La Garenne International School

The school’s mission is to guide young people to become independent, resilient, and internationally-minded individuals. Its motto, “Be happy and never, never, never give up,” reflects core values of open-mindedness, responsibility, innovation, empathy, and respect. The school emphasizes a family-oriented environment where students are nurtured, cherished, and encouraged to discover their unique talents.

The school offers a continuum of education starting with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for ages 3–5, followed by a primary programme for ages 5–11 based on the English National Curriculum and the International Primary Curriculum. Secondary students (ages 11–16) follow the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IGCSE. For the final two years (ages 16–18), students choose between the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the High School Diploma (HSD).

Most students secure places at their first-choice universities for undergraduate programmes. The school provides a Higher Education and Futures Programme to guide students through university applications, personal statements, and interview preparation for institutions in Switzerland, the UK, the USA, and elsewhere. Graduates are prepared to be independent, resilient, and internationally-minded individuals.

The school provides personalised learning support, with educational specialists who assess students to create tailor-made programmes based on individual needs. The school has a dedicated Head of Learning Support and a Designated Safeguarding Lead, with staff trained in areas such as autism, ADHD, and trauma-informed practice. Intensive English and French language support is available for students for whom these are not first languages.

The admissions process consists of four steps: contacting the admissions team, completing the application form with required documentation, undergoing an evaluation, and formally accepting the offer to fulfill financial obligations. The school does not offer scholarships. Prospective families are encouraged to contact the school for guidance based on the student's age, intended start date, and pathway.

The school operates throughout the academic year and offers summer and winter camps. Summer camp sessions for students aged 6–16 are available between late June and early August, with options for two-week or four-week stays. Winter camp programmes include 'Super Ski' (ages 8–14), 'Language + Ski' (ages 11–14), and an 'Integration' programme (ages 5–14).

The campus is located in the alpine setting of Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland, and features modern, purpose-built facilities. These include the 'Chalet Millenium' for early years, the 'Le Roc' senior campus with design and fine art studios, a dance and music space, a gym, and a dining hall. The school also maintains boarding houses with en-suite bedrooms, common rooms, and relaxation areas, and is currently constructing a new Sports Hub.

The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including specialized academies for Go-Karting, Golf, Juventus Football, and Skiing. Students participate in expeditions, outdoor education, and school trips, with a focus on fostering participation, confidence, and personal challenge. The programme includes creative workshops, sports, and social activities tailored to different age groups.