SWISS BILINGUAL
LOWER SECONDARY

A unique opportunity for HIF students: as the first secondary school in the Canton of Graubünden, the HIF offers a three-year bilingual programme (grade 7-9) in the Lower Secondary school. Subjects such as Mathematics, History and Geography will be taught immersively in English and others in German. The added advantage of a strong additional language on top of a broad general secondary education creates a solid basis for:

• The entrance examination for transfer to the Swiss Bilingual Matura, grades 9
• Vocational training and start in a competitive working world

International students can also take the entrance examination for admission to the Swiss Matura programme in grade 8 or grade 9 of lower secondary.

 Other special features

• All students learn three languages: German, English and a second Swiss national language
• Individual attention and support
• Targeted preparation for the entrance examination to the Swiss Matura (for entrance in grade 9)
• Short-term internships in companies offering apprenticeships
• Strong focus on careers advice in grades 8 and 9
• Attend Matura classes in Sport and Music
• Option to study elective subjects

Developed by education experts and teachers over many years, Lehrplan 21 is a strategy aimed at harmonising the Swiss education system across the country. It replaces the former knowledge-focused curriculum with one containing a stronger orientation towards transferable skills and inter-disciplinary links between subjects. These skills are learned and practiced in the context of classroom study.

Excellent teaching is key to the success of this approach. Teachers convey knowledge but also act as facilitators. They design lessons which cultivate thinking skills and collaboration. Students are guided to formulate questions for inquiry and investigation. At the same time teachers use a variety of methods and activities to create stimulating learning environments which encourage communication and team work. Lessons are planned so that students with a range of learning abilities and learning preferences can participate fully.