7 best private schools in Zurich that give Swiss precision a whole new meaning
Choosing a school in Zurich can feel like picking a future career path before your kid even knows how to tie their shoes. The pressure is real, especially when everyone around you seems to have a 10-year plan in place.
Private schools offer a more personalised and well-rounded approach, with smaller classes and a broader range of learning options. It’s not just about top marks, it’s about helping students grow in the right environment.
From language support to international programs, private schools in Zurich provide the structure parents love and kids enjoy. It’s a solid option for families who want more than just the basics.
If you’re unsure where to start, our guide is a great place to begin.
1. Serendipity Montessori
Address: Dufourstrasse 5, 8702 Zollikon, Switzerland
Contact Details: +41 43 883 31 78
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Serendipity Montessori is a bilingual (English/German) private school rooted in the AMI Montessori philosophy, dedicated to nurturing joyful, confident, and capable learners. The school emphasizes immersive academics, learning experiences informed by up-to-date brain research, critical thinking skills, and strong character development to support children’s long-term success.
Led by Ms. Zoe, Serendipity Montessori benefits from leadership shaped by many years of teaching experience, personal Montessori experience and international teaching exposure. Her background as a former Montessori student brings authenticity and deep understanding to the school’s educational approach.
The private school focuses on holistic child development through a nurturing and individualized learning environment, with large and bright classrooms furnished with love and care, several animals such as dogs, rabbits, axalotls, tortoises as well as a 400m2 garden including fruit trees and their own vegetable garden. Learning is positioned as a journey of curiosity, fascination, and self-discovery rather than pressure-driven instruction.
Language development, science exploration, and mathematics are introduced in ways that encourage confidence and genuine interest. Guided by two fully trained full time teachers, this approach helps children engage deeply without fear, allowing them to explore subjects at their own pace. After the academic day, Serendipity Montessori offers many additional activities such as tennis, dance classes, ball sports, theatre and musical classes and instrument lessons.
Serendipity Montessori also integrates emotional support into its private school services. The founder’s training in art therapy strengthens the school’s ability to guide children through challenging moments with care and sensitivity.
With experience spanning multiple countries and educational systems, the school reflects a global perspective on early childhood education. This international foundation supports a well-rounded, culturally aware learning environment for young students.
At Serendipity Montessori School, children learn through the AMI Montessori method while being guided alongside the L21 curriculum, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition into Swiss local schools at any point in their educational journey.
We are very happy with the school environment and culture
“Our son has been attending Serendipity for nearly 1 year in the toddler group. His growth in terms of language skills, problem-solving, independence and confidence has been remarkable. We are very happy with the school environment and culture. He is happy going to school each morning, loves to see his teachers Ms Hannah and Ms Elke, and little friends. He has so many fun adventures with his class – going to local cafe for babyccino, Christmas market, botanical garden to name a few, baking and they spend lots of time outside. When he arrives into school he is often greeted by several of the other teachers and administrators, all of whom know him by name. It is a very close knit community within the school and we are extremely pleased to be a part of it. Keep up the excellent work!!!”
- Jennifer Ryan, Google Review
The whole Serendipity community is just amazing
“My two girls attended Serendipity for two years and I am incredibly thankful for the dedication of their two amazing teachers Ms Callie and Ms Maria. They equipped them with confidence, trained their social skills and helped them get fluent in English. But what matters most: they really captured them. The whole Serendipity community is just amazing and we made so many good friends among kids and parents.”
- Jana Caduff, Google Review
2. Trinity Montessori
Address: Bergstrasse 66, 8810 Horgen
Contact Details: +41 43 883 31 78
Operating Hours: Mondays to Fridays from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm.
Trinity Montessori, the sister school to Serendipity Montessori, is a bilingual (English/German) private school rooted in the AMI Montessori philosophy, dedicated to nurturing joyful, confident, and capable learners. The school emphasizes immersive academics, learning experiences informed by up-to-date brain research, critical thinking skills, and strong character development to support children’s long-term success.
Led by Ms. Zoe, Trinity Montessori benefits from leadership shaped by many years of teaching experience, personal Montessori experience and international teaching exposure. Her background as a former Montessori student brings authenticity and deep understanding to the school’s educational approach.
The private school focuses on holistic child development within a nurturing and individualized learning environment, uniquely located directly adjacent to the forest, surrounded by a small river and unspoiled nature. Trinity offers large, light-filled classrooms furnished with love and intention, as well as rich learning spaces including an art studio for pottery and woodworking, a project room, sensory and music rooms, a vegetable garden, and the presence of several animals. Learning is viewed as a journey of curiosity, fascination, and self-discovery, rather than pressure-driven instruction.
Language development, science exploration, and mathematics are introduced in ways that encourage confidence and genuine interest. Guided by two fully trained full time teachers, this approach helps children engage deeply without fear, allowing them to explore subjects at their own pace. After the academic day, Trinity Montessori offers many additional activities such as tennis, dance classes, ball sports, theatre and musical classes and instrument lessons.
Trinity Montessori also integrates emotional support into its private school services. The founder’s training in art therapy strengthens the school’s ability to guide children through challenging moments with care and sensitivity.
With experience spanning multiple countries and educational systems, the school reflects a global perspective on early childhood education. This international foundation supports a well-rounded, culturally aware learning environment for young students.
At Trinity Montessori School, children learn through the AMI Montessori method while being guided alongside the L21 curriculum, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition into Swiss local schools at any point in their educational journey.
With support and encouragement of long term families and community, Trinity Montessori opened in August 2024 in Horgen, Trinity Montessori expands access to high-quality private Montessori education in the Zurich area. The school positions itself as a close-knit community where families and educators work together to support each child’s unique journey.
The teachers are absolutely incredible.
“Both my daughters (6 and 7) attend Trinity Montessori School in Horgen since inception. Their academic development is impressive. Both are fluent in German and English and were able to read in both languages very early on. Their social development is incredible: mindful, attentive, caring and highly social. The mathematical fundament of the Montessori Concept is structuring their thinking and the teachers are absolutely incredible. I can highly recommend.”
- Carla Bünger, Google Review
The atmosphere is warm, respectful, and tailored to the children’s needs
“Our daughter attends the primary level of the Montessori school and receives wonderful support there. She learned English quickly and now enjoys reading and math. The atmosphere is warm, respectful, and tailored to the children’s needs, allowing each child to learn at their own pace. We feel completely at ease there – highly recommended!”
- Fabian, Google Review
3. Hull’s School
Address: Falkenstrasse 28A, 8008
Contact Details: +41442543040
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Friday: 8 AM – 4 PM
Hull’s School has carved out a serious academic niche as Zurich’s first English college, and we think it delivers impressively on its mission. Its laser focus on IGCSEs and A-Levels gives students a streamlined, seamless path to top Swiss and UK universities.
We were especially pleased by the small class sizes, typically capped at 18, which make it easier for teachers to give real individual attention. Academic coaching, peer mentoring, and a smart, supportive blend of independence are even included.
It’s also worth mentioning their in-house Aldous Huxley Centre. It’s a literary research space where students curate exhibits and attend live symposiums.
It’s not all books, either, because Hull offers debating, Model UN clubs, music studios, and art workshops on its multi-building city campus.
We also found the all-inclusive fee system impressive, which ranges from CHF 29,400 to CHF 30,600.
The only drawback is that it starts at Year 10, so there’s no lower school or continuity for younger students. That’s something to weigh if you’re after a long-term private school journey from the early years up.
Thoughtfully engaged with the students and their families
“At Hull’s School, we can confidently share positive impressions. Principal James Cunningham was exceptionally well-prepared for our visit. He thoughtfully engaged with the students and their families, asking about their needs, dreams, and future aspirations. He showcased the school in the best possible light. On behalf of Alliance Relocation Switzerland, we highly recommend Hull’s School.”
- Alliance Relocation Switzerland, Google Review
A real community that you’ll always be a part of
“After a year and a half of battling my way through a Swiss Gymi, I transferred to Hull’s to do my IGCSEs and A-Levels. I was immediately made to feel at home by both staff and students. The office staff are lovely and very helpful, and the teachers are absolutely wonderful. I got all the support I needed and then some. It’s a real community that you’ll always be a part of. My brother is a current student there and whenever I manage to visit him at Hull’s, I’m always greeted warmly by everyone, despite having graduated almost two years ago. Both in terms of academics and extra-curricular activities, I loved my time and Hull’s. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am now, having been accepted to Russel Group Universities and a Royal Conservatoire. Thanks, Hull’s!”
- Ella K., Google Review
4. Benedict School Zürich
Address: Vulkanstrasse 106, 8048
Contact Details: +41442421260
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 7:30 PM
- Friday: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM – 1:15 PM
Benedict School Zürich focuses on adult education, vocational training, and professional development. We were most impressed by their massive course selection, which includes everything from language diplomas and business management to nursing and IT.
We found their English department particularly dynamic. It offers Cambridge Certificate prep and specialised English for Banking or Aviation. It’s perfect if you’re after industry-focused programmes that deliver tangible qualifications, not just theory.
Another standout for us is the flexibility of everything. Classes run mornings, evenings, and weekends, so you’re covered whether you’re a working professional or juggling family life.
They also offer language immersion weeks abroad, a refreshing bonus for those who want to apply their learning in a real-world context.
The vibe at the school feels more career-focused than academic, and we honestly think it works well for driven learners.
If there’s one hitch, the school’s sheer size and range can make it feel a bit impersonal. You won’t get that small-classroom intimacy here.
The teacher was extremely prepared and professional
“I followed a full month intensive German course for beginners and the teacher was extremely prepared and professional. Really motivating and experienced. The building is also very well connected and well structured. I would really recommend this school for anyone wanting to learn new languages!”
- Annalisa Lanzolla, Google Review
The environment is great, and the teachers are friendly
“I highly recommend Benedict Language School. I started German classes recently as a beginner and found the program extremely well structured. The school provides fantastic “custom-made” books and reading materials which are supported with CD’s and apps enabling me to access the information I need easily. The environment is great, the teachers are friendly and foster a fun ambiance in the class. Since the beginning of my registration process with Mr. Di Santo, my entire learning experience at Benedict has been wonderful. Everyone has been extremely understanding and helpful throughout my journey, and for this I am truly grateful. Dwight Anthony Pollocks. Student.”
- Dwight Pollocks, Google Review
5. SIS Swiss International School Zürich-Wollishofen
Address: Seestrasse 271, 8038
Contact Details: +41433998844
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 5 PM
SIS Zürich-Wollishofen nails what a bilingual school should look like. Native speakers teach both English and German, 50/50, daily. It’s not just a school with two languages on the timetable, it’s a proper cultural blend.
We liked how compact and focused it felt, catering to around 220 students from 20+ nationalities, keeping things international without feeling overwhelming.
The continuity here is also solid: kids can start at age five and move through to Grade 6, then transition smoothly into SIS Zürich’s secondary and college campus for Matura or IB.
Also, classrooms are kitted out with smart boards, science labs, and even media literacy starting in primary school. This is something we rarely see done well at this level.
On the flip side, though, the highly structured bilingual setup may not suit children who need more flexibility or creative freedom.
And while extras like transport and after-school clubs are fab, they add to the CHF 12,680 base tuition, which is not the cheapest in town.
Regardless, working families love the 7 AM to 6 PM day model, with optional care and transport, because it takes a load off.
Offers a range of after-school clubs
“Amazing, I only attend SIS for about a year, but it was amazing. The teachers are incredible and they offer a range of after-school clubs along with care.
During lunch students will sometimes visit Landiwiese or the nearby Rosengarten with their classmates and fellow students. It is truly a wonderful school, recommend it if you are looking for a bilingual primary school in the Wollishofen/Enge area
Thank you SIS for an memorable year and a quarter. Miss all of you”
- Kiki S., Google Review
Never boring; there was always something to do
“I’m an alumnus of SIS Wollishofen. I was in my 6th year there. The best school of my life. I was there for 8 years, it was never boring; there was always something to do. My personal opinion is that SIS has the best teaching team. I thank you for the fantastic 8 years. ❤️”
- Sophie Eberle, Google Review
6. VOX-Sprachschule
Address: Zähringerstrasse 51, 8001
Contact Details: +41442211133
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 9 PM
VOX-Sprachschule may be younger than most on this list, but it’s already making serious waves in Zurich’s language-learning scene. We like how the school treats communication using linguistics-based methods to train your brain to speak naturally.
Now, while VOX’s ultra-focused classes are great for rapid progress, they’re not designed for traditional full-time schooling. This setup works brilliantly for adult learners or professionals, but if you’re after a long-term academic track, it’s not the right fit.
Even so, we were genuinely impressed by their “VOX Method.” It focuses heavily on speaking and pronunciation, utilising active recall and subconscious reinforcement—yes, even the quirky “Seinfeld Chain” technique made its way into our trial lesson.
In fact, all teachers here are linguists with university training, and if your dynamic with one doesn’t click, VOX lets you switch without awkwardness.
Their class sizes are tiny, with a maximum of 2 to 5 people. We received a lot of feedback, especially during pronunciation drills.
And with locations in Zurich Central, online options and 0% instalment plans, it’s a well-oiled machine with a lot of heart.
Nice classrooms and well-thought-out learning materials
“I started to learn German with an A1 course with Yelyzaveta Berezovska and I must say I really enjoy our classes, she is the best! Combined with the location, nice classrooms and well-thought learning materials, my experience could not be better. I also would like to thank Maria Davydova, who always answers all the numerous questions I have regarding the studying process. I definitely recommend VOX as a place to learn German ❤”
- Bastet Tao, Google Review
Offers the top quality and is very flexible
“I had a great experience learning German at Vox. I have visited multiple schools in Zürich, Vox is so far the best language school in town. Many thanks for offering the top quality, for being flexible and for your effort to make the customers happy.”
- Thu Le, Google Review
7. International Language School Zurich (ILS)
Address: Hagenholzstrasse 81a, 8050
Contact Details: +41447976327
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
We were genuinely surprised by how much ILS packs into one language school. From its central Oerlikon location to its 40+ language offerings and EduQua certification, it feels like a serious hub for motivated learners.
The ultra-small group sizes, just 2 to 6 students, made a noticeable difference during trial sessions. Lessons feel less like lectures and more like personalised coaching, with loads of targeted feedback that sticks.
We also appreciate the flexibility of the program: it offers super-intensive daytime options, evening and weekend formats, and even Quattro groups for private study, with prices as low as CHF 25 per lesson.
It’s especially ideal for anyone preparing for official certifications, as they’re licensed to host major exams such as TELC, FIDE, DELF-DALF, and Cambridge on-site.
However, the range of course formats and locations might overwhelm more casual learners. You’ll also need to be quite self-motivated since there’s no fixed “school year” structure like in academic settings.
The process was super easy and clear
“Great communication, I’d lost the original email with all the details on so getting that resent was quick and easy. ILS was super easy to find and clearly sign posted.
The 2 girls behind the desk were lovely, helpful and friendly. The process was super easy and clear, the other 2 examiners for our speaking test were also very nice. Always helps in exam situations 🙂 the building was very clean and I liked that we were given water, a pencil & rubber. Would highly recommend and go back if I require any further tests. Thank you!”
- Nina Garcia, Google Review
Would go the extra mile to make sure we understood the lesson
“Just finished my A1 level, excellent school with excellent support, the classes are small which allowed us to learn well and fast! The teacher was Super!!! Our teacher was Jana, excellent teacher very supportive and would go extra mile to make sure we understood the lesson, a very understandable teacher with a lot of patience, as we all from my class were from different nationalities! I definitely will be back to continue my next level!!!”
- Fadera Serifo, Google Review