Primary school
Laying a solid foundation for a happy and successful schooling
Primary education for early learners starting at age 5
The main objective of primary education is to build a solid academic foundation and teach methods for lifelong learning. In a peaceful and healthy environment, our students are happy to go to school. They are passionate about their studies, becoming autonomous and responsible.
International students integrate our programme through our French immersion course. They have a wonderful opportunity to learn French as a new language and to easily transition into the Swiss education system.
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A peaceful, personalised environment
At Chantemerle, everything is organised to simplify the learning process and build confidence. Our small class sizes allow for personalised attention in a rigorous yet caring environment. We believe in balance, and regular breaks are scheduled where students can play outdoors before getting back to work.
A systematic and traditional approach
We use an active learning approach that respects the learning speed of each child. Students go over a lesson during several weeks: they discover the topic through a hands-on approach, then practise and memorise the lesson through oral and written exercises and the use of textbooks.
Official programme
Complementary to the Swiss public system, our programme is taught in French and emphasises core subjects, e.g. French, mathematics, English and German. Chantemerle facilitates the transition to public school at the end of primary school (8th) or at the end of middle school (11th).
Learning in autonomy
At Chantemerle, we teach all our students to learn effectively and independently. During accompanied homework periods, students are supervised by teachers as they complete their homework.
Motivation and the pleasure of learning
There is a great sense of calm in the classrooms at Chantemerle. Both children and teachers feel at ease. In a positive atmosphere, students acquire a work methodology and practical skills. They organise their knowledge and develop independence. From this stems motivation and a desire to learn.
Day school: a timetable that facilitates family life
Chantemerle offers full, continuous care from 07h30 to 18h30 that includes class, meals and homework. Extracurricular activities (arts, sport and nature, cultural excursions) are included in the school curriculum. Shuttle transport is available.
Nature and discovery
Chantemerle’s Nature and Discovery project offers children the chance to spend two afternoons a month in the forest, all year round and in all weathers, as the seasons change.
Accompanied by a team of professionals, nature becomes a landmark and starting point for sensory and creative exploration and discovery. In this project, children discover the secrets of nature, the elements and the seasons. They create a bond with nature, and learn to respect and appreciate it.
Education through and with nature enables them to acquire and develop skills and competencies such as autonomy, simplicity and self-confidence.
Extracurricular activities
Through sports, visual arts and performing arts, our students have the opportunity to explore new interests, develop social skills and engage in enriching activities outside the school setting:
Sports: archery, swimming, jiu-jitsu, running, tennis, football, basketball, volleyball, winter sports
Performing arts: piano or cello, singing, dancing, drama, circus skills, arts and crafts
Nature: hiking, fruit picking, outdoor adventure and forest walking
Cultural visits and excursions
Weekly schedule
At the primary level, Chantemerle offers a well-balanced weekly schedule that blends academic learning, creativity, outdoor activities, and personal development. Mornings are dedicated to core subjects such as mathematics, French, English, science, and humanities, taught in small groups to ensure personalised attention.
After a healthy lunch, students engage in thematic projects, nature studies, and hands-on workshops as part of our École de la Vie programme, where they learn practical skills and values for everyday life.
Afternoons include physical education, creative arts, music, and additional language learning. Each day also includes quiet time for personal study and homework.
