Primary | Ages 6-11

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 School 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."

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 have a dedicated student support services team to help our youngest learners thrive.

Our curriculum is packed with exciting opportunities to learn, including Mathematics, Social Studies, Drama, Languages, Music, Visual Arts, Science, Personal and Social Education, and Physical Education. Students work with their homeroom teachers for core subjects and specialized teachers for Languages, the Arts, Technology, Physical Education, and the Library. Here are some of our special programmes that are 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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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 Group Tour on Friday, May 3!

Join us for a special group tour of the Primary Years Programme (PYP) on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 9:45 am to view our Kindergarten to Grade 5 classes.

Get an inside look at the classrooms, witness the students in action, meet our dedicated teachers, and take a stroll around our modern campus. Our Principal, Richard Dowse, will be leading the tour and happy to answer any questions you have specific to your family.

Pre-registration is appreciated and children are welcome to attend. We can't wait to welcome you!

Register Online

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!

Inquire Now Online

In This Section

Primary | Ages 6-11

Giving children the best start in life

Primary School in Depth

Curriculum

Ski and Skate Fridays

Outdoor Camps

Language Learning

For more information

School Day

Classrooms and Facilities

Tour the Grade 3 Classroom

Teachers

Join Our Group Tour on Friday, May 3!

Getting Started at ISBerne

News and Stories

You're Invited!