La Côte International School Aubonne vs La Garenne International School

	L La Côte International School Aubonne Lausanne, Switzerland	L La Garenne International School Lausanne, Switzerland
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CHF 19,500 - 38,800	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 EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (DP), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum)
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils 150
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English, French	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2008	Opened 1947
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Chemin de Clamogne 8, 1170 Aubonne, Vaud, Switzerland. The campus is nestled between Lake Geneva and the Jura Mountains. It is a day school.	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 Ages 2-18	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 Day school	School type The school is an international boarding school offering boarding and day programmes.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix 40 nationalities represented	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support The school has a Head of Learning Support and offers Personalised Learning and Intensive English.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation Switzerland
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Foundation 1 to Year 6: registration ends at 8:30; the school day ends at 15:05, with Extended French until 16:05. Secondary (Year 7 to DP2): 8:10–15:50 daily. School bus transport operates with a regular schedule: buses arrive at 8:05 in the morning; EYFS/Primary depart at 15:05 and all students depart at 16:10. A late bus runs at 17:20 for students participating in ECAs, subject to minimum numbers.	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details Regular Bus Service: Students are registered for the school bus service; exact times and bus stop locations are provided before the start of each academic year. Buses arrive at school at 8:05 in the morning, depart at 15:05 (EYFS and Primary) and 16:10 (all students). One-off, short-term, and late bus travel can be arranged; contact transport@lcis.ch for ad hoc trips and late bookings; there is also a late bus at 17:20 for ECAs (subject to minimum passenger numbers).	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Administration and application fees - One-off registration fee (new students, Years 1–13): CHF 3,000. - Annual administration fee (charged at the start of each academic year, per student): CHF 850. Tuition fees (annual and per-term breakdown by year group) All amounts are per student and shown in Swiss Francs (CHF). Tuition is billed as an annual sum and split into terms (Autumn 40% / Spring 40% / Summer 20%). The figures below are the published tuition amounts with their per-term splits. - Foundation 1 (mornings only, no lunch): Annual CHF 19,500 — Autumn CHF 7,800 / Spring CHF 7,800 / Summer CHF 3,900. - Foundation 1 (extra afternoon): Annual CHF 1,950 — Autumn CHF 780 / Spring CHF 780 / Summer CHF 390. - Foundation 1 (full day): Annual CHF 28,400 — Autumn CHF 11,360 / Spring CHF 11,360 / Summer CHF 5,680. - Foundation 2 (full day): Annual CHF 29,200 — Autumn CHF 11,680 / Spring CHF 11,680 / Summer CHF 5,840. - Primary (Years 1–2): Annual CHF 29,600 — Autumn CHF 11,840 / Spring CHF 11,840 / Summer CHF 5,920. - Primary (Years 3–6): Annual CHF 30,700 — Autumn CHF 12,280 / Spring CHF 12,280 / Summer CHF 6,140. - Secondary (Year 7): Annual CHF 34,000 — Autumn CHF 13,600 / Spring CHF 13,600 / Summer CHF 6,800. - Secondary (Years 8–9): Annual CHF 34,600 — Autumn CHF 13,840 / Spring CHF 13,840 / Summer CHF 6,920. - Secondary (Years 10–11): Annual CHF 35,400 — Autumn CHF 14,160 / Spring CHF 14,160 / Summer CHF 7,080. - Secondary Diploma Programme (DP1 & DP2): Annual CHF 38,800 — Autumn CHF 15,520 / Spring CHF 15,520 / Summer CHF 7,760. Note: Foundation 1 part-time places are charged using the ‘mornings only' rate plus the additional afternoon rate. Mandatory activity fees (compulsory; amounts listed separately) - Primary Years 1–4 (4 ski days): CHF 740. - Primary Years 5–6 and Secondary Years 7–8 (1-week ski trip): CHF 1,280. - Secondary Years 9–10 (3-day ski trip): CHF 780. - Residential trip Years 1–7: CHF 610. - Residential trip Years 8–10: CHF 1,070. - DP1 (CAS trip — estimated, varies year to year): CHF 3,000 (estimated). Mandatory activity fees are non-refundable except where a medical withdrawal claim is made through insurance. Optional fees and other recurring charges - Transport (five days a week, charged by zone): - Zone 1 round trip: CHF 4,250; one way: CHF 2,750. - Zone 2 round trip: CHF 4,650; one way: CHF 3,000. - Zone 3 round trip: CHF 5,000; one way: CHF 3,200. Occasional ad-hoc single-journey bookings: CHF 25 / CHF 30 / CHF 35 for Zones 1/2/3 respectively. These transport rates apply for the full academic year; part-week rates and reductions for absence are not available. - Lunch service (five days a week — annual and per-term rates by age group): - Foundation 1–2: Annual CHF 1,950 — Autumn CHF 780 / Spring CHF 780 / Summer CHF 390. - Primary Years 1–2: Annual CHF 2,650 — Autumn CHF 1,060 / Spring CHF 1,060 / Summer CHF 530. - Primary Years 3–6: Annual CHF 2,850 — Autumn CHF 1,140 / Spring CHF 1,140 / Summer CHF 570. - Secondary (Years 11 & 13 listed separately in published table): Annual CHF 3,000 / CHF 2,800 (some year groups have lower exam-period rates); per-term splits shown in the published schedule. No reductions or refunds for absences. - After-school care (ASC): CHF 15 per child, per hour (service runs 15:05–18:15 Monday–Friday; invoiced separately). - Extracurricular activities, private classes and other optional services: charged separately; registration for optional activities is final and non-refundable as per published conditions. - Uniform: School uniform is required and is ordered separately via the school supplier; ordering is managed through the supplier using school code LEA000107TF. Costs for uniform items are additional to fees and are billed by the uniform supplier. - Learning support, EAL beyond standard provision, private music lessons and any specialist services: charged in addition where required. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable; the school is a day school. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is calculated annually and may be paid either annually (with a 2% discount) or in three termly instalments. Autumn term = 40% / Spring term = 40% / Summer term = 20%. - Payment dates (standard): - Annual payment / Autumn term (first instalment): due 30 June. - Spring term (second instalment): due 15 November. - Summer term (third instalment): due 28 February. - Parents remain responsible for fees even if an employer or third party pays; the school will hold parents responsible in case of dispute between employer and parent. Late payment attracts default interest (annual) of 5%. If fees are not settled, access to activities, examinations, reports and diplomas may be withheld until obligations are met. - Payments are processed by bank transfer; acceptance/confirmation communications contain the school's bank details for payment (registration and invoice payments). The school does not accept payments from sanctioned or prohibited parties. Refunds are made by bank transfer to the payer named on the original payment documents. Withdrawal and refund information - The registration fee is non-refundable if a family decides not to enrol after payment. All non-tuition fees are payable within 10 days of invoice. Refunds of tuition or mandatory activity fees are not normally considered. Mandatory activity fees are non-refundable except where a medical withdrawal may be claimed through insurance. Refunds, if applicable, are paid by bank transfer to the original payer. - Re-enrolment and withdrawal deadlines and charges prior to the start of a school year: - Withdrawal prior to 30 April: no charge. - Withdrawal between 1 May and 31 May: 1 month tuition cancellation fee. - Withdrawal between 1 June and 30 June: 2 months' tuition cancellation fee. - Withdrawal after 30 June: Autumn term (Term 1) tuition cancellation fee. - During the school year, withdrawal must be communicated at least two calendar months before the first day of the month of commencement of the following term; end-of-term notice requirements are: Autumn term – notice by 31 October; Spring term – notice by 31 January. Failure to meet notice deadlines will result in a one-month tuition cancellation fee. Cancellation fees are calculated pro rata on the annual rate over a 10-month basis. Discounts and special arrangements - Sibling discounts: 5% for the third child and 10% for the fourth child and subsequent children from the same family; discounts apply to the younger siblings' tuition only. Summary of payment practice and practical notes - Tuition, mandatory activity charges and optional services are invoiced in CHF; transport, lunch and after-school care have separate annual or termly charges as listed above. Payments are handled by bank transfer using the bank details provided in the school's acceptance or invoice communications. Annual payment attracts a 2% discount; otherwise fees are due in three termly instalments on the dates published above. Late payment interest of 5% per year is applied to overdue balances and the school may withhold services and documents until accounts are settled. Refunds follow the conditions and notice periods set out above.	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 The school has an official school uniform. Uniforms must be purchased from Trutex, the official uniform supplier. Online ordering is available, with deliveries to home within 3-5 working days or to the school, and non-compliance can result in a student being asked to change.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Fresh meals are cooked on site daily. A vegetarian option is available at every lunch, and meals include a salad bar and fresh fruit; ingredients are sourced locally where possible.	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 The school uses a four-house system: Montreux (Red), Rhône (Blue), Simplon (Green), and Savoie (Yellow). Students are allocated to a House on joining, siblings are placed in the same House, and House points are awarded via Class Dojo to encourage achievement, community, and leadership.	House system La Garenne has a House System. Students join one of four Houses: Bouquetin (Alpine ibex), Buse (buzzard), Cerf (deer), and Lynx (mountain cat). Each House has an equal number of students of all ages and competes in events to earn points. Points are updated weekly and the end‑of‑year prize is a mystery reward; the House system fosters teamwork, cross‑age mentoring, and a sense of belonging.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is part of Nord Anglia Education.	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 Early Years follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for ages 3-5, with specialist language lessons for beginners and native French speakers from Foundation 1. In Primary, IPC is followed with English and Maths guided by the English National Curriculum, and French options range from beginner to bilingual. The IPC covers Geography, History, Science, Art, Technology, PE and Computing, and promotes eight Personal Learning Goals (Adaptable, Communicator, Collaborator, Empathetic, Ethical, Resilient, Respectful, Thinker). Lower Secondary (11-14) prepares students for IGCSE and the IB Diploma Programme, with language study in English, French and German or Spanish, and a strong PSHE and service program. The IGCSE (14-16) is taught alongside a key IB element (Theory of Knowledge) and includes Outdoor Education and PSHE. The IB Diploma Programme (16-18) is offered with six subjects and the DP core (ToK, CAS, EE), with bilingual options and pathways to top universities.	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 LCIS's IB Diploma Programme achieved a 100% pass rate for the 2021–22 cohort, with a highest score of 41 and an average of 35 points (well above the global average of 31.9). Thirty-two percent of students scored 38 points or more, and 18% earned bilingual diplomas. Graduates have gained admission to universities including MIT, McGill University, University of Toronto, Bristol University, Edinburgh University, King's College London, Leiden, and École hôtelière de Lausanne.	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 Recent graduates attend MIT, McGill University, University of Toronto, Bristol University, Edinburgh University, King's College London, Leiden, and École hôtelière de Lausanne.	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 The Exhibitioner Award is offered to encourage students to grow and thrive in interests outside the curriculum. There are 80+ extracurricular clubs offering opportunities to broaden talents.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school provides a holistic pastoral framework as part of its community, emphasising well‑being and personal growth within an international setting.	Social & emotional learning Social and emotional development is integrated into La Garenne's approach. Students grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically as part of their education. Outdoor Forest School activities build confidence and resilience, and the House System and pastoral staff support belonging and personal growth.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The page does not specify SEN services or specialist provisions beyond a general personalised learning approach.	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 The page does not specify EAL programs beyond a general international context.	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 Pastoral care and a supportive school community are highlighted as part of LCIS's approach to student growth and well‑being.	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 The page outlines a safety‑conscious community within a Nord Anglia Education context, but does not list specific safeguarding policies.	Safeguarding La Garenne maintains a safeguarding policy with a child-centred, coordinated approach. All staff understand safeguarding responsibilities; new staff undergo enhanced pre-employment checks; the policy is reviewed annually. Safety and reporting concerns are reinforced through PSHE, E-Safety, and assemblies.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school has a state-of-the-art, purpose-built campus including a 250-seat theatre, a gym and film studios, providing all the space and facilities your child needs to discover their talents and passions.	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 Sports and PE are part of the curriculum, with students playing on our spacious field and representing LCIS in their favourite sport.	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 Dynamic learning spaces support a range of subjects and inspiring curricula with world-class teachers. In Primary, the IPC and UK National Curriculum guide learning, with tailored French options for bilingual provision. In Secondary, students can pursue IGCSE or the bilingual IB Diploma, developing proficiency in two or more languages. Design and Technology is enriched by MIT collaboration.	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 There are 80+ extracurricular clubs offering opportunities in art, sport, music, drama, computer science, robotics, French, German, and STEAM, with after-school clubs available for students to deepen interests.	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 Founded in 2008, La Côte International School Aubonne was acquired by Nord Anglia Education in September 2011. In September 2014, Nord Anglia relocated the school to a new state-of-the-art campus in Aubonne, Switzerland, with a total capacity of 840 places and facilities including 44 classrooms and 12 specialist rooms designed for science, computing, art and music. The school serves children aged 2-18 and is part of the Nord Anglia Education family, providing Global Campus connections and collaborations with UNICEF, Juilliard and MIT. The class of 2021 achieved the school's best IB diploma results to date, with an average IB score of 36.	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 LCIS is a vibrant, connected community housed on a state-of-the-art, purpose-built campus that includes a 250-seat theatre, a gym and film studios. As part of the Nord Anglia Education family, LCIS connects students worldwide via Global Campus and collaborates with UNICEF, Juilliard and MIT to enrich learning. Language teaching is a core feature: Primary offers a bilingual English-French programme with German as an option, while Secondary provides French and German with additional languages such as Spanish from Year 7 and other languages via third‑party arrangements; Maths, English, Music, Sport, Drama and PSHE are taught in English across the school. The school also fosters a lively community through events and partnerships that enhance student experiences.	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 made up of volunteers and is open to all parents and staff, providing connection and support through a diverse calendar of events such as Ice Cream Social for new families, Welcome Coffees, Personal/Professional Development Workshops, Trunk or Treat, Winter Fair and International Day Food Festival, plus Second Hand Uniform Sales and ongoing weekly groups. Weekly activities include French Conversation (Mondays 08:30), Lake Swimming (Fridays 08:30), Business Monday (on social platforms), and Adult groups such as Music (Thursdays 18:00), Badminton (Tuesdays 19:30) and Basketball (Thursdays 20:30). Co-Chairs are Monica Contreras and Jessie Rausch; Secretary Katrina Dunnett; Treasurer Paulina Haces; Events Coordinator Chrysline Kirassian; Welcome Club leaders Sally Van Heerden, Lisa Hooper and Reemtu Kharode; Class Representative Lead Sandrine Durand; Staff Appreciation lead Philia Hiotis; Second Hand Uniform Sales coordinators Anna De Wit and Adriana Lima. For inquiries: lacote_pta@yahoo.com.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The MIT-Nord Anglia STEAM programme helps students develop creativity and problem-solving through interdisciplinary challenges. The Juilliard School collaboration enriches performing arts, including dance, drama and music. UNICEF collaboration challenges students to make a difference locally and globally by tackling the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Teachers benefit from professional development provided by MIT and Nord Anglia, staying at the forefront of STEAM education.	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 Juilliard School collaboration enriches our performing arts program, including dance, drama and music. We offer private instrumental lessons across many instruments, plus Creative Dance, French Drama Club, Choir, and School Musical. The Two Dragons Magic School partnership brings magic-trick experiences, and Makey Makey and Big Builders support hands-on technology and engineering activities.	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 French Drama Club introduces students to texts, trades and places of the French theatre. Model United Nations is part of LCIS's extracurricular activities, giving opportunities to engage with international issues. LCIS participates in Nord Anglia Education collaborations, broadening cultural and linguistic exposure for students.	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 Sports and wellbeing activities are broad, including football, basketball, rugby, netball, athletics, chess, frisbee, yoga and mindfulness. The programme also offers private music lessons, dance, French drama, choir and school musical experiences. Creative clubs include Makey Makey, Magic Club (Two Dragons Magic School) and Big Builders, and there are Outdoor Education expeditions available.	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 LCIS runs a Social Impact Programme with UNICEF, challenging students to think about making a difference and to tackle UN Sustainable Development Goals. Students plan and manage student-led service projects that connect with their local community and the wider world. Years 10–12 can apply to attend the Global Summit in New York to engage with global issues and, potentially, speak at the UN High Level Political Forum.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Students can work toward the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award by hiking in the Jura Mountains and the Swiss Alps. The Global Summit in New York offers opportunities for senior students to participate in global discourse, including potential speaking engagements at the UN High Level Political Forum. IMG Academy's sports and wellbeing programme helps students build leadership, confidence and resilience through elite coaching and personal development.	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 A wide range of sports and wellbeing activities includes football, basketball, rugby, netball, athletics, gymnastics, chess, yoga and mindfulness. Private music, dance and drama programmes, along with pastoral care, support mental and physical health, wellbeing and resilience through Nord Anglia's Global Campus resources. Local and national expeditions, outdoor education and wellbeing initiatives help students develop physical and mental endurance and a balanced lifestyle.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Forest School outdoor learning is integral from the early years, with regular outdoor lessons in the Alpine environment. The programme uses outdoor experiences year-round to build confidence, resilience and a connection with nature. Expeditions include mountain hikes, rafting, cave exploration, and visits to mines, many of which are curriculum-linked. The Ski Academy and other alpine activities provide opportunities for physical activity and wellness.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English, French and German are the core languages taught, with English and French forming an integrated bilingual programme in Primary and continued French and German instruction in Secondary. In Primary, German is offered as an extracurricular in Years 1-3 and becomes part of the regular timetable from Year 5 (two hours per week in Year 5, increasing to three hours in Year 6). Spanish is an additional language option from Year 7. Mandarin, Italian and Arabic are available on a one-to-one basis through third-party arrangements; Maths, English, music, sport, drama and PSHE are taught in English for all students.	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 The school offers an integrated bilingual English-French programme in Primary. German is available as part of the curriculum, starting as an extracurricular in Years 1-3 and moving to the regular timetable from Year 5. In Secondary, French continues to support bilingualism with the option to pursue a bilingual IB Diploma; German remains in Secondary, and Spanish is available from Year 7. Mandarin, Italian and Arabic are offered on a one-to-one basis through third-party arrangements.	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 —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations IB Diploma — The school offers a bilingual French-English IB diploma.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions LCIS accepts applicants all year round; it is academically ambitious and non-selective, offering places to students in Switzerland and those living abroad. Some children may need English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, which LCIS provides at the appropriate level. A place is offered after the application and prior school reports are reviewed, and enrolment depends on year-group availability. The process begins with an enquiry or a school tour (in Switzerland or via a virtual discovery meeting). Applicants submit an online application; the Admissions team reviews documents and responds within 24 hours (excluding weekends). If LCIS determines a good match and space exists, a placement offer is made. You can book a visit or join a virtual discovery meeting to learn more. There is a Virtual Open Day on 26 March 2026, 12:30–13:15 via Teams.	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 —	Waitlist —
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