Swiss or international?

In an ever-internationalizing world, this dilemma may be familiar: a local school is important for integration, culture and belonging. An international school, however, also seems essential for long-term success in a flexible, cosmopolitan and global society. So we asked ourselves: why can't a school be both?

SOT combines the advantages of an "international school" with the foundation of the local Swiss school.

Lehrplan 21:

For the so-called cycles 1-3 (which correspond to kindergarten, primary and secondary), the SOT is based on the Zurich Lehrplan 21, as is the elementary school. In addition, the English language takes center stage and is learned to a level equivalent to a second mother tongue. A seamless transition from the SOT to both elementary school and an international school is therefore possible!

International Baccalaureate (IB):

From secondary school onwards, students can choose whether they wish to continue their education in the Swiss system with a federal Matura or whether they prefer an internationally recognized Matura (IB Diploma Program). SOT offers a Gymnasium with Gymnasium the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma (available from summer 2028). This is recognized worldwide and accepted by virtually all universities and colleges in Switzerland. This decision can also be made in the third year of secondary school. If students leave our school during grades 7–9, they are well prepared for the transition to public Swiss education. A child at SOT can therefore develop their potential without unnecessary and premature pressure.

Mindset and personal development:

Lehrplan 21 provides a solid foundation for a child's learning progress and development. However, it does not teach essential areas of interpersonal skills, personal development and mindset. These areas are crucial for future success and lifelong fulfillment. This is why SOT attaches great importance to these areas, which are promoted, learned and trained in a targeted, individual and continuous manner - with every single pupil!

Technology & Digital Literacy:

Technology has become an integral part of our everyday lives. However, it is often used as a crutch rather than a tool. That is why one of the cornerstones of the SOT is ensuring that every child achieves a high level of digital literacy. This means not only the purposeful and skillful use of the latest technology, but, above all, the development of awareness and responsibility in the broad field of technology. This includes not only skills such as coding or robotics, but also the conscious and responsible use of screens, smart devices and the internet, as well as an understanding of the dangers and risks of social media (which, by the way, we do not recommend for students up to and including secondary school).