Childcare Costs in Switzerland – Why They Are Among the Highest in the World
Childcare in Switzerland is among the most expensive in the world. Daily fees of 100–150 CHF in nurseries mean full-time care can easily exceed 3,000 CHF per month. Unlike Germany or Italy, where public funding covers most costs, Swiss families carry a heavy share themselves. New political measures such as childcare allowances are on the way, yet parents still need to plan carefully to balance quality care with financial sustainability.
Special Needs Education in Swiss Private Schools – What Parents Should Know
When parents choose a private school, they often expect more individual attention and flexible learning environments. But when a child requires additional support, such as speech therapy or special needs education, families quickly discover that private schools handle these issues very differently. While some schools include basic support in their tuition, others charge extra or expect parents to organise external services. Asking the right questions early on is key to finding the right environment for your child.
Ulrich Educational Consulting Expands Services: Helping You Plan for Education, Wealth and Beyond
At Ulrich Educational Consulting, school decisions have always been the starting point — but never the whole story. As families navigate questions around location, budgeting, and long-term planning, we've expanded our services to include structured, independent guidance that connects education with financial clarity. Because planning your child’s future means planning as a family.
Coming Soon: Supporting Your Family Beyond Education
Throughout our recent work with international families, we have supported not only the search for the right educational path, but also relocation decisions—helping families identify the school regions and communities that best align with their values and long-term plans. As education planning becomes increasingly connected to other aspects of family life, we are preparing to expand our services. More soon.
Which Gymnasium Is Best? A Practical Guide for Families
That’s a question many parents ask once they have decided that the academic Matura pathway is right for their child. But with over 20 public Gymnasiums in the canton of Zurich – each offering different profiles, cultures, and programs – the answer is far from simple.
In this follow-up to our previous article on choosing between Gymnasium and vocational Maturity, we take a closer look at what really makes a Gymnasium a good fit. We explore the differences between long- and short-term Gymnasium options, bilingual Matura tracks, and even alternative routes like earning the Matura during an apprenticeship. Because in the end, it’s not about finding the “best” school – it’s about finding the right one for your child.
How to Choose Between Gymnasium and Vocational Maturity
Choosing the right educational path after compulsory schooling is a critical decision for students and their parents. In Zurich, students have the option to pursue an academic route through the gymnasial Matura or opt for a vocational maturity education, which blends practical training with academic advancement. In this article, we analyse the latest data on gymnasial Matura rates and vocational maturity students, explore the implications behind these numbers, and explain why personalised educational consulting can be essential in making the best decision.
Wrapping Up the Year: School and Childcare Deadlines for 2025
In Switzerland, education is compulsory for all children starting from kindergarten or primary school, depending on their age and location. Parents must register their children well in advance, as deadlines vary by canton. Missing these deadlines can lead to complications, particularly in high-demand areas.
For working parents, childcare spaces are often limited, making early registration crucial. In Zurich, applications for after-school programs, lunch supervision, and extracurricular activities must typically be submitted by mid-January, with some deadlines as early as December.
What makes Switzerland unique is its canton-specific approach: Each canton sets its own rules for school start dates, enrollment deadlines, and age cutoffs. For example, some cantons require children to be 4 years old by July 31, while others extend the cutoff to September 30.
Celebrating Swiss National Day
Swiss National Day is a perfect opportunity to strengthen the bonds within our community. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to Switzerland, participating in local festivities can help you and your family feel more connected. Attend local parades, enjoy traditional music, and taste Swiss delicacies like raclette and fondue. These experiences are not only fun but also educational, offering insights into Swiss culture and traditions.
Embrace the Summer Holidays: Family-Friendly Extracurricular Activities in Zurich
Summer holidays are a prime time for families, especially those who have recently moved to Switzerland, to engage in activities that combine fun and learning. Zurich, with its rich cultural landscape and diverse educational opportunities, is the perfect place for children to explore new interests and expand their horizons.
Happy Father's Day in Switzerland 02.June.24
This Father's Day, let's honour the fathers who nurture, and inspire, and reflect on the memories they've helped create. Happy Father's Day from Ulrich Educational Consulting – supporting fathers in shaping brighter futures for their children