GIS The International School of Lugano opens in September 2025.
Quick summary of key school information
School details
Number of students |
100 |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
23 |
Most common nationality |
International + locals |
Ratio of local students to international students |
50% - 50% |
Native English and Italian speaking teachers |
Yes all english and italian native speakers |
Language support for students not fluent in English and Italian |
Yes |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
German |
Max. number of students per class |
20 |
Average number of students per class |
15 |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
Use of technology in the classroom |
At our school, technology is thoughtfully integrated into the classroom to enhance learning without replacing human connection or creativity. |
Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
Yes |
Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
No |
External examinations or assessments available |
Our students follow an international curriculum enriched with local requirements. In addition to our bilingual and inquiry-based program, students at GIS sit for the Italian national assessments known as “Prove INVALSI” in Grade 3 (terza primaria) and Grade 5 (quinta primaria). These exams evaluate competencies in Italian, mathematics, and English. This allows us to ensure that our students meet national benchmarks while also being prepared for a variety of international pathways, such as the IB and other globally recognized programs in the future. |
Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes |
Approximate hours of homework given |
Students receive homework once a week, and the amount of time needed to complete it depends on their age.
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Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
Our school will be open in september 2025, so we do not have graduation or higher education attendance data at this time. However, we are committed to preparing our students for successful entry into top higher education institutions worldwide once the school is fully operational. --- |
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes |
Learning support offered |
Our school is committed to providing inclusive education and support for students with special learning needs. We have specialized staff, including learning support teachers and counselors, who work closely with classroom teachers to tailor learning plans to each child’s unique needs. Our programs aim to ensure that every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally in a supportive environment. |
The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
Our school is dedicated to nurturing gifted, able, and talented students by providing differentiated learning opportunities that challenge and inspire them. We offer extension activities, project-based learning, and opportunities for deeper inquiry within the classroom. Additionally, we encourage participation in competitions, enrichment workshops, and collaboration with peers to foster their talents. Our teachers are trained to identify and support advanced learners, ensuring their intellectual and creative growth is fully supported. |
Student access to education psychologist |
Our school facilitates access to external educational psychologists when needed. We work closely with trusted professionals to provide assessments, support, and guidance for students requiring specialized assistance, ensuring families receive the help they need. |
Entry evaluation for students |
Yes, our school conducts evaluations prior to enrollment to better understand each student’s academic level and learning needs. These assessments help us tailor support and ensure a smooth transition into our programs. The process may include entrance exams, interviews, or screenings depending on the student’s age and grade level. |
Brief description of entry evaluation required |
We conduct age-appropriate evaluations before enrollment, including academic assessments, developmental screenings, interviews, and language proficiency tests when needed. This helps us understand each student’s needs and ensure the best placement. |
Waiting list |
Not this year 2025/2026 |
Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
The deadline for registration for the new academic year typically falls several months before the start of school, usually around late spring or early summer.This allows us to finalize class placements and prepare accordingly. |
Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes, our school allows students to join an academic year after it has started, subject to availability and assessment.We conduct evaluations to ensure the student is placed appropriately and can smoothly integrate into the ongoing curriculum. |
School start time |
Our school day typically starts at 8:15 AM it may vary slightly depending on the age group |
School finish time |
Our school day typically finishes at 3:45 PM, it may vary slightly depending on the age group. |
Supervised care before/after school |
Yes |
School bus service available |
Yes |
School provided lunches |
Yes |
Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes |
Uniform required |
Yes |
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Our school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs designed to enrich students’ learning experiences and foster their passions. These include sports like boxing, tennis, swimming, multisports ; creative arts such as music, drama, and visual arts; academic clubs like robotics and language clubs; We encourage students to explore new interests and develop skills beyond the classroom in a supportive environment. |
Sports activities included |
Physical education is an integral part of our curriculum, aimed at promoting health, teamwork, and motor skills development. Students participate in a variety of activities such as gymnastics, swimming, athletics and yoga. These activities are tailored to different age groups to ensure appropriate physical challenge and enjoyment. We also encourage participation in inter-school sports events and tournaments to foster sportsmanship and community spirit. |
Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
We plan to start participating in interschool competitions once our sports teams are fully formed and ready, which will be soon after the school opens. |
Facilities at the school |
Our school offers a range of facilities designed to enrich students’ learning and personal growth beyond sports. These include a well-stocked library, dedicated science and technology labs, creative arts studios for music and visual arts, and flexible learning spaces that support collaboration and innovation. Additionally, we have access to an external theater for larger performances and community events. |
Sports facilities at the school |
Our school features an outdoor sports facilities to support physical education and extracurricular activities. These include an outdoor playing fields, a football court, and access to an external swimming pool. |
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
GIS The International School of Lugano offers a comprehensive bilingual education to children from preschool through secondary school, welcoming both international and local families who seek a high-quality, modern international education in English and Italian. GIS Lugano adheres to the established GIS educational approach based on the IB curriculum merged with a strong emphasis on Swiss culture and the educational standards of the Canton of Ticino. GIS Lugano offers a multilingual learning environment that fosters curiosity and a love for learning. |
Teaching approach of the school |
GIS Lugano believes that education is not just about academic achievement—it’s about shaping well-rounded individuals who understand the world and their place within it. GIS Lugano is a community that values both global perspectives and local connections, fostering an environment where students feel a deep sense of belonging. |