La Garenne International School, founded in 1947, is a boutique international preparatory school for children aged 4 to 14, nestled in the Swiss Alpine village of Villars-sur-Ollon in the canton of Vaud. The school is family-owned and operated, which gives it an intimate, nurturing character that sets it apart from larger institutions. La Garenne educates approximately 90 students from over 25 nationalities, creating a small and closely connected community where every child is known and cherished. The school offers a bilingual curriculum in English and French, following both the British and French educational frameworks, with a focus on developing strong academic foundations, multilingual proficiency, and a love of learning. Teaching is characterized by small class sizes, personalized attention, and a warm, encouraging approach that builds confidence and curiosity in young learners. The campus is a charming Alpine property with modern facilities, including classrooms, a science lab, art and music rooms, and a gymnasium, all set within a mountain landscape that provides a stunning natural playground. Outdoor education is a cornerstone of the La Garenne experience, with the Alpine setting providing daily opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, swimming, and nature exploration. The school's outdoor program builds physical fitness, resilience, and an appreciation for the natural world. The arts are valued, with programs in music, visual arts, and drama that encourage creativity and self-expression. Sport is enthusiastically promoted, with a range of activities available in both winter and summer. Boarding at La Garenne is warm and homelike, with houseparents who provide a genuine family atmosphere and individualized care for every child. Pastoral care is comprehensive, with a small and dedicated staff team who take a deep personal interest in each child's happiness and development. The school's size means that children of different ages and nationalities interact closely, building cross-cultural friendships and social skills that are invaluable. La Garenne's graduates go on to attend leading international schools and senior schools in Switzerland, the UK, and beyond. For families seeking a small, nurturing international prep school in a spectacular mountain setting, La Garenne is a truly special choice.
Key Highlights
- Boutique school of approximately 90 students aged 4-14
- Family-owned with intimate, nurturing atmosphere
- Bilingual English-French curriculum
- Alpine campus with outstanding outdoor education
- Students from over 25 nationalities
Programs
Areas of Focus
Admissions
Contact
This school has not published direct contact details in the guide. Use the school website for admissions enquiries.