Moving to Montreux with Children

Choosing the right school

The choice of school is the most important decision for families relocating to Montreux with children. The leading international boarding schools — Le Rosey, Beau Soleil, Aiglon — are world-class institutions but require applications 1 to 3 years in advance. The International School of Montreux (ISM) is a day school offering the IB curriculum and is conveniently located in Montreux itself.

For families who are planning a long-term stay in Switzerland, the local Swiss public schools (écoles publiques) offer an excellent education in French and provide the best opportunity for children to integrate into the local community and develop fluency in French. The transition to a French-language school can be challenging initially, but most children adapt within 6 to 12 months.

Social integration for children

Children who attend international schools in Montreux will quickly find a peer group — the international school community is welcoming and diverse, and children from many different countries and backgrounds mix easily. Children who attend Swiss public schools will initially find integration more challenging — particularly if they do not speak French — but the long-term benefits of integration into the local community are significant.

Sports clubs, music schools and other extracurricular activities are excellent ways for children to make friends and integrate into the community. Montreux has a wide range of clubs and activities for children — from football and swimming to music, art and theatre.

Family-friendly aspects of Montreux

Montreux is an exceptionally family-friendly environment. The town is safe — crime rates are very low and children can move around independently from a relatively young age. The natural setting provides exceptional opportunities for outdoor activities — the lake, the mountains and the forests above the town are all easily accessible.

The public transport system is excellent and easy for children to use independently — from the age of 10 or 11, most children in Montreux travel to school and activities by public transport. The Swiss public transport system is one of the safest and most reliable in the world.

Practical considerations

Families relocating to Montreux with children should plan the move to coincide with the start of the school year (late August) wherever possible — this minimises disruption to the children's education and allows them to start the new school year with their peers. Applications to international schools should be submitted as early as possible — ideally 6 to 12 months before the intended start date.

Children who are relocating from a non-French-speaking country should begin French language lessons before the move — even a basic level of French will significantly ease the transition. Many language schools offer French courses for children, including intensive summer programmes.

Key points

• International schools: apply 1–3 years ahead for Le Rosey/Beau Soleil/Aiglon; ISM for day school
• Swiss public schools: excellent quality; best for long-term integration; French-language
• Sports clubs and extracurricular activities: key for social integration
• Very safe environment; children can move independently from age 10–11
• Plan move for late August (school year start); begin French lessons before the move