International School Lausanne vs La Garenne International School

	I International School Lausanne Lausanne, Switzerland	L La Garenne International School Lausanne, Switzerland
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CHF 28,200 - 38,990	Fees / year CHF 36,000 - 115,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum)
Pupils	Pupils 900	Pupils 150
Typical class size	Typical class size 19	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English, French	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1962	Opened 1947
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The International School of Lausanne is located at Chemin de la Grangette 2, 1052 Le Mont-sur-Lausanne, Switzerland. The campus sits in Le Mont-sur-Lausanne just north of Lausanne. A TL Route 18 bus stop is directly in front of the school, linking to Lausanne city centre, with connections from Lausanne-Riponne and other stops along the route. The school also operates a daily external bus service with stops chosen for safety and convenience.	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 Early Childhood (3-5), Primary Years Programme (5-11), Middle Years Programme (11-16), Diploma Programme (16-18).	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 not-for-profit and an IB World School offering the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme.	School type The school is an international boarding school offering boarding and day programmes.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Student Support Services coordinate learning support to meet individual needs. Types of support include Progress Plans, Individualised Education Plans, and 1:1 support, with well-being counselling. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support helps students developing English language skills.	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 ISL uses external bus companies to operate a daily bus service for Reception 4 to Year 13; the service is not door-to-door; stops are chosen for safety, location, and convenience. Public transport is also available, with a TL Route 18 bus stop directly in front of the school linking to Lausanne city centre. Transport inquiries: transport@isl.ch; School Bus Service document available.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Acceptance fees - There is no application fee. A one-off, non-refundable acceptance fee of CHF 5,000 is payable at the time a place is confirmed for students entering Year 1 to Year 13. Students entering Reception 3 or Reception 4 are not charged this acceptance fee. Tuition fees (annual and per-term) — academic year 2025/2026 Notes: ISL invoices tuition per term (three terms per academic year) and, except for Reception 3 where fees are paid monthly, the standard payment pattern is termly. The per-term figures shown below are the annual fee divided by three and are presented to two decimal places. The amounts are shown in Swiss francs (CHF). - Reception 3 (Early Childhood): fees are paid monthly; programme options vary by number of sessions per week (monthly and annual rates vary with the chosen weekly sessions). (See Billing schedule and Reception 3 note below for payment timing.). - Reception 4 (equivalent to full-time kindergarten): Annual CHF 28,200 — Per term CHF 9,400.00. - Year 1 to Year 5: Annual CHF 29,010 — Per term CHF 9,670.00. - Year 6 to Year 8: Annual CHF 33,290 — Per term CHF 11,096.67. - Year 9 to Year 10: Annual CHF 36,190 — Per term CHF 12,063.33. - Year 11 to Year 13: Annual CHF 38,990 — Per term CHF 12,996.67. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard invoicing and due dates: Autumn term (August–December) is invoiced in June and payable in August; Winter term (January–March) is invoiced in November and payable in December; Spring term (April–June) is invoiced in February and payable in March. For students in Reception 3, fees are payable monthly from September to June. Optional services (transportation, meals, private lessons, optional trips) are invoiced separately each term a few weeks after mandatory fees. - Initial payments: when a place is offered prior to 31 March, the acceptance fee (if applicable) and the first term's tuition and other academic-related fees must be paid within ten working days to secure the place; if the offer is made after 31 March the first term's tuition and other academic-related fees are due within ten working days of the offer. Invoices are generally payable within 30 days unless otherwise stated on the invoice. Boarding fees - ISL operates as a day school; boarding provision is not applicable. Other academic-related costs and optional services - Curriculum-related and other academic-related fees vary by year group and by term. Typical additional academic-related charges (field trips, curriculum visits, ski/ice-skating programmes, course-related visits) can range from CHF 0 up to approximately CHF 2,500 per school year depending on year group and activities. Specific components such as transport, school meals, private lessons, and optional school trips are invoiced separately on a term-by-term basis. The school's published schedule of other academic-related fees gives detailed term-by-term examples by year group. - Uniforms and school-shop items: ISL does not require a compulsory uniform; purchases from the school shop or recommended items are optional and would be charged separately if bought. Discounts - Sibling discount: 5% for the third child, 10% for the fourth child, and 15% for the fifth child and above. Discounts are applied in descending order by year level. - Annual upfront payment discount: Families invoiced directly by the school who pay the full annual tuition before the start of the academic year receive a 1.5% discount on the full annual tuition. Employer-sponsored invoicing arrangements are supported where a company signs an agreement to be invoiced directly. Refund and withdrawal (key points) - Acceptance fee: non-refundable. - New enrolments cancelled before the published deadline for notification of withdrawal for a term: only the acceptance fee is due. If cancellation occurs after the published deadline for notification of withdrawal for the relevant term, tuition and other academic-related fees for that term become payable in full. The school publishes explicit notification deadlines by term (for example: to leave at the end of the Autumn term, notification must be received by 30 September; to leave at the end of the Winter term, notification must be received by 15 January; to leave at the end of the school year, notification must be received by 31 March). Fees for a term that has started are payable in full. Temporary withdrawal rules and conditions for holding a place are set out in the school's terms and conditions. Fee payment options and invoicing details - Initial enrolment payments (acceptance fee and first term fees) are to be paid by bank transfer using the school's provided banking details. Invoices for subsequent fees are issued termly and are payable within the stated invoice terms (generally within 30 days unless otherwise stated on the invoice). Employer-sponsored invoicing is available under specific agreement. Optional service charges such as transport or meals are invoiced separately at the beginning of each term. Summary (practical points for parents) - Expect a one-off acceptance fee of CHF 5,000 on confirmation of a place for Year 1–13 students; Reception 3 and Reception 4 are exempt from that acceptance fee. - Annual tuition by year group (2025/26): Reception 4 CHF 28,200; Years 1–5 CHF 29,010; Years 6–8 CHF 33,290; Years 9–10 CHF 36,190; Years 11–13 CHF 38,990 — with standard termly billing (one third of the annual amount) except Reception 3 (monthly). - Additional academic-related charges and optional services (transport, meals, trips, private lessons) are invoiced separately by term and can add up to a few thousand francs depending on year group and participation. (End of fees overview)	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 —	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 There is no school uniform. Students dress in their own style.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Students can bring packed lunches or have optional hot meals provided by Eldora. The secondary school uses a cafeteria card to purchase from three menus—Vitality, Escale, and Natura/Mediterraneo—with a vegetarian option and a salad buffet; a take-away South Building Café is available for Years 12 and 13.	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 —	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 ISL Board, composed of eight to twelve members representing the community, acts as the guardian of the School and monitors its progress in fulfilling its mission. The Board and the School Director work in partnership to set policies and ensure the necessary conditions for ISL's aims.	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 The International School Lausanne is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). A CASEL-based well-being curriculum supports students' social and emotional development. PYP serves ages 3–11, emphasizing developing the whole child as an inquirer and fostering international-mindedness and personal values. MYP serves ages 11–16, helping students build knowledge, understanding, attitudes and skills to participate actively in a changing world. DP serves ages 16–18, providing a broad range of subjects with depth to prepare for higher education.	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 —	Student teacher ratio Small class sizes.
Exam results	Exam results IB Diploma results for the Class of 2025 show an average score of 35.7 out of 45. 99% of graduates obtained the IB Diploma. 24% scored 40–45 points, and 39% earned a bilingual Diploma. University destinations are listed for graduates pursuing higher education worldwide.	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 pursue higher education at a wide range of 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 Counselling promotes holistic development and well-being for every student. The well-being programme is built on CASEL's five competencies: self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills, responsible decision-making, and social awareness. Counsellors work with classroom teachers, school leadership, and the Student Support Services team to identify and meet individual needs. The service includes education, prevention, and crisis interventions delivered through one-on-one sessions when needed, as well as regular classes focused on psychosocial development and awareness. The approach supports students to become confident, independent learners.	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) ISL provides learning support for mild to mild-to-moderate needs through a progression that includes Progress Plan, Individualised Education Plan, and 1:1 support. These supports are planned from data collected by classroom teachers and, when needed, external evaluations, and are delivered by the Student Support Services Coordinator. Support is designed to enable independent learning and to allow students to participate in mainstream classes. Costs for 1:1 support are in addition to standard ISL fees.	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 English as an Additional Language (EAL) support addresses the needs of students from non-English-speaking backgrounds who are developing interpersonal and academic English. The EAL department provides a range of direct and indirect support, including individual instruction, small-group instruction, in-class support, co-teaching with homeroom or subject-specific teachers, and provision of modifications to help students access the mainstream curriculum. The flexible programme allows support to be tailored to each student's needs.	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 Counselling supports mental well-being and personal growth for every student. The well-being programme includes education, prevention, and crisis interventions delivered through one-on-one sessions and regular classes on psychosocial development. It is grounded in CASEL's five competencies, and the well-being team collaborates with teachers, leadership, and other ISL specialists to address individual needs.	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 Keeping children safe is the responsibility of the whole school community and safeguarding is woven into every aspect of school life. Designated Safeguarding Leads are in place across the school sections, supported by counsellors and nurses who respond to concerns. A confidential safeguarding reporting channel is available via a reporting form and directly to the designated leads. The school maintains safeguarding policies, documents, and access to external services as needed.	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 One campus, four buildings. The campus is close to nature and the city and built to support student well-being. The primary school library has more than 14,000 references. A 400-seat auditorium is used for music and drama. The South building opened in 2015. The campus includes three gym halls, four tennis courts, a full-sized Astroturf football pitch, a basketball playground, and a fitness centre, plus a maker space and a recording studio.	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 There are three gym halls. There are four tennis courts. There is a full-sized Astroturf football pitch. There is a basketball playground. There is a fitness centre.	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 The primary school library has more than 14,000 references. An Early Childhood building is purpose-built for 3 to 5 year olds. A maker space supports hands-on learning. A recording studio supports music and media projects. The North building sits in nature and forms part of the school's state-of-the-art 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 The After-School Activities (ASA) programme offers more than 125 activities to choose from, and more than 80% of students take part in at least one activity each week. Most activities are included in the school fees. The activity list includes art porcelain painting, chess club, coding, concert band, drama, robotics, beekeeping, football, tennis, cross country, netball, choir, and many more. The arts programme hosts student art and photography exhibitions and drama productions, with music practice rooms and ensembles such as concert band, choir, and string ensemble. The Impact Hub provides an innovation-focused space with projects and competitions such as the Earth Prize and collaborations with EPFL.	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 The English School of Lausanne opened with seven students in the rehearsal rooms of the Municipal Theatre in 1962. The following year it was renamed The Commonwealth-American School. Within five years it grew to over 100 students from nine countries. The school was renamed the International School of Lausanne (ISL) in 1997. We now welcome close to 1,000 students.	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 ISL is an IB World School with a diverse community of students and staff united by a commitment to well-being and innovative learning rooted in strong values. Core values include honesty, equity, self-control, respect, and care, and learners are encouraged to be knowledgeable, open-minded, caring, and courageous while building meaningful connections within a multicultural environment. The school offers programs that strengthen the community, including The Impact Hub, Student Support Services, and the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.	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 PTA is a very active and dynamic part of ISL life. The PTA has two main goals—welcoming new families, and enhancing the lines of communication within the school through its executive committee. It brings the community together through ongoing social and cultural events—coffee mornings, Lausanne city events, the yearly Spring Fair, and more. Parent clubs include hiking, netball, photography, and unihockey, and International Day is one of the PTA activities. The PTA has organised events such as Welcome Coffee, Back to School Brunch, Halloween, and Thanksgiving.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ISL offers after-school activities that strengthen academic and intellectual growth. Debating, math, computer coding, robotics, and SciTech build analytical and problem-solving skills. Model United Nations provides opportunities for research, argumentation, and policy analysis. LAMDA and other language-informed activities support communication and presentation skills.	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 The arts program provides a large variety of arts activities and hosts student art and photography exhibitions each school year. Primary and secondary students perform drama productions such as The Jungle Book and Romeo and Juliet. A wide range of music is offered with practice rooms, concert band, choir, and string ensembles.	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 ISL offers language and culture-related activities in the after-school programme. Ateliers de cuisine / French provide French language cooking activities, and Knitting in French supports language practice. LAMDA is offered for language-based performance skills. Model United Nations fosters international understanding and cross-cultural communication.	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 ISL's after-school activities include many social and hobby clubs: Chess club, Beekeeping, Comic book drawing, LEGO building, Life drawing, Mahjong, Film-making, Creative writing, Paper arts, Recording studio, Live band, and more. Debating and Model United Nations also provide forums for discussion and teamwork. There are 46 non-sport activities highlighted as part of the ASA.	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 ISL's service learning is central to a holistic education and connects curriculum to local and global initiatives. The program is guided by five Service Learning Pillars and supports partnerships with EVAM, Caritas, Cartons du Coeur, Cerebral, and La Soupe Populaire. Students can engage with advocacy groups such as the Gender Equity Group and the Eco Society. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award also includes a community service component.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional ISL supports leadership and professional development through student governance and the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award. The Student Council provides opportunities for student leadership and decision-making. The Award offers Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels with components including service, skills, physical recreation, and journeys.	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 ISL emphasizes wellbeing through sport and physical activity. The ASA offers a wide range of sports and fitness activities, and ISL competes in around 200 competitions annually. Activities include yoga, Pilates, indoor climbing, and other wellness offerings alongside team sports such as football, basketball, netball, and swimming.	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 ISL delivers instruction primarily in English. The Primary School offers a bilingual programme (Years 3–6) with co-teaching in English and French. French is taught across Early Childhood, Primary, and Middle Years, with 40% of Reception 4 to Year 2 spent in French integration. In the Middle Years Programme, Language Acquisition options include French, Spanish, or German, and Language and Literature is taught in English and French.	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 Two classroom teachers, speaking English and French, co-teach the Primary Years Programme through a Content and Language Integrated Learning Approach (CLIL). The bilingual programme is for Year 3 to Year 6.	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 Early Childhood immerses children into an English setting with daily French activities. Reception 3 class is bilingual. From Reception 4 to Year 2, students spend 40% of their time with a French teacher co-teaching with the homeroom teacher, developing French skills through core curriculum and French lessons. Each class will have at least seven hours of French integration per week.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations IB World School; NEASC accredited; CIS Accredited	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1: Start the process by submitting an inquiry or beginning an online application. The Admissions team provides guidance throughout the process. You can request to be contacted via an inquiry form, and you can return to an in-progress application via the Admissions portal at any time. There is no charge at the application stage. Step 2: Gather all requested documents as outlined in the admissions materials. Useful documents include Age equivalence, Admissions policy, Terms and Conditions, FAQ Admissions, and the High School Profile; prepare copies and translations as needed. These materials cover the information you need to complete the application process. Step 3: The next steps after we receive your application: Your child's application is added to our waiting list. The waiting list is used until a place becomes available, and you will be informed as soon as a space opens. Step 4: As soon as a place becomes available you will be informed. The Admissions team will notify you when a space arises and you can proceed with the enrollment steps. Step 5: Our principals will assess your child's application. The assessment determines eligibility for admission based on the program requirements and your child's profile. Step 6: Upon successful assessment, an offer of a place will be made. If offered, you will be invited to proceed with enrollment steps and formalities. Step 7: You will be asked to sign the enrollment contract and pay the acceptance and the first term's fees. This confirms the placement and initiates the payment obligations for enrollment. Step 8: You will receive confirmation of your child's enrolment. Final enrollment is completed when the contract is signed and payments are settled.	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 —	Scholarships The school does not offer scholarships.
Waitlist	Waitlist ISL uses a waiting list system. After submitting an application, the child's application is added to the waiting list. When a place becomes available, you will be informed and the enrollment process continues with the formal assessment and potential offer.	Waitlist —
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