High | Ages 14-18

The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) is the curriculum framework we use in Grades 9 - 10. It prepares students for future education irrespective of which pathway may be chosen after Grade 10. The Middle Years Programme provides students with a holistic learning experience through a balanced curriculum and academic challenge. It fosters student autonomy, voice, and choice while developing conceptual understandings and the connection between learning in the classroom and the real world through authentic contexts for learning.

The curriculum encourages students to be curious and empowers them to be critical, creative, and reflective thinkers who are empathetic, caring, and open-minded, ready to take on the global challenges of tomorrow. We want our students to have a positive attitude towards learning and have strong communication skills.

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At the International School of Berne, we offer a special Bridging Year for students who have completed obligatory schooling in the Swiss educational system. Attending Grade 10 at ISBerne will give students a broad education offered in English. They can in essence do a “year abroad in English” without leaving Switzerland!

Upon successful completion of the Bridging Year, students are eligible to transition into one of ISBerne's Diploma Programmes, which give direct access to universities around the world, or they may continue their path into the Swiss tertiary education system. 

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The International Baccalaureate or US High School: which diploma suits your child best?

These highly-regarded programmes can only be found at the International School of Berne (ISBerne) in this region. At our school, your family can select the most suitable high school curriculum for your child's talents, strengths, and plans for university. Students use these years to explore their interests and plan pathways to life after graduation. Learn more about our pathways of study:

International Baccalaureate Bilingual Diploma Programme

A variation of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), our Bilingual Diploma is available to acknowledge and celebrate your child's proficiency in both English and German (or another language).  The Bilingual IB Diploma maintains the rigorous academic standards of the IBDP, ensuring a broad and balanced education across various subject areas. This programme provides a comprehensive and challenging educational experience that not only sharpens academic abilities but also nurtures essential values and skills necessary for a meaningful and purposeful life.

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ISBerne U.S. High School Diploma Programme

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High School students start school at 8:30 and end at 15:30, and their schedule runs over a ten-day cycle. After dismissal, they are heavily involved in our after school activities and athletics programme.

Students in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme meet for each Standard Level class six-times over the ten-day cycle and seven-times for Higher Level classes.  Higher Level classes have an additional period from 15:30 - 16:30 once every cycle.

• Inviting classrooms with access to additional technology resources
• Well resourced library and media centre
• State-of-the-art theatre and aula
• Large indoor gym
• Outdoor recreation areas
• Fresh, healthy lunch service
• Personal storage lockers
• Easy access to one of the world’s best public transit systems

Watch a tour of our campus

ISBerne has highly-qualified and internationally experienced educators dedicated to the High School:

• Our teachers have a wealth of teaching experience, at minimum they hold a university degree in Education and receive on-going professional development.
• Art, Music and Physical Education are taught by specialist teachers in learning environments dedicated to their subject.
• Counsellors and Learning Support Specialists are available to provide support should there be a requirement.
• A dedicated, full-time Principal oversees the programme.

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This collection of PDF documents will give you an overview of our school and our diploma options. To learn more specific to your child, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our High School team.

On this webpage, you will find the answers to some of the most common questions families have about the High School Division at the International School of Berne. The Admissions Frequently Asked Questions page shows the most common inquires schoolwide.  If you have any other questions or want to discuss any aspect of the process, please contact us or schedule a consultation. 

View the High School FAQs