A Complete Guide to Schools in Ticino for Expat Families

Moving to a new country with children is exciting — and choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Luckily, Ticino is a family-friendly canton with a wide range of educational opportunities. From high-quality public schools to private and international institutions, parents can find settings that fit their children’s needs, language skills, and future goals.

Whether you’re looking for a bilingual kindergarten, an IB diploma programme, or extra language support for newcomers, this guide to schools in Ticino will help you understand the landscape and prepare for enrolment.

Public vs Private Schools in Ticino

Ticino’s public schools enjoy a strong reputation for academic quality and inclusion. Teaching is mainly in Italian, but English and German are introduced early, and teachers are used to supporting children who arrive from abroad. Class sizes are moderate, and tuition is free except for small annual contributions (usually under CHF 300 for materials or trips).

Public schools are an excellent choice if you want your children to integrate quickly into local life, learn Italian fluently, and build friendships with Swiss classmates. The curriculum follows federal guidelines, with compulsory schooling from age 4/5 (scuola dell’infanzia) to 15 (end of lower secondary). After that, students choose between academic (liceo), vocational, or technical tracks.

Private schools, on the other hand, offer smaller classes, more individualised attention, and sometimes alternative approaches (Montessori, Steiner, or project-based learning). They can be a good fit for children needing extra support or for families who prefer a specific educational philosophy. Fees vary widely: from CHF 8,000 to 20,000 per year depending on services, meals, and after-school activities.

International Schools and Curricula

For expats who want continuity with home-country systems or a globally recognised diploma, international schools in Ticino provide diverse curricula:

• The International Baccalaureate (IB) is available from primary through diploma level. It encourages inquiry-based learning and prepares students for universities worldwide.

• Some schools follow British programmes, offering IGCSEs and A-Levels, often with a multicultural student body.

• Others adopt a US-style curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which may suit families planning to move again or whose children aim for North American colleges.

Most international schools are based in or near Lugano, with a few options around Bellinzona and Locarno. They typically combine rigorous academics with arts, sports, and service projects, creating a rich environment for expat children. Bilingual models — half in English, half in Italian — are increasingly popular, helping students develop strong skills in both languages while staying connected to Ticino’s culture.

Enrolment and Fees

Applying to schools in Ticino is generally straightforward, but timing is key. Public schools require registration with your local comune (municipality). You’ll need proof of residence, your child’s birth certificate, and health-insurance details. Enrolment is possible throughout the year, though starting at the beginning of a term (late August or after the winter holidays) eases integration.

Private and international schools usually set admission deadlines between January and May for the following academic year, but many accept rolling applications if places are available. Expect to submit recent report cards, references, and sometimes an interview or trial day.

Fees reflect the type of programme and services included. International schools offering IB or British/American tracks can cost between CHF 18,000 and 35,000 per year, including tuition, lunches, and extracurricular activities. Smaller bilingual schools or Montessori settings may range from CHF 8,000 to 15,000. Some provide sibling discounts or financial aid; it’s worth asking during the admissions process.

Budget also for transport (school buses can add CHF 1,500–2,000 annually), uniforms, and optional trips or camps.

Support for Non-Italian Speakers

One of Ticino’s strengths is its openness to newcomers. Public schools often provide language integration classes for children who arrive without Italian. These lessons help pupils gain vocabulary while gradually joining mainstream subjects. Many municipalities also offer after-school homework clubs and summer camps to reinforce skills.

International and bilingual schools naturally accommodate different language levels, with English or mixed instruction from day one. Some hire tutors or learning specialists who design tailored programmes for students adapting to a new system.

Parents can encourage progress by joining local libraries, signing up for family events, or arranging informal playdates. Even small daily conversations in Italian — at the market or on the playground — make a big difference. Ticino’s friendly communities mean that children often pick up the language faster than adults.

Book a School Orientation Call

Choosing between public, private, and international options depends on your child’s age, personality, and long-term plans. Understanding curricula, fees, and language support will help you make a confident decision.

📲 WhatsApp: +41 76 771 30 22

📧 Email: info@knotted.ch

Book a school orientation call with our team. We’ll guide you through enrolment steps, explain differences between Ticino’s education paths, and connect you with resources so your children can thrive from their first day in class.