International School Altdorf

The school is committed to fostering critical thinking, global citizenship, and a lifelong love of learning. Its educational approach is built on values of innovation, respect, accountability, multilingual communication, and self-reflection. By maintaining small class sizes, the school aims to provide a challenging, inclusive environment that supports the development of each student's individual abilities.

The school offers a range of international curricula, including the Cambridge IGCSE for students aged 14 to 16 and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for students aged 16 to 19. It also provides a Career Academic Programme in collaboration with the Bella Vista Institute of Higher Education Switzerland and serves as a candidate school for the IB Middle Years Programme. Additionally, the school functions as an in-house test center for TOEFL and IELTS examinations.

Academic support is integrated into the school experience, with teachers providing one-on-one attention and tutoring after school hours. Every student is assigned a teacher mentor to assist with personal development and academic progress. The school also provides dedicated university counseling to guide students through the application process for higher education.

The admissions process evaluates candidates based on past school performance, current assessments, and personal interviews. Prospective families are encouraged to arrange campus visits or online meetings, with the option for students to participate in a two-day trial stay subject to availability. Early registration is recommended at least six months prior to the start of the school year to facilitate visa processing and secure placement. Partial, merit-based scholarships are available for students who demonstrate academic or non-academic talents.

The academic year typically begins in late August, following an induction period for new students. The calendar includes a first semester ending in December and a second semester concluding in late June, with scheduled breaks for autumn, Christmas, spring, and Easter. Formal reports containing cumulative grades and teacher feedback are provided to parents at the end of each semester.

The campus is located in a pastoral setting near Lake Lucerne and features modern classrooms and study spaces, including a library equipped with research resources. Athletic facilities include a soccer field, basketball court, tennis court, beach volleyball court, and an outdoor swimming pool. Additionally, students have access to a partner fitness club with state-of-the-art exercise equipment.

Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of activities to foster physical well-being and personal growth. Offerings include an on-campus animal shelter where students care for ponies, rabbits, chickens, and goats, as well as clubs such as art and cooking. Outdoor pursuits are central to the experience, with opportunities for hiking, rowing, mountain biking, skiing, and skating in the surrounding Swiss Alps.