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about us 01 courses 04 destinations 12 accommodations 22 activities & excursions 27
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Mentoring students to reach their goals since 1986 The French language opens many doors in life and can be your route to a successful future. Whether you are learning for your education, your career or simply for an incredible life experience, we will make sure you reach your goals. With our professional guidance you can design the most personalised French language experience in Switzerland and we guarantee that through our wide range of language courses, friendly and professional teachers and social activities. On your course you will meet students from all over the world and have experiences you will never forget. Whether you stay with us for one week or one year, we will make sure you have the time of your life. Join the conversation with the SWISS FRENCH SCHOOL! 02
We are here for you Infinity learning Personalised experience: It is in the core of our DNA to make sure that we custom designed all aspects of your learning experience in Switzerland down to the smallest detail. Join the conversation Before and after learning solutions: Only we offer you the advantage to prepare for your langue experience and boost your confidence before your arrival and to retain and further develop all the skills that you have worked so hard for. Be ahead of the game and enjoy the benefits of our Swiss Distance Learning method. Learn in a small family atmosphere: We give you the attention you deserve and by creating the smallest classes in Switzerland we make sure that you can hear us and we can hear you. 03
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Intensity, flexibility & duration based on your needs Amongst our Intensive courses we guarantee that you will the one that is a perfect fit for your goals and needs. The Swiss French School offers you two different paths to success. The Flexible Intensive method is just the right choice if you need more freedom or you can select the Traditional intensive course if you like to study in small groups and experience the Swiss culture through our French in the City programmes. 06
French in the City (Montreux campus) The optimal choice if you want to improve your general linguistic communication skills, learn and experience Swiss culture and still have free time. Classes take place in the mornings, so that you can make the most of your time off in the afternoons and take part in the organised activities. Exercising your new language skills, the Swiss way! In-Class + You will have 4 lessons of 50 minutes each, every morning from Monday to Thursday. French In The City + Real-life situations allow for a more authentic language experience, that is why you will have excursions and social activities every Friday. + The class size is of maximum 8 students (unique in Switzerland), allowing the teacher to give you the attention you deserve! The Highlights + Levels from beginner (A1) to advanced (B2). + Duration from 2 to 48 Weeks. + 20 lessons per week (16 lessons in-class & 4 lessons "French in the City" in mini-groups of max 8 people). Start Dates + From January to December starting on specific dates. 07
Flexible Intensive Our Flexible Intensive model helps you to learn new concepts whenever you can and immediately practice those concepts in interactive activities. Then you consolidate it by applying them in real teacher-led conversation classes and workshops. This method is based on the approach of ongoing encouragement, motivation and guidance that you need to leap forward in a quick pace. We deliver a flexible course curriculum in live & online formats so you can do the learning part of your studies at your own speed, in your own time, outside the classroom. Then you can interact with your teacher in mini-classes or virtually (see Infinity Learning below) and practice what you learnt in live conversations and practical tasks. 3 Simple Advantages For You + You can make the most of your limited personal time + We ensure personalised attention through our expert teachers + Speak French faster with our method based on communication The Highlights Levels from beginner (A1) to advanced (B2) Duration from 2 to 24 Weeks 15 lessons per week (6 lessons in-class in mini-groups of max. 5 people & 9 lessons on Interactive Multimedia Platform) Start Dates January to December starting on specific dates (to see dates & availability in "request a quote"). 08
Maximum individual attention tailor-made to you Tailor-made to meet your individual objectives. With your private teacher, you will work specifically on the skills you wish to develop and progress according to your needs, at your own pace. Specific topics that can be covered includes culture, business, finance and healthcare, preparing you for situations you may encounter in your field of activity. This is the most flexible and personal course available, and the ultimate course for making maximum progress during a short period of time. The Highlights + Levels from beginner (A1) to advanced (C2) + Tailor-made duration + Intensity according to set objectives + Start dates from January to December. 09
Virtual Learning Solutions We are the only Swiss language school to offer you the advantage to prepare for your language experience already and boost your confidence before your arrival and to retain and further develop all the skills that you have worked so hard for after your stay in Switzerland. Be ahead of the game and enjoy the benefits of our Swiss Distance Learning method. 10
Young learners Intensity and duration based on your needs. The Young Learners programmes is aimed to help our students between the age of 7-16 to become better French speakers in an environment where lessons are fun, interactive and designed to be the most effective even in a short period of time. Groups & Schools Enjoy language learning with your school mates, family or friends. Should you be the family of 4 people or a high school excursion of 40 students, we can assist you to organise your trip to Switzerland. You will have a dedicated Swiss Host who will be you experienced language and cultural advisor to design the best academic and cultural programmes together with you. Companies & Executives Tailor-made company & career specific language solutions. Private or small-group language courses abroad for the busy executive, entirely customized to your industry or career. Our highly intensive private French course for executives provides you with your own personal language teacher whose sole mission is to help you reach your learning goals. 11
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Learn French at the Swiss Riviera in Montreux Montreux Riviera stretches along Lake Geneva from Lutry to Villeneuve. Blessed by a Mediterranean climate, this region features historic castles, vibrant towns, lovely countryside and charming hotels. Our school is in the middle of all this, located on the main street just next to the famous Fairmont Montreux Palace. 13
The highlights + Lavaux vineyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007, is the jewel of Montreux Riviera. Its terraced vines, dating from the 12th century, make up some of the loveliest countryside in Switzerland. Its wine-growing villages offer outstanding hospitality, especially in the vintners' cellars. + The majestic panorama at Rochers-de-Naye, the peaceful Grangettes nature reserve and the fields of blooming narcissus in May number among Montreux Riviera's many natural attractions. + Celebrities have always been captivated by this region's beauty. Stars flock to the Montreux Jazz Festival, whereas Chaplin preferred the tranquility of his manor house, now converted into a museum (opens in 2016). + The region's history comes to life inside the walls of Chillon Castle, where the secrets of an eventful mediaeval past are revealed; visitors can also relive the more recent Belle Epoque era on board a CGN (Lake Geneva General Navigation Company) steamer or at one of the luxurious hotels in Montreux or Vevey. 14
Learn French in the Olympic Capital hills, surrounded by vineyard-covered slopes, with Lake Geneva at its feet. Rising impressively from the opposing French lakeshore are the Savoy Alps. The attractive old town is largely car-free. Small alleyways with cafes and boutiques shape the streetscape in the medieval city centre. Lausanne, the second-largest city on Lake Geneva, combines a dynamic commercial town with the locality of a holiday resort. The capital of the canton of Vaud is also a lively university and convention town. Sports and culture are given a high profile in the Olympic capital. The setting of Lausanne is extremely picturesque: it is hardly surprising that the International Olympic Committee has been based here since 1914. The town is built on three Also worthy of a visit are the parks, containing many Mediterranean plant species, and grand palace hotels like the Beau-Rivage Palace in Ouchy and the Hotel de l'angleterre, were Lord Byron once stayed. Gourmets will be able to savour many regional specialities in Lausanne such as cabbage-filled sausage with leek gratin called "Papet Vaudois". Mind you, master chef Fredy Girardet who was voted «Cuisinier du siècle» or chef of the century by his colleagues has in the meantime retired and handed over his sceptre in the Hôtel de Ville to his successor. 15
The «Olympic capital» is home to the Olympic Committee and also the Olympic Museum, the world s largest information centre about the Olympic games. But sport in general is given a high profile here, examples of which are the «Lausanne Marathon» and «Athletissima», the international meeting for track and field athletics. The Highlights + Lausanne old town with cathedral the impressive cathedral is surrounded by beautiful, car-free roads. Since 1405 a watch in the clock tower makes sure there is no fire and shouts out the hours from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m + Olympic Museum provides an overview of the history of the Olympic games, from the first 1896 summer games in Athens through to the present day. + Lake Geneva cruise paddlewheel steamers and motor vessels highlight the attractions of the Lake Geneva region as seen from the water. + Musee de l Art brut a unique, worldwide collection of works of art created by outsiders in psychiatric clinics and prisons. + Fondation de l'hermitage the foundation presents changing art exhibitions of the highest calibre in a magnificent setting dating from the 19th century. + Train des vignes leisurely train journey onboard the «Train of Vines» from Vevey to Chexbres through the winegrowing region of the Lavaux, high above Lake Geneva. To read more about the city of Lausanne and the region please visit www.myswitzerland.com. 16
Learn French at the centre of world diplomacy Embedded between nearby Alpine peaks and the hilly terrain of the Jura, the French-speaking city of Geneva lies in the bay where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. With its humanitarian tradition and cosmopolitan flair, the European seat of the UNO and headquarters of the Red Cross is known as the "capital of peace". The symbol of the «world s smallest metropolis» is the Jet d eau a fountain with a 140-metre-high water jet at the periphery of Lake Geneva. Most of the large hotels and many restaurants are situated on the right-hand shore of the lake. The old town, the heart of Geneva with the shopping and business quarter, holds sway over the left-hand shore. It is dominated by St. Peter s Cathedral, however the actual centre of the old town is the Place du Bourg-de-Four, which is the oldest square in the city. Quays, lakeside promenades, countless parks, lively side streets in the old town and elegant shops invite guests to stroll. One of the best-maintained streets is the Grand-Rue, where Jean-Jacques Rousseau was born. The «mouettes», a type of water taxi, enable crossings to be made from one lakeshore to the other, while larger vessels invite visitors to enjoy cruises on Lake Geneva. 17
Geneva is Switzerland s most international city, as it is where the European seat of the UNO is based. Even the International Red Cross directs its humanitarian campaigns from here. Besides being a congress city, Geneva is also a centre for culture and history, for trade fairs and exhibitions. The «Horloge Fleuri», the large flower clock in the Jardin Anglais (English Garden), is a world-renowned symbol of the Geneva watch industry. The highlights + Jet d eau visible from afar, the 140-metre-high water jet is the landmark of Geneva. + St. Pierre Cathedral the north tower of the three-naved basilica in the old town of Geneva offers up an unique vista over the city and lake. + Palace of the United Nations on passing through the paled gate of the Palace of the UNO, visitors enter international territory. + International Museum of the Red Cross the birthplace of the International Red Cross houses the only museum dedicated to the history and work of this organisation. + Cruises on Lake Geneva from the cruise boats, visitors can marvel at the unique scenery of castles and magnificent residences set against wonderful landscape and mountain panoramas. To read more about the city of Geneva and the region please visit www.myswitzerland.com. 18
Learn French in the land of Swiss chocolate & cheese Drinking a cup of coffee in a leisurely fashion, admiring the old facades and beautiful fountains, listening to two local languages or gazing from the 74-meter spire of the Cathedral far into the countryside - this is an experience enjoyed in Fribourg (Freiburg). Freiburg, nestled on a rock promontory, is surrounded on three sides by the Saane River. It is one of the largest medieval towns in Üechtland. Over 200 unique Gothic facades from the 15th century impart incomparable medieval charm to the Old Town. Ramparts that are over two kilometers long used to protect the city in the past. Remnants of the walls, turrets and bastions are still preserved. Most impressive, however, is the Cathedral of Freiburg with its extraordinarily beautiful stained-glass windows. Construction started in 1283 and continued in several stages. Dedicated to St. Nicholas, it boasts a 74-meter-high tower that offers a fantastic panoramic view. 19
The Highlights + Fribourg Old Town gothic facades, pretty fountains, cosy cafés and inns, full of the charm of bygone days + Espace Jean Tinguely et Niki de Saint Phalle this museum is dedicated to the sculptor Jean Tinguely and his wife, the artist Niki de Saint Phalle + St. Nicolas Cathedral started according to German construction plans and finished to meet French wishes, with magnificent stained glass windows + Funicular of Fribourg the line was opened in 1899 and links the town centre to the Basse-Ville (the lower area of the town) + Gruyères/Greyerz not far from Fribourg is the village of Gruyères /Greyerz, where you can see the famous cheese of the same name being produced in a show cheesery + Murten this little medieval town on the south-east bank of Lake Murten has a complete town wall and a pleasant promenade beside the lake, where there is a wide range of water sports available To read more about the city of Fribourg and the region please visit www.myswitzerland.com. 20
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Living with locals By living with and become a member of a Swiss family you will experience maximum cultural exchange as well as learning becomes an organic process. Enjoy breakfast and dinner with your host family on weekdays, and all meals on the weekend. Cultural experience Learn more about the local culture and be exposed to a rich variety of cultural learning opportunities. Immerse yourself into the day-to-day family life by joining activities, holiday celebrations and of course the local cuisine. Speak French all the time Staying with a host family gives you the advantage speaking French at meals and on outings together over the weekends as well as to pick up everyday expressions and colloquialisms. 23
Stay with students & Be Independent + Be social! Get to know a lot of people in a short time. Meet interesting fellow students from countries all around the globe. Explore your destination with like-minded people and make friends for life! Live with other students from all over the world. Whether you would like to stay in a residence with other French learners or alone in an apartment, our range of accommodation options ensures that you find the perfect home away from home. Staying by yourself in an apartment or with other students sharing an apartment or in residence means you will have more freedom. It s the perfect choice if you enjoy your independence and privacy. + Be fun! Staying with other students means there s always someone for you to talk too. Our residences and apartment always have lively atmospheres suitable for anyone who loves socialising. + Be at the perfect location! The student residences our located in the town centres making it a convenient option to access public transport and a short straightforward for you to get to school. There are plenty of shopping areas, cafés and restaurants you can find nearby. 24
Hotel & VIP Services We have selected the best and highest quality hotels for you, from the small design boutique to the most luxurious,located in the CBD area of the city. 25
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Activities Get the best from your destination, hang out with your fellow students and make the most of your time. Every student of the Swiss French School, will be invited to a free welcome party and to enjoy a varied calendar of social and leisure activities throughout your stay. Some of the many activities available include: + Student Party - Free student party at the best clubs in town every month! + Dinner Club / Chocolate Club - Enjoy our free dinner & chocolate club every week + Pub Night - Enjoy a night out with students and staff + Day Trips - Visits the nearby cities and natural wonders 27
Be Active & Keep Healthy Play your favourite sports or try new ones. Our sports coordinators are always ready to assist you. Sailing, skiing, snowboarding, fitness, hiking, golf, tennis, rowing, fencing, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding and many more that out sport activity experts can organise for you. 28
Excursions All of our students Students who participate in our French in the City program can take full advantage of our weekly excursions to nearby attractions. These excursions are included in the standard package on our Montreux Campus and are day and half-day trips to historical, cultural and leisure spots in the Swiss Riviera region. + Chocolate Train - panoramic & historical train rides + The Queen Experience + Nestle chocolate factory experience + Alimentarium + Gruyer cheese factory experience + Musée Chaplin (The Modern Time Museum) + Chateau Chillon And much more... 29
We have selected the best events in town with you in mind and made sure that there is something for everybody here on the list. + Tour de Romandie UCI ProTour cycling race through western Switzerland; the most important preparatory race for the Giro d'italia (April/May) + Montreux Jazz Festival since its beginning in 1967 the festival has developed into a big event which frequently features the greatest jazz, blues, rock, world music and soul musicians (June/July) + Comedy-Festival the humour festival every year brings together the most famous comedians from the French-, German- and English-speaking areas (December) + Christmas Market one of Switzerland's famous Christmas Markets with numerous attractions and over one hundred decorated wooden houses brimming with gifts (December) + Béjart Ballet Lausanne Béjart settled in Lausanne in 1987 and founded the Béjart Ballet Lausanne a company of world-class repute (June and December) + Fête de Lausanne spirited town festival with the most diverse of attractions staged on many squares in the town (June) + Athletissima international, world-class track and field athletics meeting, held as part of the Golden League (July) + Jazzonze+ since its foundation, the Lausanne Jazz Festival has dedicated its programme to contemporary jazz (October) 30
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WEBSITE www.swissfrenchschool.ch EMAIL info.int@swissfrenchschool.ch telephone +41 (0) 21 963 49 32 skype theswissfrenchschool address Rue Igor-Stravinsky 4, 1820 Montreux, Switzerland 01