For partners Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources: International Baccalaureate
Programs and prices, tuition fees in Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée
PRIMARY SCHOOL (Elementary classes)
- Classes: 5, 6, 7, 8
- Programs and standards: Official (state) program.
Specialists of Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée are sincerely convinced that the first steps towards knowledge are decisive for the future of a successful person and personality. Therefore, the school has a special program of support at the initial stage, which includes a curriculum for the standard of public schools plus active additional classes. Reduced class sizes allow students to receive the required level of support. The school welcomes elementary students from the 5th grade, where they receive structured education: the teaching staff is in constant close cooperation with each other, with students and with parents, which allows them to build the most correct strategy for successful work.
The programs are extensive and go beyond the requirements of the PER (Plan d'Études Romand, a French-speaking sample of the Swiss research plan). The schedule of classes differs from that of public schools, especially in terms of transition to secondary school. Students use the 5th, 6th and 7th grades to familiarize themselves with the school and, in particular, study languages intensively. Subsequently, the 8th and 9th year allow students to complete their studies in order to choose their future paths at the end of the 9th year. The school day includes a certain number of lessons, sports, creativity and other activities. After classes, students can stay in college and work with school teachers to do homework. Thus, they benefit from personalized mentoring and develop self-reliance, which is very useful in future life. All students must attend special sessions on strategies and methods of study - these classes help to consolidate their skills and better understand their abilities. Development takes place under the strict guidance of the teacher and mentor.
COLLÈGE (Secondary school, Middle grades)
- Classes: 9, 10, 11
- Programs and standards: Preparatory year (Grade 9); Secondary A, Secondary B (10-11 grades).
The training programs of Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée are aimed at providing serious and comprehensive assistance and support to students in the process of choosing the preferred direction of development. The structure of teaching allows to postpone the orientation of students before moving to secondary school - this is done mainly to make the selection process more meaningful. Orientation occurs at the end of year 9 on the basis of academic results, when children are divided into two levels - Secondary A and Secondary B. The preparatory 9th year of schooling takes place in small classes under the strict supervision of teachers whose goal is to help children move forward and make the right choice. Characteristics of the programs:
- Secondary A (Pre-gymnasium). This type is intended mainly for those who wish to continue their studies after completing the compulsory level of schooling. The course requires intensive work and perseverance and is presented in several ways: Learning Latin or Science (including physics, applied sciences and the hour of technical drawing).
- Secondary B (General Standard). Ideal for students who are going to enter a commercial or standard school. Most of the training programs in the canton of Jura are conducted under the auspices of Secondary B.
Small class sizes and a high level of professionalism allow students to feel the best way, to focus on educational issues and receive detailed explanations on all the complex topics. Children receive additional help after classes and can work with school teachers to do homework with their help. In these extra-curricular activities, children also learn how to plan and organize their schedule. Thanks to the partnership of the school with educational institutions in Germany and Britain, pupils have the opportunity to attend special language programs in the 10th grade, which last from 1 to 3 weeks. Graduates of middle classes have a serious level of competences and skills and achieve significant success in further studies due to the fundamental base laid in them.
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (Middle Years Program)
- Classes: Middle Years Program (middle classes)
- Standard: International Baccalaureate.
International Baccalaureate (International Baccalaureate) is a well-known and very prestigious international standard of secondary education, which every year is becoming more common in schools around the world. The International Baccalaureate program covers the full period of study and is divided into 4 stages (from kindergarten and until after school, from 3 to 19 years). Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée provides training at the Middle Years Program level. The program is conducted in full compliance with the requirements and standards of IB: children receive fundamental training and develop their knowledge and talents. Empathy, curiosity, openness to the world, research and communication are only key learning values. In addition to traditional subjects - mathematics, humanities and experimental sciences - students work on interdisciplinary areas and establish links between different subjects. At the final stage, each student will have to present his own research project. The items available for study are divided into 8 broad groups:
- Linguistics
- Language and Literature
- Man and Society
- The science
- Mathematics
- Art
- Physical Education and Health Sciences
- Design.
LYCÉE (Lyceum)
- Duration: 4 years
- Standard: Maturité.
Teaching in the lyceum classes is conducted on a complex and simultaneously fascinating standard Maturité, which includes a large number of disciplines and subjects at a very high level. Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée is a recognized and accredited center, therefore its students have the right to take the most difficult Maturité exams, which are of great weight in the Swiss Confederation. The receipt of a high school diploma opens the doors to higher education institutions (University, HES, HEP) or other courses. Since 2016, Lycée Saint-Charles has offered a bilingual Franco-English Maturité exam.
The standard duration of studies at the Lyceum is 4 years: we note a flexible schedule where students can adjust their schedule, combine research with extracurricular activities, develop talents and their socialization skills. Free time and opportunities for adjusting the plan make it possible to become more independent and successful both in the general education and in the personal plan. As a supplement to the main program, lyceum pupils regularly take part in conferences and scientific symposia organized under the auspices of the Saint-Charles Forum, where they receive invaluable experience in interaction, communication and exchange of opinions. Graduates of the lyceum classes receive a Maturité diploma and have a good chance of entering prestigious higher education institutions.
BILINGUAL LYCÉE (Bilingual Lyceum)
- Duration: 4 years
- Standard: Maturité.
Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée provides the opportunity to study on the unique bilingual (Franco-English) Maturité program. For admission it is not necessary to have a high level of both languages, but it is absolutely necessary to be well motivated and have a great desire to prove yourself. The program of study is identical with the usual lyceum program, but is characterized by teaching in two languages and a strong general linguistic bias. In accordance with the requirements of the Commission of Suisse de Maturité, teaching in the target language is more than 1,300 hours for four lyceum years. Teaching in English can be given for a specific (Biology, Chemistry) and for an additional option (Biology, History), depending on the number of students who follow the bilingual course and are enrolled in these options. For subjects taught in English, teaching materials are provided in the target language, as well as oral and written evaluations. Depending on the year, the choice of specific course options may be limited. The school also recommends that its lyceum students take part in at least one linguistic program abroad, which are held in partner institutions and help develop language opportunities.
The objectives of the bilingual Maturité:
- Development of language and communication skills, allowing students to speak fluent English and achieve the best oral and written skills
- Development of a broader vocabulary and a number of specialized knowledge: a scientific dictionary, a lexicon of the humanities and much more
- Development of communicability, openness, a lively view of life
- Providing a high level of knowledge.
Graduates of a bilingual lyceum after graduation receive a diploma and enter the best and most prestigious universities, and in the future demonstrate the best professional and personal qualities.
Description of Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée
- Year of foundation: 1897
- Location: municipality of Poérreintru, Canton of Jura, Switzerland
- Age of students: 10 to 20 years
- Type of facility: private school
- Language of instruction: English, French,
- Type of study: mixed
- Number of students: about 150
- Accommodation: residence.
Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée is a prestigious and well-known educational institution located in a beautiful natural area in the Swiss canton of Jura. The school opened in 1897 and for more than a century of history has proven itself in the best way. The Swiss boarding school traditionally appreciates and develops the ideas of humanism, goodness, peace and mutual understanding, respect for oneself and others. The pupils of the school have a special outlook on life, they are real "citizens of the world" and can equally successfully apply their skills and talents in different parts of the world, transforming and changing for the better the world around them.
The institution is officially recognized by the Canton of Jura and offers education in various programs. The built-up system meets the highest standards and is developed taking into account all innovations in the field of education, where traditions and modernity are closely intertwined. High level of professionalism of employees, small class sizes and cozy atmosphere help students feel at home. The college gives an opportunity to graduates to enter the most popular educational institutions such as University of Geneva. Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée is an excellent choice for those who care about the future of their child!
What are the most important questions parents ask when looking for the right Swiss school?
First of all, safety and reliability for children is assessed. They are also looking for extracurricular activities, opportunities to travel around the country and beyond, in general the lifestyle on campus.
Educational process
The pedagogical approach is based on personalized learning and the development of each student's individual abilities. Project-based learning and differentiated teaching methods are applied, and students are encouraged to actively participate in the learning process.
- Student-to-teacher ratio — 8:1,
- Maximum class size — 15 students at all levels,
- A staff of 30 qualified teachers who also serve as mentors,
- The primary language of instruction is French. Starting from middle school level, a bilingual program in French and English is implemented, with the possible addition of a third language: German, Spanish, or Italian,
- Special EAL (English as an Additional Language) and EFL (French as an Additional Language) classes are available for international students,
- Every evening from Monday to Thursday, sessions are held during which students complete their homework under teacher supervision,
- Individual tutoring sessions are available,
- Academic performance and attendance are monitored by parents through an online portal,
- Mobile phones are not allowed in class,
- There is no school uniform.
Faculties and colleges
The school implements educational programs in accordance with the Swiss national curriculum (Plan d'études romand — PER) and international standards.
Primary school (10–12 years old)
PER program with additional English language study. The curriculum includes French and English, mathematics, natural sciences, social studies, art, music, physical education.
Collège — middle school (12–15 years old, 3 years)
Bilingual program (French + English). Subjects: French and English, mathematics, natural sciences, social studies, German or Spanish, art, music, physical education, computer science.
Lycée — upper school (15–18 years old, 3 years)
Two graduation diploma options to choose from:
- Swiss Maturité — provides access to all Swiss universities,
- International diploma — allows admission to the best universities around the world. In addition to individually chosen subjects, students take three additional courses that reveal their academic, creative, and social talents.
Summer camp (10–17 years old)
Language courses (French and English), sports, cultural excursions across Switzerland and neighboring countries. Three start dates covering June–August, duration two to three weeks.
Things to know about
- More than 125 years of history,
- Motto: «Accompagner pour grandir» — «Accompany to grow»,
- About 200 students from more than 25 countries,
- One of the first schools in the canton of Jura to offer the International Baccalaureate programme,
- Average International Baccalaureate score — 32 points, compared to the world average of 29.9 points,
- In 2024, 100% of students successfully completed the diploma programme,
- In 2023, a large-scale campus renovation was carried out,
- The library contains more than 10,000 books in French, English and other languages,
- The school is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of local entrepreneurs, academics and community representatives,
- There is an alumni association,
- Teachers know each student by name,
- Recognized by SEFRI (the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation of Switzerland).
Accommodation, meals, prices
The institution provides foreign participants with comfortable residences for living, where several dozen people can stay at the same time. Students live in standard double rooms with a full set of necessary amenities. Characteristics:
- Boys and girls live separately
- A set of furniture: bed, table, chairs, wardrobes for clothes and things
- Shared Bathroom
- Private room and education room
- Common Recreation and Entertainment Spaces
- Laundry and other amenities.
Residences are permanently staffed to help solve all emerging issues, supervise students and ensure their safety.
Meals are arranged on the principle of a full board: students receive balanced meals prepared from the freshest foods.
Activities Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée
Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée cares about the comprehensive development of its students - sports, creative, spiritual and moral - which is a top priority and helps students to become successful. At school, you can professionally engage in various sports and creativity, participate in competitions, achieve success. Available sports:
1. Professional programs:
- Tennis
- Golf
- Horseback riding
- Dancing
- Football
- Basketball
2. Standard programs:
- Football
- Basketball
- Swimming
- Volleyball
- Badminton
- Tennis
- Baseball
- Strength Trainers
- Yoga
- Fitness
3. Seasonal programs and winter types:
- Skiing
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Snowboarding
- Sledging
- Skating.
Available art and creativity:
- Choir
- Cinema
- Theatrical art
- Acting skills
- Music
- Dancing (including ballroom)
- Painting, drawing
- Architecture and design
- Fashion.
An active extra-curricular life is organized so that students can rest, be distracted from worries and make new friends. Activities include:
- Holidays on campus
- Evening movie watching
- Talent show
- Culinary show and competition
- Sport competitions
- Theater performances
- Musical concerts
- Excursions around the canton and country
- Tours and walks
- Visit to shops and shopping centers
- Restaurants and cafes.
For participants of summer camp programs there are two types of activity:
1. Included (standard):
- Museums and culture
- Castles and attractions
- Hiking, swimming, sports
- Dancing and Movies
- Weekend in nature or on excursions
2. Premium activity:
- Horseback riding
- Tennis lessons
- Amusement park
- Aviation and flight lessons
- Extreme sports.
Advantages
- Prestigious and famous private institution
- Almost 120 years of successful work
- Own methodological developments
- The educational approach, based on the values of traditions, humanism and openness
- System of comprehensive development
- Available bilingual programs (English + French)
- Individual support and support of foreign students
- Small class sizes (an average of 10 people, a maximum of 16 people)
- Highly qualified teachers and specialists
- The campus has an exceptional level of equipment.
Facilities and equipment at Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée
The campus is in a beautiful quiet place with incredibly beautiful nature, developed infrastructure and zero crime rate. The complex includes:
- Audiences for employment (comfortable workplaces)
- Administrative premises
- Library (with a lot of benefits)
- Chapel
- Sports complex (swimming pool, basketball courts and much more)
- Laboratory and computer equipment
- Classes for creative pursuits
- Residences
- A restaurant.
Admission dates and extra charges
The academic year consists of trimesters:
| Trimester | Start | Holidays | End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn | August | October | December |
| Spring | January | February | April |
| Summer | April | — | July |
Tuition fees are paid at the beginning of each trimester.
Additional expenses include:
- Registration fee upon enrollment,
- Deposit to confirm a place,
- Summer camp registration fee,
- EFL/EAL language support,
- Airport transfer,
- Medical insurance,
- Visa fees,
- Extracurricular activities,
- Pocket money.
Extras:
- Registration fee (for a programme/course) 3000 CHF
- Medical insurance 2300 CHF
Enrolment process
Enrollment at Saint-Charles International School is open throughout the year for all levels: from primary school (from age 10) to the International Baccalaureate program (up to age 18). Applicants are advised to submit documents in advance, as the number of places is limited.
The process begins with submitting an online application and providing an academic dossier: transcripts for the past 2 years, recommendations from teachers, and copies of personal documents. A mandatory requirement is an assessment of the French and/or English language level. This is followed by an in-person or remote interview with a school representative. After a positive decision, the applicant receives an official offer of enrollment and secures their place by paying a deposit.
Perspectives
The average score of diploma programme graduates is 32 points, compared to the world average of 29.9 points, which allows students to continue their studies at the best universities around the world. In 2024, 100% of students successfully completed their school education and received an international diploma.
Both diplomas offered by the school provide broad prospects for university admission. The International Diploma is recognized by leading universities worldwide and opens access to top universities in Switzerland, Europe, and other countries. The Swiss Maturité opens access to all Swiss universities.
The institution purposefully prepares graduates for admission: practice interviews are held, essay-writing workshops are conducted, and visits to Swiss university campuses are organized as part of partnership programmes.
Entry requirements, how to apply, what is required to enrol
- Statement with full and reliable information
- Report card from the previous place of study
- A high overall level of academic achievement
- Good level of English / French (or both languages at once)
- Recommendations from teachers / class teacher / director from the previous place of study
- It is possible to conduct tests on the level of knowledge.
Literature and references
Institution on the map
Residence permits, citizenship and other services
- Guardianship services during the studies
- Student supervision
Review about Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée
Recommendations on when to apply
| Language courses, schools and children's language camps | Primary and secondary education - private schools | Preparation programmes for entering universities - higher education | Higher education (after completing accredited programs A-level, IB, High School) - Bachelor, Master, MBA |
| - we recommend to apply 6-9 months before the start of the course (some camps and schools offer discounts for early booking or for lengthy study programs) - there are some very popular and high demand children's camps, where the applications need to be submitted 1 year in advance (in particular Switzerland , Great Britain , USA , Canada , Austria) | - we recommend to apply one year before the start of the training program, - some schools have a specific time frame (September-November - please specify an individual school) - some schools require tests in several stages (UKISET, internal tests of the school: English, mathematics, logics, subjects, interview, some require a personal visit) | - we recommend to apply one year before the start of the program, - for Foundation and Pathway programs, IELTS and TOEFL certificates are usually required, respectively | - recommended submission one year before the start of the program, - the deadline normally closes in January, for TOP HEIs and, as a rule, in March in other universities - for a bachelor, a Foundation or Pathway preparatory program a completed A-level, IB, High School + IELTS / TOEFL are required - for Masters you need a graduated higher education, in some cases you need a pre-Masters program - MBA requires completed higher education, work experience preferably at least 2-3 years, etc. |
