English Courses, Camps, and Immersion Programmes
A unique opportunity to experience English beyond traditional language classes
Founded in 1961, the International School of Berne (ISBerne) is a fully accredited English-speaking international school in Gümligen near Bern, welcoming both local Swiss and international families.
Our programmes help children and teenagers build confidence in English through real communication, interactive activities, and immersive experiences in an international school environment.
ISBerne offers many programmes for children enrolled in local schools interested in learning English, and we also provide language support for new students to our school who have lower English proficiency.
Children and teenagers wanting to improve their English can benefit from these special programmes at ISBerne:
After School English Classes
Open to children ages 5 - 12 attending local schools in the Bern region
These fun and immersive English classes give children the opportunity to experience a fully English-speaking environment outside of their regular school day.
Through games, stories, activities, and conversation, children naturally develop confidence in English in small groups led by experienced teachers.
The classes are for external students living locally in the Bern region. Students do not need to be enrolled at ISBerne to participate.
English Summer Camps
Immersive day camps for students ages 7 - 18 living in the Bern region
ISBerne’s Summer Camps give children and teenagers the opportunity to develop confidence in English through immersive and engaging experiences during the school holidays.
As part of these English-speaking day camps, participants take part in activities, projects, excursions, and interactive lessons while building new friendships with students from our local community.
The camps are designed for external students living locally in the Bern region. Students do not need to be enrolled at ISBerne to participate.
Grade 10 Bridging Year
For students who have completed compulsory schooling in the Swiss public or private school system
ISBerne’s Grade 10 Bridging Year is designed for students who would benefit from an additional year to strengthen their English, grow in confidence, and prepare for future academic or career pathways.
Students learn in a fully English-speaking international school environment while developing communication skills, independence, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding alongside peers from around the world.
For many local Swiss teenagers, the programme offers a rare opportunity to experience the benefits of studying abroad while remaining close to home and connected to family and friends in Switzerland.
Learn more
Bilingual Diploma Programme
An internationally recognised pathway in English and another language for students ages 16–19
ISBerne’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Bilingual Diploma Programme gives students the opportunity to study in English while earning a diploma that recognises academic proficiency in both English and German (or another language).
As the only school in the Bern region authorised to offer the IB Diploma Programme, ISBerne prepares students for university opportunities in Switzerland and around the world in a warm, supportive learning environment.
The Bilingual Diploma is especially valuable for students who would like to keep strong connections to both their local language and an international English-speaking pathway for future study or careers.
English Language Support
Supporting students from their first day in an English-speaking school environment
Students joining ISBerne with developing English skills receive additional English as an Additional Language (EAL) support from specialist teachers to help them build confidence and successfully access the curriculum in English.
Support is tailored to each student’s level and may include small-group instruction, language development support in the classroom, and guidance on academic English skills.
Our welcoming school community helps students strengthen their English naturally while feeling supported and included in school life from the beginning.
Why families choose ISBerne
Our English programmes offer more than traditional language learning. Children and teenagers benefit from:
- immersive English experiences in an international school environment
- small groups and individual support
- experienced English-speaking teachers
- opportunities to build confidence through real communication
- a welcoming community for both local and international families
For many students, these programmes provide a unique opportunity to experience English naturally and meaningfully — similar to study abroad experience without leaving home.
What our Families Say
ISBerne combines an excellent international education with a caring and connected community. My children were encouraged to grow academically, socially, and personally while developing an international outlook and confidence for the future.Somni, ALUMNI Parent 🇰🇷 🇩🇪
Take the next step
Our Welcome Team is happy to answer your questions, help you choose the right programme for your child, or assist you with registration.
Ms Françoise Boillat and Ms Alice Germann are available in English, German, and French by phone or email. Families are also welcome to visit our campus and experience our warm school atmosphere in person.