The Best Schools in Bern

If you are settling in Bern or the surrounding area, you may be wondering which school is the right choice for your family. Although smaller than Zurich or Geneva, Bern offers a wide range of strong options, from the well-regarded public system in Swiss German to international schools with globally recognised curricula. In this historic and internationally minded city, you can choose between the Swiss Maturité pathway, the IB and other portable programmes, as well as bilingual English-German models. Here, we will guide you through the options and help you find the school that best fits your child’s needs and your family’s long-term plans.

Summary

The best international schools in Bern

Despite being the capital, Bern is a compact city in beautiful surroundings with its winding Aare River and the charm of the UNESCO-listed old town. It may be smaller than both Geneva and Zurich, but this means it’s easier to get around and get to know. Travel opportunities abound, as Bern is in the centre of Switzerland and has France and Germany on its doorstep. Bern’s strong expat community also shapes school demand, with around one-third of residents coming from abroad. Many work in international organisations or the growing tech sector, creating a welcoming expat community for globally minded families. 

Finding the right school is one of the priorities when settling in and when it comes to education there is no shortage of high quality international schools to choose from. Many parents ask, what is the best school in Bern? In this guide we help you find the answer, considering the public system and international options.

How do families choose the best Bern school for their child?

Bern offers a wide choice of schools, from free, high-quality public education to private and international options that follow global programmes such as the IB, IGCSEs, and French Baccalauréat. Language of instruction is an important criterion for parents’ decisions. Some families prefer full immersion in German or French, while others choose English or bilingual programmes. 

Public schools in Bern offer free, high-quality education in Swiss German, adding French and English early, and offering support to students learning the language. However the programme is unique to German-speaking Switzerland, which may present complications for mobile families. So, for families planning to stay long term, Bern’s public schools offer excellent, free education.

However, families seeking flexibility or easier mobility often prefer international schools. Private schools provide a more “portable” international approach, combining bilingual or multilingual instruction with programmes such as the IB, IGCSEs, A Levels or the French Baccalauréat. Smaller classes and personalised teaching nurture creativity, critical thinking, and cultural awareness for both local and global opportunities.

Beyond academics, families also value cultural fit and well-being. Many schools in Bern focus on outdoor learning, pastoral care, and a welcoming community that reflects the city’s calm, family-oriented lifestyle. To get a real feel for the best option for your family, we recommend attending “taster days” to visit schools, meet teachers, and see where your child feels most at home.

Practical considerations for choosing a school in Bern

Smaller than Zurich or Geneva, Bern is easy to explore, safe, and very family-friendly. Location still matters when choosing a school, and neighbourhoods like Kirchenfeld to the south and Breitenrain-Lorraine to the north are popular for their proximity to good schools, green spaces, and attractions like the Bern Zoo, Rosengarten and Bear park – the bear being the beloved symbol of the canton.

Nearby towns like Muri bei Bern to the east also provide family-friendly communities with quick access to the city. The schools in this area, such as the International School of Berne and the British School Bern are both well connected by public transport. Burgdorf, while a little further out from Bern, has an excellent rail connection and, if you’re looking for more space, larger homes are more affordable.

Rush-hour traffic is usually manageable, though the Kirchenfeld and Monbijou bridges, the A1 junctions, and the Bern-Wankdorf area can get busy. Most families use the city’s reliable trams, buses, and trains for easy commutes. 

This guide to Bern schools helps families find the best fit for their child. It also includes insights into family life in Bern to help make your decision and transition a little easier and more informed.

Schools

Articles

This section brings together articles about education and life in Bern. From finding the best schools to learning everyday tips for settling into Switzerland’s capital, it offers practical guidance and expert insights for families and newcomers.