Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The answers you need
General Questions
1. How do I apply for a school spot?
To apply, visit our website and click the registration button on the homepage. Follow the instructions to complete the process. All necessary steps and information are provided there.
2. Is it possible to join mid-school year?
Yes, admission during the school year is possible if spaces are available. Please contact us directly to confirm availability and discuss details.
3. Is financial support available?
As a newly established school, we are working on providing financial aid in the future. At the moment, we do not offer financial support but plan to implement it soon.
4. How does the school prepare students for transitions, such as moving to public schools?
We conduct developmental meetings to help students prepare for transitions. We focus on equipping them with the necessary skills to confidently adapt to new environments.
5. Are there sports or extracurricular activities?
Yes, we offer after-school activities in sports, arts, and culture, held in nearby facilities to give students additional opportunities to explore their interests.
6. Does the school have a kitchen or a catering service?
We have our own kitchen where meals are freshly prepared. We emphasize balanced, healthy meals, following a structured nutrition plan.
7. What languages are taught in the classroom?
We provide bilingual education in English and German, with each teacher speaking their native language, allowing children to become fluent in both.
8. How does Tesoro Montessori differ from other Montessori schools?
Our unique approach includes bilingual education, flexible vacation planning, a focus on individual growth, and hands-on learning. We also integrate modern technology and maintain close parent collaboration.
9. Is Tesoro Montessori School accredited?
Yes, our school is officially accredited and meets Swiss educational standards. We are also licensed by the AMI (Association Montessori Internationale).
10. How long does the application process take?
The application process usually takes 4 to 6 weeks, depending on availability. Please contact our administration for the most up-to-date information.
11. Is there a waiting list?
Yes, if spots are full, we maintain a waiting list. Families are contacted in the order they signed up once a place becomes available.
Parents
1. How can parents participate in school life?
Parents can engage by attending regular events and meetings, volunteering for class projects, and joining excursions. We also offer specific parent-child activities.
2. Are there opportunities for parent-child activities?
Yes, we regularly host activities where parents can participate with their children, such as forest projects and other collaborative events.
3. Are there regular parent-teacher meetings?
Yes, we hold bi-annual development meetings to discuss your child's progress and next steps.
4. Is there a sibling discount?
We currently offer a 10% discount for the second child and 20% for the third.
5. How can parents give feedback to the school?
We welcome feedback via our parent portal, development meetings, contact form, or email. Parent input helps us continuously improve.
6. What support is provided for parents in raising their children?
We offer regular workshops and informational sessions covering various parenting topics to provide practical guidance.
School Life
1. What are the school's attendance rules?
We close for 3 weeks during Christmas and summer. Families can choose up to 7 additional weeks of vacation without extra costs.
2. How does the school ensure the curriculum is covered?
We follow the Swiss "Lehrplan 21" and use personalized development plans to ensure all educational goals are met.
3. What happens if a child doesn’t want to learn?
We focus on individual needs and work with the child to inspire motivation and interest without pressure.
4. Are there no rules?
We have clear rules to ensure a respectful, safe learning environment, fostering responsibility and self-discipline.
5. Doesn’t the child need some pressure to learn?
Our approach promotes learning in a supportive environment that encourages curiosity and passion for knowledge, avoiding unnecessary pressure.
6. What happens when a child leaves the school at age 12?
We thoroughly prepare students for transitions to secondary schools, including exams for Gymnasium or other pathways.
7. How does the school support children with special needs?
We collaborate with specialists to provide individualized support and accommodations for children with special needs.
8. What if my child is sick or absent?
Please notify our administration via email or phone in case of illness or absence. For extended absences, we work with families to help children catch up.
Teachers
1. What qualifications do the teachers have?
Our teachers are highly experienced, holding both Swiss qualifications and Montessori diplomas. They are trained to implement Montessori pedagogy effectively.
2. How is communication between teachers, parents, and students handled?
We use regular development meetings, our parent portal, and the “Transparent Classroom” app to ensure transparent, efficient communication.
3. How often do teachers undergo professional development?
Our teachers participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with Montessori practices, through both internal and external training programs.
4. How are new teachers integrated into the team?
New teachers undergo comprehensive onboarding, including Montessori training and mentorship with experienced staff members.