Tandem IMS (International Multilingual School)

The school employs a translanguaging pedagogy, where native German and English-speaking teachers work together in the same classroom to allow languages to flow naturally. It utilizes an enquiry-based learning approach, based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme, which encourages children to ask questions, conduct research, and develop critical thinking skills. The school fosters a growth mindset and values such as tolerance, team spirit, kindness, and respect.

The curriculum integrates the Zurich Lehrplan 21 and the UK National Curriculum, with added elements of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. The school offers a bilingual curriculum (German and English) starting at six months, expanding to a multilingual curriculum (German, English, and French) from age four. Academic stages include Nursery, Pre-School, Kindergarten, Primary School (grades 1-6), and a Gymnasium pathway (Progymnasium, Kurzgymnasium, and 10th-grade preparation).

The school reports a 100% Gymnasium pass rate and a 100% DELF Prim pass rate. Pupils are prepared for the Swiss Matura at the school's own Gymnasium or for other upper-level Swiss and international schools, with 50% of primary graduates continuing to Gymnasium. Graduates are noted for their academic strength in English, German, and French, as well as their independence, confidence, and organizational skills.

Teachers are dedicated to recognizing the individual strengths and needs of each child, providing personalized support to help them grow. The school maintains a nurturing environment where staff take the time to understand the best ways to help each pupil learn and develop.

Prospective families are invited to submit an enquiry via the school's online form to begin the admissions process. The school provides full-day educational programmes and care, with staff available to explain the Swiss education system and guide families through the appropriate educational path for their child.

The school year is structured around several holiday periods, including Autumn, Christmas, Spring, and Summer breaks. While the school is completely closed during the two-week Christmas holiday and two weeks of the summer break, holiday care or camps are generally available during other holiday periods, depending on the age group. The academic year also includes 4-5 staff training days and public holidays.

The school operates across four campuses located in Zurich, Zollikon, Küsnacht, and Erlenbach, which are connected by a school bus service. Facilities include bright, child-friendly classrooms, dedicated movement rooms for motor skills development, and spacious outdoor areas for play and exploration. The campuses feature flexible learning zones, such as 'Free Choice Centres' where children can engage in art, music, building, and science activities.

Tandem IMS offers a variety of after-school clubs and holiday camps to complement the core curriculum. These programmes are designed to provide additional enrichment and care for pupils outside of standard school hours.