What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?
Switzerland is famous for its excellent educational system. Both public and private schools are available, but most Swiss children attend public schools, which are free.  There are also many private and boarding schools in the region with varying fee structures. Since French and German are the common languages offered in public schools, many expats arriving in the region choose English-speaking private (international) schools for their children. Some prefer to send their children to public schools, however, because there are many opportunities for bilingual or foreign-language education.

Because the public schooling system changes from canton to canton, you are encouraged to research, prior to your arrival, where you will be living and what schools are in your area of residence. 

For further assistance with regards to schooling, contact Crown Fribourg.
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What are some examples of these schools?
The International School and British Primary School (ages 3 – 11 only) of Bern in Gümligen, 40 minutes from Fribourg, if you wish to live in Bern or between Fribourg and Bern.

If you prefer living in the French part of Switzerland, you may want to consider living in the Montreux/Vevey area by Lake Leman. There are more international school options, including the International English School in Clarens, near Montreux (35 – 40-minute drive from Fribourg) or the International school of Lausanne, which is further away from Fribourg (55 minutes).  Alternatively, there is an International Montessori Primary School in Neuchâtel (approx. 45 minutes away by car).
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Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?
Yes, it is best to contact the school as soon as you know you will be moving to Switzerland.
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Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?
Yes, but for the community ones (garderies communales), their prices usually depend on your salary.  Private pre-schools are payable at a half- or full-day rate.
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How are most kids transported to and from school?
If they are within walking distance they will walk as Switzerland is a very safe country. Otherwise, they take the bus and the international schools also have a bus service that will pick up the kids if they live around the school area.
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When does the typical school year start and end?
Public school starts in mid-August and finishes at the end of June.
Private international schools start at the beginning September and finish at the end of June.
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Is there anything else I should know about local schools?
Kids go home for lunch, as there is very rarely a cafeteria/lunchroom at school.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.