Terms of admission

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To date, the 1970 concordat on school coordination (School Concordat) passed by the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education (EDK) stipulates essential general conditions for the primary level and defines the school enrolment age as 6. Toward the end of pre-school, the children's readiness for school is assessed and a decision is made as to whether each child is admitted to primary school, or kept back for 1 year. The teachers, the parents or guardians, and possibly school psychological services or school medical services are involved in this decision-making process. In most cases, the school supervisory authorities (local school authority, school inspectorate) make the final decision.

Children with special education needs

The obligation to attend school also applies to children with special education needs. Depending on their developmental status, these children can be integrated into ordinary schools, or can attend special institutions (see special needs education).

More flexible transition

In several cantons, pilot projects regarding a more flexible transition from pre-school to primary school (Grundstufe and Basisstufe) are underway.

The inter-cantonal agreement on the harmonisation of compulsory education (HarmoS Concordat) constitutes an extension of the School Concordat.

Further information

Pre-school level: overview

Teaching and Learning

provides information for teachers, students, and parents who may be - looking for a teaching job in Switzerland; - planning to study at a Swiss university; - looking to enrol a child in a Swiss school.

educa.Teachingandlearning

Education Scene

offers overviews of the Swiss education system from pre-school level to continuing education as well as of important Swiss educational institutions and key players in the field.

educa.Educationscene

International

addresses teachers in Switzerland who take an interest in educational institutions and projects at an international level. It also offers the possibility of finding schools for international projects of collaboration.

educa.International

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