Kindergarten: Ages 5-6

We Challenge and Prepare

At the International School of Berne (ISBerne), our unique Kindergarten programme offers two distinct pathways within one classroom:

• International Baccalaureate® (IB) Pathway
  Our International Baccalaureate® (IB) Pathway follows the Primary Years Programme (PYP). This globally respected educational framework encourages inquiry, creativity, and critical thinking. Students develop essential skills such as communication, collaboration, and self-management. English is the language of instruction for our IB PYP. This International Pathway is ideal for families seeking an internationally transferable education.
   
• Lehrplan 21 Pathway
  The Lehrplan 21 Pathway at ISBerne delivers the Swiss national curriculum, enhanced by the inquiry-based approach of the International Baccalaureate® (IB). Lehrplan 21 students benefit from Music, Physical Education and Visual Arts in English, as well as the introduction of French from Kindergarten.

For the 2026–27 school year, ISBerne will introduce a separate Grade 1 Lehrplan 21 class. This provides continuity of learning for the Kindergarten students who have followed Lehrplan 21 in the 2025-26 school year. Each school year, the Lehrplan 21 programme will grow by one grade level at a time, reaching Grade 9 by the 2034–35 school year. This means that students who join the Lehrplan 21 Pathway at ISBerne will be able to complete their entire compulsory education at ISBerne. This will ensure continuity, quality, and stability throughout their educational journey.

International families may select either the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Pathway or the Lehrplan 21 Pathway. Students in the Lehrplan 21 Pathway will be able to transfer to a local school with ease, since the Lehrplan 21 programme will be delivered with fidelity.

Our Primary School Principal and admissions team are happy to help you to select the pathway that best suits your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Please inquire online now or contact us by emailing office@isberne.ch or by calling +41 31 959 10 00.

The length of the school day for Kindergarten students facilitates deep learning and strong relationship building. With our caring approach, small class sizes, and a low student-to-teacher ratio, students receive personal attention every day. Their teachers develop stimulating learning experiences to encourage each student to grow in confidence, independence, and curiosity.

Lunch and Meals

During the school day, students stay on campus and enjoy lunch together. Families may choose to pack a lunch from home or register for our convenient meal plan provided by the school cafeteria. Unlike many local Kindergartens, ISBerne students do not need to leave campus or walk to another facility—their entire day takes place in a safe, supervised, and welcoming environment.
 

After School Activities and Care

Beyond the classroom, students can enrich their day through our After School Activities (ASA) programme, choosing from a variety of creative, athletic, and academic opportunities.

For families who need extended care, our After School Care programme offers a safe and nurturing space until 18:00, giving parents peace of mind knowing their children are well cared for and engaged after the school day ends.

• Modern classrooms with natural light and safe playground access
• Secure outdoor play areas for fun, active learning, and exploration
• Indoor gym and performance space
• Extensive library
• On-site cafeteria with nutritious lunch options
• Private parking and easy access to public transit

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A Caring, Connected Community

At ISBerne, we believe education is most meaningful when built upon strong relationships—between teachers, students, and families. We view parents as valued partners in their child’s learning. We engage families through open communication and multiple opportunities to connect with the life of the school.

We enjoy a strong, inclusive community where older and younger students connect naturally and share in the life of the school.

Kindergarten students often work with older peers who visit their classroom to read, assist with activities, or join in special projects. This benefits all students and strengthens our schoolwide culture of care, collaboration, and belonging.

Learn more about our students
Learn more about our parents

Contact Us With Your Questions

Choosing the right school often brings many questions — and we are here to help. The information below answers some of the most common inquiries from families exploring ISBerne.

If you have any additional questions, please contact us by completing an online inquiry form, emailing office@isberne.ch, or calling +41 31 959 10 00.

Contact Us with Your Questions

About the Kindergarten Programme 

How is Kindergarten at ISBerne different from Kindergarten in the public school system in Bern?
Kindergarten at ISBerne offers a unique alternative to the local school system. ISBerne provides:

• A dual language learning environment in Kindergarten, with daily learning experiences in both English and German
• An extended school day (8:30–15:30, with optional After School Care until 18:00).
• A close-knit, international community of around 300 students aged 3–18.
• A holistic approach through the International Baccalaureate® (IB), promoting inquiry, creativity, and cultural awareness.
• Small class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for personalised support.

How many years is Kindergarten at ISBerne?
ISBerne offers a one-year Kindergarten programme for children aged 5 to 6. This corresponds to Kindergarten 2 in the local system. We recommend that families enrol their children in our Early Learning Centre at age 4 (Early Learning 2), which corresponds to Kindergarten 1 in the local system, to best prepare for Primary School. Enrolling in both years meets the local requirements for Kindergarten and the Basisstufe in the Canton of Berne.

Language of instruction

What is the school language at ISBerne?
ISBerne offers the International Baccalaureate® (IB) programmes in English, from Early Learning Centre 1 to Grade 12, in the International Pathway and Lehrplan 21 in German from August 2025, starting in Kindergarten. In the Early Learning Centre, we offer a dual language learning environment in English and German, providing children with early exposure to both languages in a natural and supportive setting.

My child doesn’t speak English or German. How will they manage in Kindergarten at ISBerne?
Our Kindergarten is designed for children from diverse language backgrounds. Through play-based learning, visual cues, and nurturing guidance, children are able to communicate in English and German at their own pace. Additional support, such as English as an Additional Language (EAL), is allocated when needed to ensure every child feels secure, included, and confident as they learn.

School Hours

What are the school hours for Kindergarten?
Kindergarten runs from 08:30 to 15:30 each day, except Wednesdays, when classes end at 14:20. Optional after school care is available until 18:00.

Does ISBerne offer after school activities or care?
Yes. We offer a variety of after school activities included in the school fees, as well as extended after school care available for an additional fee.

What are the lunch arrangements?
We offer a daily hot lunch service in our cafeteria for an additional cost. Families are also welcome to provide a packed lunch from home. 

Enrolment and Local Education Requirements

What are the educational requirements for young children in the Canton of Berne?
In the Canton of Berne, compulsory education begins at age four. Children must attend Kindergarten for two years, starting in August if they turn four on or before 31 July of that year. This stage is referred to as the Basisstufe or basic level of Primary School. Your child can fulfil this requirement by attending the Early Learning Centre (Kindergarten 1 in the local system) and Kindergarten (Kindergarten 2 in the local system) at ISBerne.

Can my child join Kindergarten mid-year?
Yes! ISBerne offers rolling admissions, allowing children to join throughout the school year, subject to availability. This is ideal for families relocating or wanting to change schools during the school year.

What are the tuition fees for Kindergarten?
Tuition fees vary by grade level and are published annually. Kindergarten fees include classroom instruction, specialist lessons, Ski and Skate Fridays, and after school activities offered by school staff. After school care and lunches are available at an additional cost. Visit our Tuition and Fees page.

Community and Wellbeing

How will ISBerne ensure that my child feels settled and supported?
Each student is warmly welcomed to our school each morning. Our small class sizes and dedicated teaching team ensure that every child receives personalised attention. We also provide support services including English as an Additional Language (EAL), social and emotional counselling, and learning support, if required.

How do you communicate with families about a child’s progress?
At ISBerne, we prioritise open communication between home and school. Teachers regularly share updates on students’ learning journeys through various channels, including digital platforms, school reports, and scheduled parent-teacher conferences. These interactions provide insights into students’ development, achievements, and areas for growth. Additionally, events like our 'Celebrations of Learning' invite families into the classroom to observe and celebrate student achievements.