International Schools Directory

La Châtaigneraie is located in the Canton of Vaud in a beautiful rural setting overlooking Lake Geneva, about 20 minutes drive from the centre of the city. It is, as part of the Foundation, a member of the International Schools Association and is accredited by the MSA and ECIS. The primary school has educational programmes in English and French with bilingualism emphasised throughout. Classes begin with Class 1 and children transfer to the secondary programme after grade six. The primary school is situated in a purpose-built primary building with a library, music and theatre facilities, activity and recreational areas. Secondary school students are enrolled in the English or French Programmes, with a strong emphasis on the other language. Students have mixed classes in English, French, other languages, physical education and the performing arts. The secondary programme prepares students for three university entrance examinations: the International Baccalaureate, the American College Boards and the Swiss Federal Maturité. IGCSE and the Brevet des Collèges are external examinations for which students prepare in Grades 10 and 11. The faculty are recruited on the basis of their academic qualifications and their interest in international education. The campus is situated in pleasant surroundings and includes a swimming pool and sports fields. The educational equipment and facilities are extensive and up to date, and include computing rooms, libraries, gymnasia and art workshops. A new building complex includes classrooms, science laboratories, a cafeteria, music rooms, a theatre and assembly hall. A counselling and guidance programme supports the students throughout their schooling: health education, peer counselling, study skills, career counselling and guidance in applying to universities and colleges worldwide. The school has a high rate of acceptance by academically demanding universities and colleges. A full programme of sports and extra-curricular activities is a vital part of school life, including clubs, theatre, choir, debates (Student League of Nations), extensive field studies and winter sports days, and involves the students in inter-school competitions (maths, theatre, sports) throughout Europe.