Starting a new school year is an exciting time, but it also brings significant changes for students and parents alike. Earlier bedtimes, busier timetables, different social environments, and even different languages are just some of the realities children encounter as they return to school. For students joining a new school, this transition can feel particularly challenging. At Collège Champittet, the school does everything possible to help learners feel at ease from the very beginning so they can approach the new school year with confidence.
In mid-August, Collège Champittet hosted its annual Welcome Day for families joining the school. The event welcomed new students from 21 nationalities, reflecting the rich diversity and international spirit of the campus. Families had the opportunity to become acquainted with the campus and community through presentations by the Head of School, Deans, Parent Association representatives, and alumni. From practical information such as uniforms and transportation to the wide range of opportunities available, including extracurricular activities, private music lessons, and the Collège Champittet Foundation, Welcome Day ensured that students and parents alike felt supported and ready for the year ahead.
For new boarding students, the uncertainty surrounding a new school year can be even more intense. At 瑞士尚贝缇国际学校, a three-day onboarding programme helps new boarders adapt to their new home away from home before classes begin. Students meet their house parents, settle into their dorm rooms, discover Lausanne, and learn how to navigate the city using public transport. The pre-term orientation also gives boarders a chance to bond with their peers as they explore their new surroundings. This year, students enjoyed a boat trip on Lake Geneva with lunch in Montreux, an excursion to the beautiful French town of Annecy, and a treasure hunt through Lausanne, providing the perfect prelude to a new school year.
From the outdoor Forest School to modern science labs and music studios, the learning environment at Collège Champittet is designed to help students build confidence throughout the school year. Set within spacious, leafy grounds on the shores of Lake Geneva, the school offers an inspiring setting where students can learn, grow, and explore. The Forest School programme fosters curiosity and reflection while encouraging children to develop a close connection with nature.
The school believes that students learn best when they feel happy and supported, which is why it strives to make every child feel that they belong. Pastoral care, chaplaincy, and a close-knit community are in place to support learners from day one and at every step of their journey.
For parents whose child is joining a new school this year, there are several things they can do to make the transition more comfortable. A guide for helping children settle into a new school covers what families should expect and what parents can do to prepare their child for a smooth transition. This resource offers practical advice on managing change, building routines, and supporting emotional well-being during the first weeks of school.
By combining a warm welcome, structured onboarding for boarders, an inspiring campus, and strong pastoral support, Collège Champittet creates an environment where students can begin the academic year with confidence and a sense of belonging.
