Teaching in Switzerland
"Within alpine villages and world renowned cities, Switzerland is home to some of the most prestigious international schools."
Country Facts & Figures
Capital city: Bern
Population: 7.8 million
Major languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh
Major religion: Christianity
Currency: Swiss Franc
International dialling code: +41
Country Profile
Switzerland is a landlocked country bordered by France, Germany, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein. The cities of Geneva and Zurich are global economic centres which contribute to the country having one of the highest levels of GDP. Besides banking, it is also famous for its spectacular mountains and it is here that skiing was first used as a recreational sport.
The country has created its own culture with some influence from its neighbours and four different languages are spoken. Switzerland prides itself on being a neutral country so it is no surprise to find that it is home to the Red Cross and UN, which are located in Geneva, the most cosmopolitan of all Swiss cities.
Switzerland is warm from Spring through to Autumn and experiences cold winters making it an ideal place for all years round sports. Outdoor lovers from all corners of the world flock to the Swiss Alps all year round to ski, climb, walk, mountain bike and simply enjoy the incredible scenery.
International Schooling in Switzerland
Some of the oldest and most exclusive international schools can be found in Switzerland. A number of which started life as finishing schools have developed into international schools drawing on students from all parts of the world.
These schools can be found in the major Swiss cities to educate students of parents who have relocated as diplomats, working with banks and multi-nationals as well as in the alpine regions. It is here that they tend to offer boarding facilities and incorporate skiing and other alpine sports as part of their varied curriculum.
Most schools follow the IB curriculum, founded by teachers in Geneva, to serve as a curriculum for mobile students and is usually taught in conjunction with IGCSE. Teachers find that these schools have very small class sizes, high levels of academic attainment and offer good salaries.
Typical Salary & Benefits
- Salaries at lower end around CHF4,400 per month
- Flights paid
- Relocation allowance is usually provided
- Accommodation is rarely paid for unless living within dormitories
- Contracts are generally for 12 months in the first instance with renewals
Supply Teaching in Switzerland
We are currently working with a number of Swiss international schools, mainly in the cantons of Geneva and Vaud who at times require qualified teachers to cover sickness and maternity absences.
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Summer Tutoring in Swiss Alps
Compass works on behalf of a world-renowned international school located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. At the end of each academic year, the school re-opens its doors for a summer school welcoming more than 400 students from over 50 countries.
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