Primary: Grades 1-5

Giving children the best start in life

Since 1961, the Primary School at the International School of Berne (ISBerne) has been a thriving learning community where children and their families experience a sense of belonging through the joy of working, playing, and learning together.

As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, our philosophies and curriculum are developed within the IB’s Primary Years Programme (PYP) framework. From Kindergarten to Grade 5, we view each child as the chief architect of their own learning, with teachers and assistants acting as facilitators. We consider every child to be a competent researcher and our teachers support their curiosity about the world around them. Students are challenged to be inquirers who ask questions, propose hypotheses, and conduct investigations and research to find answers.

Our programme is enriched by visits to our Gym and Library, playtime in their private playground, and attendance at and active participation in whole school activities and school productions. Our Primary School is a place where your child will thrive, learn, and grow. Join us and together we can give your child the best start in life!

Primary in depth

Curriculum

At the International School of Berne, we're not just committed to the International Baccalaureate® Primary Years Programme (PYP) curriculum, we're passionate about it! We believe that teaching should be a well-balanced, concept-based approach that centers around our students. After all, our mission is to "Welcome and connect. Nurture and inspire. Challenge and prepare."

As your child grows, they begin to build on concepts and make connections among subjects. They may learn the science of what our oceans need to be healthy and begin to study the history of pollution — all in an effort to understand what it means to be better global citizens.

This way of learning, where your child studies one broad theme through many academic subjects, is part of the International Baccalaureate® programme at ISBerne.

We explore six themes in the Primary Years:	Your child connects ideas and skills from:
Who we are	Language (choice of German or French)
Where we are in place and time	Social Studies
How we express ourselves	Mathematics
How the world works	Arts
How we organize ourselves	Science
Sharing the planet	Personal, Social, and Physical Education

We know that every child is unique, so we offer a variety of pathways for students to explore and express themselves. We understand that learning doesn't just happen in the classroom and that academic development is interconnected with social and emotional growth. That's why we offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and student support services to help our youngest learners thrive.

Special Programmes Unique to ISBerne

Ski and Skate Fridays

During the Winter season, the Primary School takes part in our Ski and Skate Friday programme. Early Learning to Grade 1 students skate at a local ice rink, while students in Grades 2 – 5 go skiing or snowboarding. All students are taught by professional instructors at the world-famous Zweisimmen resort.

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Outdoor Camps

At the beginning of each academic year, students in Grades 3 – 5 participate in an Outdoor Education trip to learn more about their classmates, Switzerland, and themselves over a week-long educational bonding experience.

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Language Learning

ISBerne believes learning additional languages enhances cognitive development as well as promotes an international mindset. Therefore, ISBerne requires Primary School students to choose either German or French as an additional language of study. English support by specialist teachers is also offered to students new to English.

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We provide our students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in Middle School, whether they choose to stay with us, return to their home country, or study abroad. At the International School of Berne, we're committed to providing a solid foundation for our students to build upon, and we can't wait to see what your child could achieve!

For more information

To learn more in-depth about the Primary Years programme at ISBerne, we invite you to visit our "About the IB Primary Years" webpage.

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Comparing ISBerne and Local Public Schools

At ISBerne, our International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) offers an international education that nurtures and develops young learners as caring, active participants in a lifelong journey of learning. We emphasize a holistic, inquiry-based, and transdisciplinary approach, focusing on the whole child.

In contrast, local public primary schools in Bern, Switzerland follow the Lehrplan 21 curriculum, taught in German. Lehrplan 21 is a standardized educational framework implemented across the German-speaking cantons of Switzerland. It focuses on developing specific competencies within traditional subject areas, emphasizing consistency and standardization in education.

These are the key differences between ISBerne's curriculum and Lehrplan 21:

Language of Instruction:

ISBerne IB PYP: Taught in English, providing an international learning environment.
Lehrplan 21: Taught exclusively in German, reflecting the local language of the region.

Educational Approach:

ISBerne IB PYP: Utilizes an inquiry-based, transdisciplinary approach that focuses on the whole child, encouraging exploration and critical thinking across various subjects.
Lehrplan 21: Employs a subject-centered, competency-based approach, concentrating on specific skills within traditional subject boundaries.

Curriculum Content:

ISBerne IB PYP: Features an international focus with global themes, promoting global awareness and intercultural understanding.
Lehrplan 21: Centers on local and national content relevant to Swiss culture and society.

Assessment Methods:

ISBerne IB PYP: Emphasizes formative assessments and student reflection, allowing learners to actively engage with and understand their learning journey.
Lehrplan 21: Utilizes more standardized testing and traditional grading to assess competency attainment.

Flexibility and Transferability:

ISBerne IB PYP: Offers greater curricular flexibility and is internationally recognized, facilitating smoother transitions for students relocating globally.
Lehrplan 21: Is standardized for consistency within the region, which may present challenges for international mobility.

The choice between the IB PYP at ISBerne and the Lehrplan 21 in local Bern schools depends on your family's educational preferences and priorities. We invite you to schedule a personal consultation with our Principal to explore how our programme could make a meaningful difference in your child's educational journey.

School Day

There's a full day of learning at the International School of Berne! Our classes run from Monday to Friday, starting at 8:30 and finishing at 15:30, except on Wednesdays when we finish at 14:30. But don't worry, learning doesn't stop there! Our students have the option to join our After School Activities (ASA) programme. This is a chance to try new things and participate in activities that aren't offered within the framework of our curriculum. We have something for everyone - from Band and Drama to Cub Scouts, Crafts, Lego Robotics, Dance, and so much more.

We understand that sometimes the workday for parents doesn't always align with school hours. That's why we offer the ISBerne After School Care programme, providing a safe and nurturing environment for your child from dismissal time until 18:00. So, whether your child is participating in our ASA programme or joining our After School Care, you can have peace of mind knowing that they are in good hands.

Classrooms and Facilities

At the International School of Berne, our classrooms and outdoor areas are designed to inspire and nurture young minds. We believe that the learning environment is crucial to a child's success, and we strive to create a space where each child feels comfortable and motivated to learn. Our classrooms are vibrant, welcoming, and filled with educational resources that spark curiosity and creativity. We want our students to feel a sense of pride in their cultural identity and to see themselves represented in their classrooms.

Our outdoor areas are just as important, providing a space for children to explore, play, and learn in nature. We believe that outdoor learning experiences are just as valuable as indoor ones, and we encourage our students to take their learning outside whenever possible.

Our Primary School offers the following amenities:

Modern, speciality built facilities
Large outdoor play area
Inviting classrooms with access to additional technology resources
Well resourced library
State-of-the-art theatre and aula
Large indoor gym
Fresh, healthy lunch service

Watch a tour of our campus

Tour the Grade 3 Classroom

Teachers

We take pride in our exceptional team of international educators! At the International School of Berne, our teachers are not only highly qualified but also specialize in the particular needs of young children. We understand that each child has unique needs, and that's why we maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring that every student receives the personal attention they need to thrive.

Our teachers are experts in primary education, and their expertise is well-respected by their peers from around the world. That's why our school regularly hosts workshops, conferences, and events for educators to share their knowledge and learn from one another.

We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and that's why our teachers are committed to ongoing professional growth. They stay up-to-date with current research and best practices in education to provide our students with the best possible learning experience. Their passion for teaching will ensure that your child will receive an outstanding education.

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Join our upcoming information events

We strongly encourage you to visit our school in person and experience what makes ISBerne such a special place to learn. You may either register for a private consulation or join an upcoming group event:

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13 Feb 2025

Schoolwide Open Day

We invite local and international families to experience firsthand the world-class International Baccalaureate (IB) education we offer students from ages 3 to 18 across our Early Learning Centre, Primary Years, Middle Years, Grade 10 Bridging Year, and Diploma Pathways. Parents, students, and community members are warmly welcome to attend our Open Day.

What to Expect:

Guided Campus Tour: In small groups, tour our purpose-built campus, visit our classrooms, observe IB lessons in action, and experience our vibrant learning environment firsthand.
Interactive Q&A: Ask questions along the way to learn more about our IB programs.
Meet Our Team: Speak individually with our Principals and Admissions team about your child's needs and aspirations.

Please note that the event will be conducted in English, and our German and French speaking staff will be available to assist.

Pre-registration is appreciated. Secure your spot and come see the difference ISBerne can make for your child!

Learn More and Register

3 Apr 2025

Schoolwide Open Day

What to Expect:

Guided Campus Tour: In small groups, tour our purpose-built campus, visit our classrooms, observe IB lessons in action, and experience our vibrant learning environment firsthand.
Interactive Q&A: Ask questions along the way to learn more about our IB programs.
Meet Our Team: Speak individually with our Principals and Admissions team about your child's needs and aspirations.

Please note that the event will be conducted in English, and our German and French speaking staff will be available to assist.

Pre-registration is appreciated. Secure your spot and come see the difference ISBerne can make for your child!

Learn More

Getting Started at ISBerne

Are you considering the International School of Berne for your child? We're thrilled to hear that! We want to make sure you have all the information you need to make the best decision for your family.

To start exploring the admissions process, please visit the admissions section of the site. You'll find everything you need to know about scheduling a personal visit or trial day, making an online inquiry, and more. Remember, your child may join ISBerne anytime during the school year if space is available.

If you have any questions or would like to speak to someone directly, please contact us. You can email us at office@isberne.ch or call us at +41 31 959 10 00. We can't wait to hear from you and show you why ISBerne is the perfect place for your child to thrive!

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