Compare International Schools in Montreux, Switzerland

Le Châtelard Academy

Instructs in French

Ages 13 - 18 years

Fees CHF 62,400 - 73,800

Type Girls School (boarding)

Le Châtelard Academy is a private Catholic boarding school for girls aged 13 to 18, located at 80 Route des Narcisses, Les Avants, Switzerland, a campus nestled between Lake Geneva and the Alps. The school delivers a bespoke curriculum taught entirely in French, aligned with Swiss standards and the Academy's network, and emphasizes university preparation by developing critical thinking and effective study skills. Language study is integrated, with English to Cambridge First Certificate level and French preparation for the DELF, many students achieving B1 or B2 by year end. Distinctive On-campus electives include Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts, and the school offers Le Châtelard Diploma, Savoir-Vivre Diploma, and the Diplôme de Cuisine. The 4-hectare park setting supports sports and activities, with facilities including a library, language-learning labs, a theatre, a chapel, art studios, a gym, and courts for tennis and basketball. Programs include Ski Adventures on slopes and Savoir-Vivre ethos.

Location

Located in Switzerland, Le Châtelard is in Les Avants-Sur-Montreux. The address is 80 Route des Narcisses, 1833 Les Avants-Sur-Montreux, Switzerland. The campus is a Belle Époque building transformed into a modern boarding school with en-suite rooms, sport and fitness areas, a Cordon Bleu kitchen room, theatre, and chapel. Nestled between the Alps and Lake Geneva, Le Châtelard is a private Catholic international boarding school for girls aged 13 to 18.

Stages

Junior High School; High School (Junior High School ages 13-15; High School ages 16-18).

Type

Private, Catholic, international boarding school.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Diverse international student body with students from around the world; initially most were Mexican.

Additional learning support

Personalized guidance and mentorship supports academic, emotional, and personal growth.

Country affiliation

Switzerland

Religious affiliation

Catholic

School day structure

A dynamic and demanding daily schedule with time for spiritual, intellectual, social and cultural development as well as recreation and rest.

Application / Enrollment Fees
- Summer courses: an enrollment/booking fee is required to confirm a place. Example amounts and terms published for recent summer courses include 600 USD payable to OAK International (enrollment fee) and a 1,000 CHF booking fee for 4‑week summer courses; these booking/enrollment payments are described as non‑refundable and non‑transferable.

Tuition and boarding (by year group and term)
- Junior High School (Grades 8–9, ages 13–15) — tuition & boarding (combined):
- Annual (full academic year): CHF 62,400.
- Autumn term: CHF 33,500.
- Spring term: CHF 40,100.
- Clinics base charge (annual / term split shown in published schedules): CHF 5,800 (year) / CHF 3,000 (autumn) / CHF 3,700 (spring).
- Excursions / transport allowances (additional mandatory excursion charges shown): CHF 14,500 (year) / CHF 9,900 (autumn) / CHF 9,900 (spring).

- High School (Grades 10–11, ages 15–17) — tuition & boarding (combined):
- Annual (full academic year): CHF 73,800.
- Autumn term: CHF 42,800.
- Spring term: CHF 49,200.
- Clinics base charge (annual / term split): CHF 8,200 (year) / CHF 4,600 (autumn) / CHF 5,700 (spring).
- Excursions / transport allowances: CHF 14,000 (year) / CHF 8,600 (autumn) / CHF 8,500 (spring).

- Note: the figures above are published as "Tuition & Boarding" amounts (that is, the tuition component and boarding (accommodation/food) are combined into the listed totals).

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Term structure and term dates are published with each academic offering; the school issues charges aligned to the annual / autumn / spring course structure and to the summer course calendars. Specific term start and end dates accompany the tuition amounts in the published schedules.
- Students have a school personal account for variable charges (pocket money, optional activities, exam fees). The school provides recommended personal‑account deposit amounts and a month‑by‑month schedule for deductions (many standard items are charged in September and across the year as listed). Examples of when personal‑account items are deducted are stated in the school's student personal‑account guidance.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is included in the combined "Tuition & Boarding" figures for the Junior High and High School annual and term rates quoted above. The published figures are therefore the total fee for tuition plus boarding.

Other costs and typical additional fees
- Personal‑account (recommended advance for the year): High School example recommended deposit CHF 6,745 (estimate to cover general expenses). Typical general items and approximate amounts charged to the personal account include:
- School material: CHF 265 (charged in September).
- Uniform (initial kit): CHF 590 (charged in September).
- Pocket money (recommended estimate): CHF 4,000 (paid in regular instalments during the year).
- Medical follow‑up: CHF 200 (charged in September).
- Swiss student permit / residency paperwork: CHF 300 (charged in September).
- IT fees: CHF 250 (charged in September).
- Generation weekend, human‑formation courses, pilgrimage or mission trip contributions and exam fees are charged in the months indicated in the personal‑account schedule (examples: Generation weekend CHF 1,350 in September; DELF exam session fees range by session CHF 150–300; Cambridge First Certificate CHF 450).
- Summer course additional charges: published summer course packages include separate tuition & boarding lines and trip-specific supplements (for example, summer course tuition & boarding examples: CHF 8,850 for a 4‑week summer camp in 2025 and CHF 8,200 for a 4‑week summer camp in 2026 in the published materials) and trip supplements such as Zermatt or Strasbourg excursions where shown. A recommended personal‑account amount for camps is typically requested (example CHF 1,000).

Uniform and kit
- Initial uniform kit charge example: CHF 590 (charged in September for High School students as a standard personal‑account charge). Additional replacement uniform items are charged separately through the student account.

Refund information
- Booking/enrollment fees for summer courses are described as non‑refundable and non‑transferable in the published summer course booking terms.
- Refunds or cancellations for other fees (academic tuition, term balances, deposits) are handled according to the school's published terms and financial conditions for each course; specific refund/cancellation provisions and any deadlines tied to refunds are published alongside the fee schedules and the relevant course terms.

Fee payment options and account details
- The school accepts bank transfers to its UBS accounts (IBAN and SWIFT provided in the school's payment instructions). Example payment details published for school and personal‑account transfers include:
- Beneficiary name for school payments: Institut Le Châtelard / Institut Le Châtelard Les Avants SA.
- IBAN for personal‑account transfers (example listed): CH26 0024 9249 G550 34231; SWIFT/BIC: UBSWCHZH80A.
- Some third‑party partners (for example OAK International when registering for a summer course) require enrollment fees payable to the partner in USD; those partner charges follow the partner's payment instructions.
- The school operates a student private account (UBS) with Maestro card issuance for withdrawals and payments from that private account; the private‑account mechanism is used to manage pocket money and incidental charges. Example card and withdrawal details are described in the student personal‑account guidance.

Practical notes for budgeting
- The published tuition lines for each course explicitly state "Tuition & Boarding" and show separate additional charges for clinics, excursions and personal‑account items; those additional lines should be included in a family budget when planning total cost of attendance.

(End of fees overview.)

Boarding Arrangements

International boarding for girls aged 13 to 18; students live in shared bedrooms.

Uniform Requirement

Uniform provided by the School.

Food Options

Meals served in the dining room. Attendance to breakfast and lunch is compulsory; supper is optional; attendance to lunch on Saturdays and Sundays is optional. A Cordon Bleu Chef prepares menus. No special diets except for food allergies with medical prescription; if the diet is not followed for several days, the kitchen reverts to the ordinary menu.

Governance and Ownership

Owned by Oak International; private Catholic international boarding school.

Curriculum

Le Châtelard offers a competitive and challenging curriculum based on Switzerland's learning standards and the Academy's network. All subjects are taught in French. The program emphasizes preparation for university and the development of the skills and habits needed for higher learning, including critical thinking and effective study skills. Language study is integrated, with French and English offerings and preparation for international certifications such as DELF and Cambridge First Certificate in English. The curriculum covers core disciplines (Biology, Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry, History and Geography) and includes Savoir-Vivre and languages, with on-campus electives such as Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts. Diplomas and Certificates include Cambridge First Certificate in English, DELF (with 100% of students reaching B1/B2), Le Châtelard Diploma, Savoir-Vivre Diploma, and the Cordon Bleu Home Culinary Certificate.

Higher Education Progression

As a solid academic preparation for university, the Academy consistently promotes the development of a set of skills and habits necessary to tackle higher learning.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Integral formation develops social and emotional competencies. Savoir Vivre sessions build self-image and self-esteem, and teach courtesy and social conduct. Students participate in community service with the elderly, the sick, and the disadvantaged, fostering empathy and social responsibility. The formation program emphasizes maturity, prudent decision-making, and balanced character through moral values.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

French is the language of instruction for all subjects. English is taught as a language option; English courses prepare students for the Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE), developing reading, speaking, writing, and listening skills at an upper-intermediate level (B2).

Mental Wellbeing

Pastoral care is provided by staff including a School Chaplain and a Head of Pastoral; Spiritual Guidance and Savoir Vivre are part of the formation program, supporting students' well-being and personal development.

Safeguarding

The Child Safeguarding and Protection Policy establishes a code of conduct for all staff interacting with minors, a clear reporting procedure, safeguarding training for personnel, risk assessments, and an oversight structure (Child Protection Committee) to ensure a safe environment.

History

Le Châtelard is a private Catholic international boarding school for girls aged 13 to 18. Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, between the Alps and Lake Geneva, Le Châtelard offers an inspiring environment where academic excellence, cultural refinement, and personal growth come together. The building's history begins in the late 1800s, serving as a Grand Hotel and later other purposes before Le Châtelard was established. Oak International bought the building in 1992 and founded Le Châtelard Academy, a boarding school teaching human values and French to girls, with the first generation in the Class of 1992-93. The school celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2022. The address is 80 Route des Narcisses, 1833 Les Avants-Sur-Montreux, Suisse.

Community

Le Châtelard runs a dynamic program of community activities including clinics, Savoir-Vivre courses, and cultural trips as part of its Le Châtelard Experience. Family involvement is encouraged through events such as Parents' Encounter and Parents' Week. The Le Châtelard Experience emphasizes integral formation, with activities like trips and outings, a Summer Camp, and a photo and video gallery of events. Through full French immersion, the school builds a strong academic foundation and offers B1 or B2 diplomas, complemented by the Savoir Vivre program and a partnership with Le Cordon Bleu for cuisine education.

Facilities Overview

Nestled between Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps, Le Châtelard sits in a valley with a 4-hectare park at 1,000 meters altitude. It was built as an elegant Belle Époque hotel and retains historic character. The centre was equipped with modern facilities in 1992, including living rooms, a cafeteria, a games room, dining rooms, a theatre and a chapel. Students have well-lit classrooms, a library, a computer room with language-learning PCs, painting and ceramics workshops, and spaces for cooking and photography. The campus includes an aerobics gym, a fitness centre, a gymnasium and a sauna, with three tennis courts and a basketball court on-site; additional sports facilities are available outside the school.

Sports Facilities

On-site facilities include an aerobics gym, a fitness centre, a gymnasium and a sauna. The school grounds offer three tennis courts and a basketball court. Other sports facilities outside the school are available to students.

Academic Facilities

Well-lit classrooms are provided for study. There is a library and a computer room. Language-learning PC systems, painting and ceramics workshops, and facilities for cooking and photography are available.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Ski Adventures program invites students to explore world-class slopes. Through full French immersion, students build a strong academic foundation and earn internationally recognized B1 or B2 diplomas. Our Savoir Vivre program, the art of living, fosters self-confidence, emotional intelligence, and refinement. In partnership with Le Cordon Bleu, students master the art of French cuisine and earn the Diplôme de Cuisine.

Academic & Intellectual

All subjects are taught in French. The program develops the student's intellectual faculties and teaches them to think clearly, reflect, and study effectively. English is taught to Cambridge First Certificate (FCE) level, while French is prepared for the DELF, with many students reaching B1 or B2 by year end. The History curriculum covers World War I and the Russian Revolution, World War II and European dictatorships, and the Cold War, fostering critical analysis of global events.

Arts & Creative

Music lessons include piano instruction and musical appreciation across major periods. Arts and Graphics introduce a range of techniques, from colour theory and composition to perspective and drawing. A wide range of clinics is offered, including photography, flower arrangement, and theatre.

Cultural & Language

Young ladies from around the world study while immersing themselves in European culture and etiquette. They live and learn entirely in French. Each week, Savoir Vivre sessions and community service with the elderly, the sick, and the disadvantaged shape character. They also learn from Le Cordon Bleu chefs.

Social & Hobbies

On campus, students can choose from a broad range of elective courses and activities including flower arranging, pottery, basketball, kickboxing, Zumba, photography, makeup, tennis, hip-hop dance, and other dance forms. Off campus, options include alpinism, ice skating, swimming, and horseback riding. Elective courses run two weekly sessions in the first and third terms and one weekly session during the ski season.

Community & Service

Each week, students participate in Savoir Vivre sessions and engage in community service with the elderly, the sick, and the disadvantaged. These experiences shape heart and character. The emphasis on service is part of the school's integral formation.

Leadership & Professional

Le Châtelard cultivates leadership and a global mindset through its international environment. The program fosters confidence, prudent decision-making, and leadership as part of its integral formation. These experiences support students in developing leadership and collaboration skills for life beyond school.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Sports and artistic courses promote growth, health, and well-being. Students participate in world-class clinics, up to two per week, with clinics rotating by season. From January to March, the ski season offers weekend skiing across the Swiss Alps.

Admissions

1. Submit the complete admissions form on the Admissions page by providing your contact details. The admissions process begins with this submission; the academy reviews the information and aims to respond within 15 business days by email. If email is not possible, the response will be sent through the promoter. 2. If accepted, pay the Booking Fee within eight business days after receiving the formal acceptance letter. The booking fee reserves and guarantees the student's place and is deducted from the first tuition payment according to the chosen payment plan. The booking fee is non-refundable. 3. Tuition payments and personal accounts: Payments should be made to Oak Management, Ltd, and deposits to the student's personal account should be made to the academy's account. Parents must identify these accounts beforehand; if a payment is made to the wrong account, Oak International will reassign the payment but a fee will be deducted from the student's account. 4. Waiting list: Late admission forms are subjected to an indefinite waiting process and raffle selection, and are also subject to the availability of space per grade and the freeing up of spaces through cancellations. 5. Confirmation: The academies reserve the right to notify parents of the acceptance or rejection of admissions requests. The academies use email as the official means of communication; ensure contact details on admission forms (fax/telephone) are correct. 6. Applicants for 9th grade: Applicants for this grade face more rigorous selection. Applicants must include with the application the written testimony of a Legionary or consecrated woman of Regnum Christi who is authorized to make such statements.

Waitlist

Waiting lists exist. Late admission forms are subjected to an indefinite waiting process and raffle selection, depending on the availability of spaces per grade and the freeing up of spaces through cancellations.

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Montreux International School

Fees CHF 25,000 - 67,000

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Application & enrolment fees

- Application fee: CHF 200 (non‑refundable).
- Enrolment/administration fee (one‑off, first year): CHF 1,500 (non‑refundable).

Tuition fees (per term and per year)

- Program scope: International Baccalaureate Career‑related Programme (IBCP) for ages 16–19 (Business & Hospitality; Business & Digital Marketing). Annual and per‑term fees below apply to these IBCP programmes.

- Day student (IBCP): Term 1 CHF 8,334; Term 2 CHF 8,333; Term 3 CHF 8,333 — Annual total CHF 25,000. Fees are stated per academic year.

- Full boarding (IBCP): Term 1 CHF 22,334; Term 2 CHF 22,333; Term 3 CHF 22,333 — Annual total CHF 67,000. Flexible boarding options may be offered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Tuition billing: Fees are invoiced and payable across three terms, in advance, before the beginning of each term. Payment plans are available on request.
- Collateral and deposits: A collateral amount of 30% of tuition is deducted from the total tuition (as stated in the published admissions/fee notes). A re‑registration deposit of up to 10% may be required and is deducted from the total tuition. A medical/expense deposit is collected and is refundable if not used within one year after leaving.

Boarding fees and what they include

- Boarding charge (annual figures shown above) covers boarding accommodation and meals. Boarding students receive food seven days a week (breakfast, lunch and dinner) as part of the boarding fee. Day students may purchase meals (breakfast/dinner) at extra cost.

Other costs and typical additional charges

- Examination / external exam fees: up to approximately CHF 1,000 per student for external examinations (variable by subject/exam).
- Special dietary requirements: additional charges may apply for specific dietary requests.
- Student insurance, visa processing fees, optional excursions and airport transfers are charged extra where applicable.
- Uniforms: uniform items are issued at the start of the year; extra blazers and additional uniform items are available at additional cost.
- Sibling discount: 5% for the second child and 10% for the third child while all are enrolled (not cumulative with other offers). Other scholarships or discounts may be published for specific cohorts.

Refunds and cancellation terms

- Cancellation (refund) schedule for term fees (published sliding scale based on notice period before term start):
- 31 days or more before the term begins: 10% of overall fee retained (i.e., 90% refundable).
- 30 to 22 days before the term begins: 35% of overall fee retained.
- 21 to 15 days before the term begins: 40% of overall fee retained.
- 14 to 8 days before the term begins: 50% of overall fee retained.
- 7 to 0 days before the term begins, or non‑appearance (no‑show): 60% of overall fee retained.
- Other deposits (for example medical deposits) are refundable if not used, subject to the published timing and conditions.

Fee payment options

- Published fee summaries state that fees are payable per term and that payment plans can be arranged on request; the public fee summaries do not specify a definitive list of accepted payment channels (for example bank transfer, credit card or other) within the fee schedule itself. Invoices supply the school's payment instructions and the available payment options.

Notes for budgeting

- The amounts above are stated in Swiss francs (CHF) and are presented as per‑term and annual totals for the IBCP programmes as published in the school's public fee summaries and third‑party school directory summaries. Parents should allow additional budget for examination fees, insurance, travel, optional trips and any special dietary or uniform requirements.