1947
Founded
Welcome
to La Garenne
to La Garenne
INTERNATIONAL BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL IN VILLARS, SWITZERLAND · AGES 3-18
La Garenne International School video presentation showing boarding life, Swiss Alps campus, international students, academic excellence and student experience in Switzerland.
International Boarding School in Switzerland
La Garenne is one of the best boarding schools in the world. The school is located in Villars-sur-Ollon, a safe and family-friendly Alpine resort in the Swiss Alps, where we welcome students aged from 3 to 18.
Our mottoBe Happy, and Never Never Never Give Up
Our family-run boarding and day school is known for its strong values, close-knit international community, focus on well-being, and a commitment to developing responsible global citizens.
Founded in 1947, La Garenne provides a continuous international education from Pre-Reception and Reception through Primary and Secondary School to the IB Diploma or La Garenne High School Diploma.
As a private boarding school in Switzerland, La Garenne welcomes international students seeking a high-quality education in a nurturing and well-supervised setting. Our school combines academic ambition, pastoral care and an international outlook in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
- 36Average IB Diploma scoreWorld average: 30 (2026)
- 100%First-choice university offers
- 40+Nationalities
- 50+Activities and clubs
La Garenne at a Glance
Discover the key facts that define La Garenne: a close-knit international boarding and day school established in 1947 and located in the inspiring Swiss Alps.
Villars-sur-Ollon
Swiss Alps
Ages 3–18
Age range
Approximately 200
Students
40+
Nationalities
2
Alpine campuses
Boarding and day
School type
IPC to IB Diploma
Academic pathway
Boarding
Read more about Boarding at La Garenne
La Garenne has been run by the Méan family for decades. This continuity is at the heart of the school’s “Family Away from Home” philosophy, creating a close-knit boarding community in which each student is known, supported and cared for.
Our boarding school welcomes students from more than 40 countries, creating a diverse and close-knit international community. Primary, Middle and Senior School students live in three separate, age-appropriate boarding residences, each with dedicated House Parents and staff who live on site.
With a 2:1 ratio of boarding staff to students, children benefit from personal attention, daily supervision and consistent pastoral care. From morning routines to evening activities, our boarding team provides a safe, supportive environment where students develop independence, confidence and lasting friendships. Dedicated counselling, wellbeing and safeguarding support are also available throughout the school.
Primary School Programmes
Read more about our Primary School programs
RECEPTION & PRE-RECEPTION (ages 3 to 5)
Big discoveries begin with small steps. At La Garenne, children from the age of 3 enjoy a unique start to their education in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Our Early Years Centre combines the warmth of a family environment with exciting opportunities to explore, discover and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Our Pre-Reception and Reception programmes follow the seven areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), enriched by outdoor learning inspired by Forest School principles. Through play, exploration and practical activities, children develop independence, creativity, curiosity and problem-solving skills, building a strong foundation for Primary School.
From the earliest years, our approach combines academic learning with creativity, wellbeing and personal development.
PRIMARY SCHOOL (ages 5 to 11)
The primary years are a time for growing confidence, new challenges and exciting discoveries. At La Garenne International Primary School, children enjoy a personalised education that combines strong academic foundations with creativity, curiosity and a love of learning.
Our Primary School follows the English National Curriculum (ENC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), combining academic excellence with engaging, innovative teaching. Every child is encouraged to develop at their own pace, building the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for a smooth transition to the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP).
Beyond the classroom, children learn to become independent, responsible and caring individuals. Through outdoor adventures, friendships and new experiences in the Swiss Alps, they develop resilience, wellbeing and a strong sense of belonging in a safe, supportive school community.
Big discoveries begin with small steps. At La Garenne, children from the age of 3 enjoy a unique start to their education in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Our Early Years Centre combines the warmth of a family environment with exciting opportunities to explore, discover and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Our Pre-Reception and Reception programmes follow the seven areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), enriched by outdoor learning inspired by Forest School principles. Through play, exploration and practical activities, children develop independence, creativity, curiosity and problem-solving skills, building a strong foundation for Primary School.
From the earliest years, our approach combines academic learning with creativity, wellbeing and personal development.
The primary years are a time for growing confidence, new challenges and exciting discoveries. At La Garenne International Primary School, children enjoy a personalised education that combines strong academic foundations with creativity, curiosity and a love of learning.
Our Primary School follows the English National Curriculum (ENC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), combining academic excellence with engaging, innovative teaching. Every child is encouraged to develop at their own pace, building the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for a smooth transition to the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP).
Beyond the classroom, children learn to become independent, responsible and caring individuals. Through outdoor adventures, friendships and new experiences in the Swiss Alps, they develop resilience, wellbeing and a strong sense of belonging in a safe, supportive school community.
Secondary School
Read more about our Secondary School curriculum
IB Middle Years Programme & IGCSE (ages 11 to 16)
At La Garenne, students develop academic knowledge, independence and confidence in a supportive international learning environment.
In Years 7 to 9 (ages 11-14), students follow the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP), developing critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills through inquiry and learning across subjects.
In Years 10 and 11 (ages 14-16), students work towards internationally recognised International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) qualifications, preparing them for their final two years of study.
IB DIPLOMA & HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA PROGRAMMES (AGES 16 TO 18)
Students choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) and the La Garenne High School Diploma, with subject choices tailored to their strengths and university ambitions.
With a maximum of 12 students per class, personalised teaching encourages independent thinking, research and academic excellence.
In 2026, La Garenne achieved a 100% IB pass rate and an average score of 36 points, compared with a global average of 30. Our highest individual IB score is 44 points.
UNIVERSITY COUNSELLING
University and careers guidance begins in Year 9, with personalised support for subject choices, university research and applications.
Our Class of 2026 received offers from leading universities, including UCL, Manchester, Bristol, Bath, Pennsylvania State University and UC Davis, achieving a 100% first-choice university acceptance rate.
ACCREDITATIONS & AUTHORISATIONS
La Garenne is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and is an authorised IB World School offering the MYP and Diploma Programme.
The school is an authorised examination centre for Cambridge English Qualifications, IGCSE (Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA) and IELTS.
La Garenne is also a member of SGIS, the Boarding Schools' Association (BSA) and the Swiss Private Schools Federation (FSEP).
At La Garenne, students develop academic knowledge, independence and confidence in a supportive international learning environment.
In Years 7 to 9 (ages 11-14), students follow the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP), developing critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills through inquiry and learning across subjects.
In Years 10 and 11 (ages 14-16), students work towards internationally recognised International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) qualifications, preparing them for their final two years of study.
Students choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) and the La Garenne High School Diploma, with subject choices tailored to their strengths and university ambitions.
With a maximum of 12 students per class, personalised teaching encourages independent thinking, research and academic excellence.
In 2026, La Garenne achieved a 100% IB pass rate and an average score of 36 points, compared with a global average of 30. Our highest individual IB score is 44 points.
UNIVERSITY COUNSELLING
University and careers guidance begins in Year 9, with personalised support for subject choices, university research and applications.
Our Class of 2026 received offers from leading universities, including UCL, Manchester, Bristol, Bath, Pennsylvania State University and UC Davis, achieving a 100% first-choice university acceptance rate.
ACCREDITATIONS & AUTHORISATIONS
La Garenne is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and is an authorised IB World School offering the MYP and Diploma Programme.
The school is an authorised examination centre for Cambridge English Qualifications, IGCSE (Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA) and IELTS.
La Garenne is also a member of SGIS, the Boarding Schools' Association (BSA) and the Swiss Private Schools Federation (FSEP).
Primary Campus
La Garenne
Read more about our beautiful campus
La Garenne has two campuses in Villars-sur-Ollon, located just five minutes apart on foot. The Primary and Middle School Campus comprises four traditional Swiss chalets with dedicated buildings for learning, boarding and student wellbeing.
Chalet La Garenne accommodates Primary School boarders in Years 1-6. Chalet Beau Site accommodates boarders in Years 7-9. For teaching purposes, the Millennium building houses classrooms for Reception to Year 3, while the Academia building provides dedicated learning spaces for students in Years 4-9.
Le Roc Senior Campus
Read more about our second campus location
Le Roc, La Garenne’s Secondary Campus, is an architectural landmark. Located next to the main Villars ski lift, the building combines traditional Alpine architecture with contemporary design and brings senior learning, boarding and community life together in one building. The campus includes bright twin en-suite bedrooms with views of the surrounding Alps, classrooms, a design studio, fitness centre, refectory, libraries, and a flexible community space. Le Roc is designed to support academic focus, independent living and delivers a strong sense of community for senior students.
Extracurricular Activities
Read more about our extracurricular activities
For students who want to explore a new skill, pursue a hobby or develop a passion for sport or the arts, La Garenne offers more than 50 extracurricular activities. Options range from mountain biking, music and robotics, to the Model United Nations (MUN) debating society.
Extracurricular activities are an important part of life at La Garenne, helping students build confidence, creativity, independence and lasting friendships. Whether energetic, creative or reflective, each activity gives students space to discover their strengths, develop their talents and, in the spirit of the Senior School, “Unleash your talents. Inspire the world.”
Latest News
Explore the latest stories, achievements and memorable moments from across the La Garenne community, including academic projects, school events, activities, trips and campus life.
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Read articleSummer Camps
The best Summer Camp in Switzerland starts here! Get ready for an unforgettable summer of adventure in the Swiss Alps, filled with outdoor exploration, fun on the lake, sports, arts, and excursions. At La Garenne, you set your own rhythm and discover just how much joy learning and growing can bring.
Along the way, you will make friends from all over the world, build your confidence, challenge yourself and boost your English or French. And best of all? You will get a real feel for boarding life in a warm, welcoming community that might just become your second home. Summer Camps are open to students aged from 5 to 16.
Discover our Summer Camps
Winter Camps
Fresh snow, fresh air, and the best skiing in Switzerland: our Winter Camps are all about making the best of our stunning mountain location. Whether you are skiing for the first time or already racing down black runs, you will train with top Swiss instructors and enjoy winter sports up to four times a week.
With flexible options from 1 to 10 weeks, students aged 5 to 14 can combine skiing with English lessons in a fully international environment. It is the perfect way to learn, grow, and discover the magic of boarding, while having the time of your life in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
For students who want to experience life at La Garenne before committing to a full academic year, we offer an Integration Programme with a full academic and sports timetable for a minimum stay of two weeks.
Discover our Winter Camps
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about La Garenne’s academic programmes, boarding experience, international community and location in Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland.
Cannot find your answer? Our Admissions team is happy to help.
Contact Admissions →What kind of school is La Garenne?
La Garenne is a family-run international boarding and day school in Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland, welcoming students aged 3 to 18.
Is La Garenne accredited?
La Garenne is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). It is authorised as an IB World School and is an authorised examination centre for Cambridge English Qualifications, IGCSE examinations through Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA, and IELTS. La Garenne is a member of the Swiss Group of International Schools (SGIS), the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA), and the Swiss Private Schools Federation (FSEP).
What curriculum and programmes does La Garenne offer?
La Garenne offers a continuous pathway from Pre-Reception and Reception for ages 3-5, based on the Early Years Foundation Stage, through Primary School for ages 5–11, following the English National Curriculum and International Primary Curriculum. Students then progress to the IB Middle Years Programme for ages 11–14, IGCSE qualifications for ages 14–16, and finally the IB Diploma Programme or High School Diploma for ages 16–18.
What are La Garenne’s academic results?
In the 2025/26 academic year, La Garenne’s IB Diploma candidates achieved a 100% pass rate, with an average score of 36 compared with a global average of 30. The highest score achieved was 44.
Where do La Garenne graduates go to university?
University guidance begins in Year 9, for students aged 13–14. Graduates from the Class of 2025/26 received offers from universities including UCL, Manchester, Bristol, Pennsylvania State University, Bath and UC Davis, as well as other leading research institutions. The first-choice university acceptance rate was 100%.
How many students attend La Garenne, and how diverse is the community?
La Garenne welcomes approximately 200 students from more than 40 countries.
Does La Garenne offer boarding, and what does boarding life look like?
Boarding is available across the Primary, Middle and Senior sections. Students live in three age-specific residences with full-time House Parents providing daily supervision, from wake-up routines to evening check-ins, at a boarding staff-to-student ratio of 2:1.
How does La Garenne support student safety and wellbeing?
Students have access to counselling, wellbeing and safeguarding support throughout the school, alongside full-time House Parents living in each residence.
Where is La Garenne located?
La Garenne has two campuses in Villars-sur-Ollon, in the Swiss Alps, five minutes apart on foot. The Primary and Middle School campus comprises four traditional Swiss chalets (including Chalet La Garenne, Chalet Beau Site, the Millennium building, and the Academia building); the Secondary campus, Le Roc, sits next to the main Villars ski lift. The school is approximately 90 minutes (119 km) from Geneva Airport, 40 minutes from Montreux, and 60 minutes from Lausanne.
Who is the Headteacher and their supporting leadership team?
Gavin Williams is the Headteacher, supported by Danielle Allard, Head of Primary and Middle School and Alexandra Hunn, Head of High School.
What languages are used at La Garenne?
Education at La Garenne is conducted in English, supported by an Intensive English Programme until students reach at least B1 level. French is compulsory until age 16, and the school is certified to offer the DELF diploma, with students achieving a 100% success rate.
What are La Garenne's fees?
Full-Year Boarding starts from CHF 85’000
Read more: https://www.la-garenne.ch/admissions/#fees
Visit Our Campus in Switzerland
La Garenne is located in Villars-sur-Ollon in the Swiss Alps. The school is approximately 90 minutes (119 km) from Geneva Airport, 40 minutes from Montreux and 60 minutes from Lausanne.
Distances from our location to key destinations:
- Geneva Airport: 90 min. 119 km
- Zurich Airport: 150 min. 241 km
- Montreux: 37 min. 29 km
- Lausanne: 57 min. 56 km
- Bern: 88 min. 119km
Click the map below to pinpoint our locations.
La Garenne Campuses
Primary School
Chemin des Chavasses 23
1885 Chesières, Switzerland
+41 24 495 24 53
info@la-garenne.ch
Secondary School
Route des Layeux 28
1885 Chesières, Switzerland
+41 24 495 24 53
info@la-garenne.ch
Map
List