In the picturesque Swiss Alps, the Leysin American School has become a breeding ground for innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, largely thanks to the transformative work of faculty member Can Gidding '95. Gidding, an alumnus of the institution he now serves, has pioneered an educational approach where every classroom becomes an entrepreneurship laboratory. His philosophy—"All my classes are entrepreneurship classes"—reflects a pedagogical commitment that transcends traditional subject boundaries. This innovative methodology has proven remarkably successful, with over 100 students currently engaged in business and innovation courses across the curriculum. The impact extends beyond mere enrollment numbers; Gidding has cultivated an environment where the entrepreneurial mindset spreads organically among the student body, creating what he describes as a movement "catching like fire." This educational transformation at LAS represents a significant shift from conventional teaching methods to an experiential, project-based approach that prepares students for real-world challenges. The school's unique location in Leysin provides an ideal backdrop for this educational revolution, combining international perspectives with practical business applications. Gidding's work demonstrates how educational institutions can evolve to meet the demands of the 21st-century economy while maintaining academic rigor and intellectual curiosity. The success of this initiative at the Leysin American School serves as a model for other international schools seeking to integrate entrepreneurship into their core curriculum.
Can Gidding's journey to becoming a transformative educator at the Leysin American School is a story of professional reinvention and personal growth. Before finding his true calling in the classroom, Gidding experienced multiple career transitions, each contributing to the unique perspective he brings to his students. This diverse background enables him to connect theoretical concepts with practical business applications, making his teaching particularly relevant and impactful. The l'innovation classes he has developed at LAS go beyond traditional business education, incorporating elements of design thinking, risk assessment, and market analysis that prepare students for the complexities of the global economy. What makes Gidding's approach particularly effective is his ability to create authentic learning experiences that mirror real entrepreneurial challenges. Students don't just learn about business—they create business plans, develop products, and engage with market realities. This hands-on methodology has transformed the educational experience at the Leysin American School, making it a destination for students seeking practical, career-focused education. The school's commitment to innovation, embodied by faculty members like Gidding, positions LAS as a leader in international education that balances academic excellence with practical skill development. The growing enrollment in these programs indicates both student enthusiasm and the program's effectiveness in meeting contemporary educational needs.
