School System in Zurich Explained for Expat Families
Zurich’s public schools are excellent, multilingual and focused on real-world learning. For expat parents, understanding how the system works makes settling in much easier.
This guide explains how schooling and childcare are structured, when children start and what options families have between public and international schools.
Structure of the Swiss School System
Daycare (private only)
From around three months until age four, children attend private daycare if both parents work. These nurseries are usually open long hours, typically from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday. Costs for full-time care are around CHF 2,800–3,100 per month.
Many nurseries are bilingual, offering care in High German and English and some follow Montessori principles that emphasize independence and hands-on learning. Another option are home nurseries through Nidino, where children are cared for in small, family-style environments.
Families also often use nannies, day mothers (Tagesmütter) or local playgroups (Spielgruppen) that introduce children to social play and the German language before kindergarten.
SwissNest tip: Daycare spots can be scarce, so it’s best to register early, even during pregnancy. We help families find bilingual nurseries or home care through trusted partners near their new home.
Kindergarten (free)
From age four, children start kindergarten, which is free and part of the public school system (which is obligatory not optional like daycare). Kindergarten lasts two years and is part-time. Most classes run mornings and two or three afternoons per week and Wednesdays are free.
Before kindergarten, most early education happens in Swiss German through play and songs. In kindergarten, children gradually begin to hear and use High German (Hochdeutsch) for reading, writing and school preparation.
SwissNest tip: In the city of Zurich, some schools are full-day schools (Ganztagsschulen) that include lunch and afternoon activities. In most other areas, lunch and after-school care are separate and paid through the Hort program. There are also private full-day kindergarten options, for example at some Little Star Day School and Globegarden locations.
Primary School (free)
At age six, children enter primary school, which runs for six years. Teaching switches fully to High German with helvetisms, while children continue to hear Swiss German socially and from teachers in informal settings.
Children are expected to walk to school independently, and the city designs routes and crossings for safety. This independence is part of Swiss education culture.
Language lessons begin early:
English is introduced around age seven or eight
French usually starts at age ten or eleven
SwissNest tip: As with kindergarten, parents can request a different kindergarten or school than the one they are assigned to, although approval depends on capacity and local rules. Primary schools are assigned based on your home address. We help families choose housing in the right catchment area to secure access to quality schools.
Secondary School (free)
After six years of primary school, students move to secondary education for three years. Based on performance, they follow academic or vocational paths leading either to high school (Gymnasium) or apprenticeships.
SwissNest tip: The Swiss system values practical skills and early career preparation. We help families understand how these pathways work and what they mean for international education plans.
Language and Integration
All public education is taught in German, but Zurich schools offer strong integration programs for newcomers. Extra language lessons are available for children learning German as a second language.
SwissNest tip: Most children reach conversational fluency in about one year. Parents can also join local language courses to communicate with teachers and integrate faster.
School Holidays
The Zurich school calendar includes about 13 weeks of holidays spread throughout the year:
Autumn holidays: 2 weeks in October
Christmas holidays: 2 weeks in December
Sport and ski holidays: 2 weeks in February
Spring holidays: 2 weeks in April
Summer holidays: about 5 weeks in July and August
SwissNest tip: Families often use holiday camps for childcare during school breaks. We help organize English or bilingual camp options across Zurich.
International School Options
Zurich has a wide range of international schools offering English-language or bilingual curricula, often based on British, American or IB systems. Tuition is typically CHF 25,000–35,000 per year.
International schools are ideal for families who relocate frequently or for children who thrive outside the more structured Swiss school system. They encourage creativity and individual learning approaches while maintaining academic rigor.
SwissNest tip: Admission is competitive, so start early. We guide families through applications, arrange visits and help compare schools.
Registration Process
Once you register your address at the local municipality, you’ll be assigned to a nearby school. To register your child, bring your residence permit, passport or ID, and proof of address.
SwissNest tip: Inform the school early if your child needs German support or special programs. We assist with communication and all registration documents.
Homeschooling in Zurich
Homeschooling is legal in Switzerland but regulated at the cantonal level. In the canton of Zurich, parents must request permission from the local education authorities before teaching their children at home. Approval is only granted if the parent or tutor has a recognized teaching qualification and follows the official curriculum. Inspections and progress reports ensure that the same educational standards are met as in public schools.
SwissNest tip: Homeschooling is uncommon in Zurich but can be a short-term solution for families who travel frequently or relocate mid-year. We guide families through the application process and explain the documentation required if homeschooling becomes necessary.
Final Thoughts
Zurich’s education system is designed to help every child succeed, whether through public, private, or international pathways. It encourages independence, structure and a strong sense of community.
SwissNest helps families understand every stage, from daycare and kindergarten to school selection and registration, so your children can settle into their new life with confidence.
