term (1/3): CHF 69.67. - (Annual fees for Baby Care include meals, snacks and nappies up to size 6.) - Preschool (Pre‑K): - Two full days (minimum): CHF 15,590 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 5,196.67. - Additional full day: CHF 7,190 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 2,396.67. - Five full days: CHF 35,240 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 11,746.67. - Half day (Wednesday and/or Friday morning): CHF 4,219 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 1,406.33. - Separately booked extra half-day: CHF 109 — Per term (1/3): CHF 36.33. - Separately booked extra day: CHF 209 — Per term (1/3): CHF 69.67. - (Preschool annual fees include meals, snacks and nappies up to size 6.) - Kindergarten (school and childcare fee per school year, including lunch and snacks): - 3½ days (minimum: 5 mornings, 2 afternoons): CHF 28,649 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 9,549.67. - 4 days (5 mornings, 3 afternoons): CHF 29,890 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 9,963.33. - 4½ days (5 mornings, 4 afternoons): CHF 31,229 per year — Per term (1/3): CHF 10,409.67. - Extra half-day booked separately: CHF 109 — Per term (1/3): CHF 36.33. - Grades 1–6 (Primary): CHF 34,990 per school year — Per term (1/3): CHF 11,663.33. (Includes 4.5 days of lessons per week; meals and snacks included.) - Grades 7–9 (Middle School): CHF 35,490 per school year — Per term (1/3): CHF 11,830.00. (Includes five days of teaching; learning community sessions and lunch/snacks included.) - Grades 10–13 (Upper School — IB or Matura): CHF 35,990 per school year — Per term (1/3): CHF 11,996.67. (Includes five days of teaching; learning community to 17:00 on some days; lunch/snacks included.) - Meal opt-out (from Grade 7 onwards): a reduction of CHF 810 per year if the student opts out of school meals; canteen meal price when taken: CHF 12 per meal. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices (tuition and care) are issued via eBill or as a PDF by e‑mail and carry a payment term of 30 days. Overdue invoices trigger staged reminder fees: CHF 10 at 10 days overdue, CHF 30 at 20 days overdue, CHF 50 at 30 days overdue. - The fee regulations treat tuition as fixed annual costs; there is no entitlement to fee reduction for absences (illness, holidays, public holidays). - The fee schedule includes a sibling discount: 10% discount on school fees for the second child; when three or more children are enrolled, each child (including the first) receives a 10% discount. Boarding - Boarding is not provided; OBS operates as a day school with services such as school meals, bus service, early and late care and holiday clubs. Other chargeable items and typical additional costs - School camps, study trips, winter sports days, cultural weeks, external examinations (IB, Matura) and voluntary language/computer diplomas are charged separately; examples of camp/trip cost ranges (school year 2025/26): - Years 5–6 summer camp: approx. CHF 400–600 per stay. - Years 7–9 camps: approx. CHF 600–1,200 per stay. - Grade 10 camps: approx. CHF 900–1,500 per trip. - Grades 11–12 study trips abroad: approx. CHF 900–1,800 per trip. - These trip and camp charges are invoiced separately and based on actual costs. - Early care (07:15–08:15), late care (16:00–18:30) and Wednesday afternoon supervision have supplementary fees when applicable (examples from the fee schedule: booked quarterly in advance CHF 10–CHF 61 depending on service; last-minute booking higher). Charges for late pickup after 18:30 are specifically set (e.g., CHF 60 for first 15 minutes, CHF 80 for each subsequent 15-minute interval). Holiday-care daily rate (from Preschool) example: CHF 150 per day. - The school bus is provided by an external operator; bus stops and prices vary by route and are charged separately. Refunds and non‑refundable items - Application fee: non-refundable. - Deposit: refundable only after the child has completed at least one academic year and all associated fees for that period have been paid; otherwise it may be forfeited. - Registration fee for new entrants from Kindergarten (CHF 2,500) is payable on signing; the fee regulations set out that certain one-off payments are due on contract signature. - Excursion, travel and external-provider costs (flights, train tickets, accommodation) are generally non-refundable by the provider and may still be charged if the child does not participate, except where a medical certificate for illness is provided in time, as detailed in the fee regulations. Fee payment options - Invoices are issued via eBill or as a PDF by e-mail; the fee regulations specify the invoicing channel and payment term (30 days) but do not list a specific set of payment instruments (e.g., credit card, direct debit) in the published fee regulations. Families receive an invoice and arrange payment according to the invoice instructions (eBill in Switzerland is commonly settled via electronic banking). If you need the figures presented in a different currency or split on a different instalment basis, the annual amounts provided above can be converted or divided accordingly.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement No uniform is required. Students dress respectfully, safely, and appropriately for school activities. For PE, wear dark shorts or sweatpants and a white or orange T-shirt.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Hot lunch programme offered. Primary School students register for hot lunch each semester; Middle and Senior School students receive a lunch card that can be preloaded with credit and may use it to purchase breakfast, hot or cold lunch, and snacks; Senior School students may use their own debit card or pay with cash. Menus and more details are available on the School Services page.	Food options Head chef Marc Köhler and the team provide well-balanced meals using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Two to three days a week feature meat or fish, with vegetarian and vegan options available on other days, and Bircher muesli served daily. Over 550 meals are prepared daily.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is a non-profit foundation governed by a Board of Trustees.	Governance and ownership The school is an independent German and English school. It is part of the Cognita group.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes for Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Studies. It is the only school in Zurich offering all three IB programmes. ICS teaches in English and offers a bilingual IB Diploma option. The school serves students from 24 months to 18 years across Early Childhood, Primary Years, Middle Years, and the Diploma Programme. The IB framework emphasizes an international mindset and inquiry-based learning. The ICS difference comes from developing the whole child and supporting community engagement through Round Square.	Curriculum details The school uses a bilingual curriculum in English and German. From Kindergarten to Grade 6, the entire curriculum is delivered in English and German, with the language of instruction switching weekly. From Grade 7, subjects are taught in the same language for a full academic year per subject, with Mathematics taught in the other language each semester to reinforce skills. From Year 10 onward, the language of instruction is determined by the chosen school-leaving qualification. The curriculum also includes Future Skills to develop contemporary and future-oriented competencies.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Approximately 7.2 students per teacher (456 students / 63 teachers).
Exam results	Exam results ICS is an IB World School offering the Diploma Programme. All Diploma students are encouraged to take the IB Diploma exams. ICS Diploma students can qualify for the IB Bilingual Diploma. Diploma students on average earn significantly better scores than the worldwide average.	Exam results IB Diploma Program with 48 students; 6 successful Matura graduates; 3 successful IB Diploma years.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Top university admission is supported by a rigorous university counselling programme that opens doors to universities around the world. In the IB Diploma Programme, students choose six courses to study, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level from the IB groups; the sixth subject can be from the Arts or a second subject in Sciences or Individuals and Societies.	Higher education progression Upper School prepares students for success in the IB Diploma or Federal Matura. The IB Diploma Program is offered with 48 students; the school has produced Matura graduates (6) and completed 3 IB Diploma years.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented From Year 7, students may apply to become Advanced Learners. Advanced learners receive coaching and have monthly meetings with a learning coach to review progress; they can choose where they learn and which inputs they attend. Competencies for advanced learners include strong organisation, time management, focus and self-reflection, objective setting, healthy screen time, conflict-resolution skills, and self-awareness.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning There are programmes across the school focusing on the emotional, social and physical well‑being of students. In Senior School, positive pro‑social behaviours are promoted through five principles: safe, ready to learn, respectful, responsible, and kind.	Social & emotional learning The school has a social-emotional learning programme and counselling services. Aikido is integrated into the curriculum to support mental resilience and conflict resolution. The environment prioritizes emotional safety and wellbeing through staff training in safety procedures and safeguarding.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Learning Support Department provides necessary support for students with learning challenges to participate in the school community and access the curriculum while recognising their strengths. Support is delivered along a continuum through consultation with classroom or specialist teachers, in‑class support, withdrawal sessions, or a combination, based on each learner's needs and documented in an individual plan developed with the student, parents and staff. The Primary Learning Support Programme supports unique student needs to maximise academic and social‑emotional growth, while the Senior School Learning Support helps identified learners access the IB curriculum and develop effective study skills, with both out‑of‑class and in‑class options plus after‑school support as needed.	Special educational needs (SEN) OBS+ Learning Support provides in-class, small group, or individual support. Learning support teachers work with classroom and specialist teachers to give the right help at the right time. German and English as an Additional Language programmes build language skills, with a placement assessment for new Middle and Upper School applicants (Grades 5–12).
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided to help students succeed in the mainstream classroom. EAL support is available in the Primary School, and an English as an Additional Language Programme is in place to assist non‑native speakers within the ICS curriculum.	English as an additional language German and English as an Additional Language programmes build language skills, with a placement assessment for new Middle and Upper School applicants (Grades 5–12).
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing There are school‑wide programmes focused on the emotional, social and physical well‑being of students, with emphasis on positive behaviours in Senior School through the five pro‑social principles: safe, ready to learn, respectful, responsible, and kind.	Mental wellbeing Counselling services are available and an integrated social-emotional learning programme supports student well-being. Aikido is used to foster mental resilience and stress management within the curriculum.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The safety, welfare and wellbeing of students is ICS's highest priority. The safeguarding framework is the Child Protection Policy, outlining expectations and practices around safe recruitment and ongoing professional development of staff, aligned with international child protection standards. All prospective staff undergo background checks, including criminal record checks and reference checks.	Safeguarding A comprehensive safeguarding and safety framework prioritizes student safety, with a Designated Safeguarding Lead and deputies, mandatory safeguarding training for staff, clear reporting procedures, and policies covering first aid and anti-bullying. The framework emphasizes early intervention, parent communication, and age-appropriate education on personal safety, including online risks.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus hosts nearly 1,000 people daily. The ICS Cafeteria provides nutritionally evaluated lunches with vegetarian options; students may bring lunch or buy hot meals. The campus includes a gym, a dance studio, and outdoor spaces including the ICS Research Garden. There is on-site health services with a school nurse. A bus service transports students, and an after-school care programme is provided.	Facilities overview OBS is located near Lake Zurich, providing an ideal learning environment that combines accessibility with natural beauty. The campus's proximity to both urban amenities and natural surroundings creates opportunities for experiential learning and outdoor activities. The school is a 20–30 minute distance from Zürich, making it accessible while preserving a peaceful, focused learning environment away from urban distractions. Our facilities are state-of-the-art and designed to support modern learning while inspiring creativity and collaboration. Technology-enabled classrooms and specialized labs for science and arts are complemented by outdoor learning spaces and sports facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities ICS offers a diverse Athletics programme to students from Grade 4 through Grade 12. In 2023-2024, 44 teams competed across 3 seasons and 420 student participants. Seasonal sports include Boys' and Girls' Basketball, Cross Country, Indoor Soccer, Skiing, Swimming, Outdoor Soccer, Track & Field, Tennis, Volleyball, and Softball. ICS is a member of SGIS, ISSL, and SCIS leagues, with fixtures and tournaments. Signups open via myICS 3-4 weeks before the start of a season.	Sports facilities Sports facilities are part of the campus. Outdoor learning spaces are integrated with the sports facilities. The facilities support physical activity and environmental awareness. The school invests in maintenance and upgrades to ensure access to the tools and environments needed for learning.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities English is the language of instruction and the IB Programme is offered for the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and the Diploma Programme. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme supports students with limited English, with dedicated teachers and assistants. German is taught from Preschool through Grade 10, and students can study German as Language A or Language B. After-school Home Language classes are available in a wide range of languages, with reimbursement support for recognised Home Language courses. In Senior School, French and Spanish are offered as language options alongside German, and IB Diploma Programme students study at least two languages, with the Self-Taught Language A option available. The Forest Programme provides outdoor learning (Waldkinder); the Preschool has access to two courtyards, a mud kitchen, a vegetable patch, a pond, and a large wood-chipped playground.	Academic facilities Technology-enabled classrooms support modern learning. Specialized labs for science and arts are available. Every space is designed to enhance the learning experience. Outdoor learning spaces complement indoor facilities. Maintenance and upgrades ensure students have access to up-to-date resources.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities All ICS students have opportunities to participate in extra-curricular activities beyond the regular school day; more than 50 rotating clubs are offered across three terms. Examples of Middle and Senior School ECAs include Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh, Math Competition Club, LEGO Robotics Club, Debate Club, Philosophy Club, Visual Arts Club, Design Club, String Ensemble, Vocal Group, Rock Club, Science Club, Theatre Production, Board Games Club, Literature Club, and Esports Club. Senior lunchtime activities include Environmental Committee, Student Bridge, Performing Arts Council, Athletics Council, Service as Action, Phoenix Club, Buddy Program, Yearbook Club, Student Lens Newspaper, International Club and Chess Club. Primary School ECAs include School Garden Club, Mindfulness, Maths Club, Ecovengers, iPad Photography, Board Games Club, Musical Club, Tuneful Tigers, Perform a Play, Yoga Adventures, Story Workshop, Show Tunes Club, Just Dance, Art Jam, and Beginners Violin; some clubs are offered bilingually in English and German. Specialised ECAs provided by external organisations include Creative Coding & LEGO Robotics, Science Clubs, Intersoccer, Playball, Acrokids Gymnastics, Young Engineers, Chess Club, Breaking & Streetdance, Ballet and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; not all clubs are offered every season.	Extra curricular facilities Clubs and activities include E-Sports, Prime Time Math Club, Miss Marcela's Cooking & Baking Club, and Aikido. Future Skills programs include OBS Media Academy, OBS Space Agency, and OBS Ocean & Life Explorers. There are 30+ leisure clubs. Leisure activities, holiday clubs and after-school services extend participation beyond the school day.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History ICS was founded in 1960 as a Primary school for English-speaking expatriates, starting with 80 students from 10 nationalities. It is the first international school in Zurich. Today, ICS is an International Baccalaureate World School educating children aged 24 months to 18 years, with around 800 students from 55 nationalities. It is fully authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organisation to offer three IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP) and is the only Round Square school in Zurich, with accreditation from CIS and NEASC.	History —
Community	Community With families from 55 countries, the ICS Parent Association offers a vibrant social network within the ICS community. The Parents' Association is an important part of the school community, aiming to enhance the children's educational experience and foster a welcoming, international community. All parents and guardians of ICS students are members of the PA, and it is guided by an Executive Board each year. The PA supports charities and organizes events throughout the year, including the Welcome Back Picnic, Book Fairs, Halloween Party, Winter Market, Zurich Walking Tour, and the International Festival.	Community OBS has a diverse, international community with one third Swiss families, one third families with a Swiss parent, and one third families from 41 nations. The school offers 30+ leisure clubs to support students' interests. Clubs and activities include E-Sports, Prime Time Math Club, Miss Marcela's Cooking & Baking Club, and Aikido.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The ICS Parents' Association is a strong, supportive community with families from 55 countries. All parents and guardians of ICS students are members of the PA. An Executive Board oversees the PA each year; the 2025-2026 Board includes Carli Shelley as President, Marianne Nourbakhsh as Primary Vice-President, Lorena Moro as Middle School Vice-President, Nienke Sijbring as Senior School Vice-President, Elisabetta Vigano Rizzi as Secretary, Zurine Catalano-Aperribay as Treasurer, and Stefania Vancheri as Communications. The PA supports several charities, including ICS scholarship students from Nepal who study IB Diploma at ICS with host families. Throughout the school year, the PA organizes Welcome Back Picnic, Book Fairs, Halloween Party, Winter Market, Zurich Walking Tour, the International Festival, Workshops, and PA/Parent Conversations with the ICS Leadership Team.	Parent teacher association OBS Parents Association serves as a vital bridge between parents and the school, safeguarding student, parent, and school interests while providing support services to create an optimal learning environment. The association welcomes and integrates new families, particularly those from abroad, by facilitating connections between parents and helping them build social networks within the school community. The association remains politically and religiously neutral and operates through a General Meeting, Board of Directors, Project Teams, and Auditors. All parents with enrolled children automatically become active members unless they opt out. The association organizes events, manages funds from activities and donations, and provides a formal channel for parents to contribute to the school community while building lasting friendships and support networks.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers more than 50 rotating clubs in Middle and Senior School. Examples include Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh International Award, Math Competition Club, LEGO Robotics, Debate, Philosophy, Visual Arts, Design, Science, Theatre Production, Board Games, Literature and Esports. Senior Student Leadership lunchtime activities include Environmental Committee, Student Bridge, Performing Arts Council, Athletics Council, Service as Action and International Club; students may lead or co-create activities under staff supervision, developing leadership and collaboration skills.	Academic & intellectual Clubs include Euler Club, Maths Program, Prime Time Math Club and Number Wizards. Other options include Science through Play and Coding and Robotics. The after-school programme extends learning beyond class and supports academic growth.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The arts and creative program includes Visual Arts Club, Theatre Production, String Ensemble, Vocal Group and Rock Club. Primary School ECAs include Musical Club, Tuneful Tigers, Show Tunes, Just Dance, Art Jam, Beginnings Violin and Jewellery Making, with some clubs offered bilingually in English and German. External providers offer specialised ECAs such as Creative Coding & LEGO Robotics with TechSpark Academy and XLabs Science Clubs.	Arts & creative Clubs include Adventures in Art 1 and 2, Art (language Swiss German) and Kunst. Miss Marcela's Afternoon Talent Club and Miss Marcela's Cooking & Baking Club foster creativity. Dance, Ballet, Theatre and Piano Lessons offer performance and musical expression.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language International Club provides opportunities for cultural exchange and global connections. Duolingo Club supports language learning, and some Primary School ECAs are offered bilingually in English and German.	Cultural & language French, German Story Telling Club, Swiss German, Chinese and Spanish are offered. Spanish Mother Tongue and other language clubs support bilingual development. Clubs provide language practice in authentic, after-school contexts.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Board Games Club and Esports Club provide social and hobby-based activities. Chess Club is available as a senior activity, alongside lunchtime clubs such as Yearbook and International Club. Senior Student Leadership Lunchtime Activities foster collaboration and friendships through varied clubs.	Social & hobbies Clubs cover a wide range of hobbies and social interests, including E‑Sports, CrossFit Kids and Playball. Dance Club, Karate, Aikido and Chess promote teamwork and leisure. Adventures in Art, Theatre and Music clubs offer creative outlets.
Community & service	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh International Award is offered as an ECA, combining physical activity, service and outdoor journeys. Service as Action is a Senior Leadership lunchtime activity focusing on service and community projects. Environmental Committee and other service-oriented clubs encourage hands-on community engagement.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Senior students may lead or co-create activities under staff supervision, developing leadership skills. Leadership opportunities include Environmental Committee, Performing Arts Council, Athletics Council, CAS Committee, Yearbook Club, and International Club. The Duke of Edinburgh program and other clubs provide experience in project planning, teamwork and professional skills.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Extra-curricular activities support a well-balanced lifestyle and personal growth. Primary School ECAs include Mindfulness and Yoga Adventures to promote well-being. The Duke of Edinburgh International Award encourages physical activity and outdoor journeys as part of holistic development.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Physical activity is a focus with CrossFit Kids, Darren's Football Training and Forest Adventures. Dance Club and Karate contribute to fitness and coordination. The after-school programme supports wellbeing through structured, safe activities.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the language of instruction; the IB programme is offered across the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. The DP includes an IB Bilingual Diploma option, with English A and German A as Language A courses, and other languages available as Self-Taught Language A. In Senior School, French and Spanish are offered in addition to German (through Grades 11–12). German is the language of the host community; all students study German through Grade 10, with EAL support for learners of English.	Language provision Languages of instruction are English and German. The entire curriculum is delivered in English and German from Kindergarten to Grade 6, with weekly language switching. From Grade 7, instruction is in the same language for a full year per subject (Mathematics is the exception). From Year 10, the language of instruction for subjects is determined by the chosen school-leaving qualification.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching English is the language of instruction. The IB Diploma Programme includes an IB Bilingual Diploma option; English A and German A are offered as Language A courses, with other languages available as Self-Taught Language A.	Bilingual teaching The school offers bilingual education in English and German. From baby care through kindergarten to Grade 6, the curriculum is delivered in English and German, with the language of instruction switching weekly. From Grade 7, students receive instruction in the same language for an entire year for each subject, with Mathematics as the exception where the teaching language alternates each semester. From Year 10 onwards, subjects taught in German or English are determined by the chosen school-leaving qualification.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs A bilingual immersion approach is used, with native speakers of both German and English on staff. The curriculum alternates weekly between German and English instruction from Kindergarten through Grade 6, and key terms for every new subject are introduced in both languages to build a bilingual vocabulary.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions ICS Inter-Community School Zurich accepts applications year-round via the online application portal. To apply, provide English school reports for the past two years, a recent photograph, a copy of the child's birth certificate or passport, any educational test results, a teacher's recommendation, a completed and signed financial regulations form, and a non-refundable application fee of 500 Swiss Francs for the 2025-2026 academic year. The Admissions Handbook explains the admission process and is available for 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. The school is an English-language international school located in Strubenacher 3, 8126 Zumikon, Switzerland. Processing begins once the completed documentation and the fee are received, and the school provides a timeline: in February, ICS invites current families to re-enrol; in March, applications from corporate partners are processed; in April, all applications are processed with priority to corporate-partner families with a child already enrolled, then corporate-partner families, then families with a child already enrolled, then alumni children, then international families, then local internationally mobile families; processing continues from April to August; the school year begins in August and new students may join during the school year where space permits.	Admissions Step 1: Get in Touch and Visit OBS. Visit the campus to see classrooms, meet teachers, and get a feel for the learning environment. Open days are offered to help families understand whether OBS is the right fit. Step 2: Complete the application form. To begin, complete the online School registration form. The application fee is non-refundable and does not guarantee admission. Fees are CHF 300 for Baby Care / Pre-kindergarten and CHF 500 for Kindergarten / Primary School / Middle School / Upper School. Step 3: Submit the relevant documents. For Early Years there is no requirement to submit documentation prior to enrollment. For Primary, Middle and Upper School, provide the most recent report card or end-of-year report; if there are diagnosed conditions or if the child receives additional learning support or therapy, provide further information including recent diagnostic reports and the student's IEP if applicable. OBS reserves the right to offer a conditional place pending receipt of all required documents. If capacity is reached, your child can be placed on the waiting list. Step 4: Assessments, Trial Days and Feedback. Primary candidates undergo an internal assessment in language proficiency and mathematics. Admission to Middle and Upper School requires a comprehensive evaluation, including language skills, potential analysis, and a personality assessment by a psychologist. Each candidate attends two trial days, with one day in a German-language classroom and the other in an English-language setting. Afterward, there is a consultative meeting with the relevant Department Head; for middle and upper school, the evaluating psychologist discusses the results. Step 5: Offer of a place. If the application is approved, the Admissions Team extends an offer of enrollment contingent on space availability. A Confirmation of Acceptance will be sent to you via email after we receive the full registration fee, which is non-refundable. If capacity is reached, your child will be added to our waiting list and you will be notified once a space becomes available. Admission approvals depend on the provision of all requested documentation and the payment of the application fee.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist If capacity is reached, a waiting list is used. Families are notified when a space becomes available.
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