Frequently Asked Questions.
Educational Approach & Languages
Q: What is the Swedish educational approach at SISOG?
The Swedish approach is student-centered, focusing on fostering curiosity and a genuine love of learning. We use the "red thread" (röd tråd) concept to connect all subjects and learning themes cohesively throughout the curriculum.
Q: What are SISOG's core values?
Our five core values are Equality, Empathy, Love of Learning, Community, and Commitment.
Q: Is SISOG only for Swedish families, and do students need to know Swedish?
No, SISOG is open to everyone! We have a diverse, international student body and welcome families from all linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
Q: What languages are spoken at SISOG?
We offer instruction in English, Swedish, and French to meet our students' diverse needs.
Q: How does SISOG's bilingual program work?
We offer bilingual programs in Swedish-French or English-French. Each class is supported by two native-speaking teachers who follow the "one teacher, one language" principle.
Q: What happens if my child enters the school with zero knowledge of French, English, or Swedish?
While children in our Swedish-French stream typically speak Swedish at home, students joining our English-French track are not expected to know either language beforehand. Our native-speaking teachers are deeply experienced in supporting both native speakers and language learners through full, natural immersion. Using visual context, small-group interaction, and gentle guidance, children quickly absorb new languages in a warm, welcoming environment without feeling overwhelmed.
Academics & Pedagogy
Q: What does a typical daily schedule look like for Primary students?
A typical day balances structured, teacher-led learning with plenty of space for child-led exploration and movement. Core academics, language immersion, and integrated project work are guided by our native-speaking teachers. Throughout the day, children enjoy generous outdoor time, pedagogical meals shared with their teachers, and self-directed time to follow their curiosity, collaborate with peers, and build independent problem-solving skills.
Q: What does "multi-age classes" mean in Primary?
Multi-age classes bring together children of flexible, adjacent age groups (such as 1P–2P, 3P–4P, etc.) in the same learning environment. Rooted in the Swedish educational approach, this structure allows children to learn at their own developmental pace without the pressure of rigid grade levels.
Q: How do you assess student progress without traditional heavy testing?
Because of our small class sizes, assessment at SISOG is continuous, personal, and low-stress rather than based on heavy, high-stakes testing. Teachers closely monitor each child's daily progress through ongoing observation, individual learning portfolios, and regular feedback. This ongoing evaluation allows us to benchmark students against official curriculum standards while fostering a joyful, supportive environment where children take pride in their growth.
Q: How much time do children spend outdoors each day?
In alignment with Swedish culture, our students spend time outside every single day, regardless of the weather. Depending on their age group, children enjoy between 1.5 to 3+ hours outdoors daily across morning and afternoon recess, guided outdoor learning, and outdoor Physical Education / Gross Motor activities. Weekly forest mornings for Pre-Primary & Preschool or monthly forest days for Primary are also integrated into the schedule.
Q: Will my child be prepared for a local or international school after SISOG?
Yes. Our curriculum prepares students for the Épreuves Cantonales as well as Swedish national tests, ensuring a smooth academic transition to other local or international schools.
Admissions & Student Support
Q: How do we apply to SISOG?
The process is straightforward. We accept applications year-round and encourage you to book a visit to our campus or connect with us virtually.
Q: Do you accept mid-year enrollments for families relocating to the region?
Yes! We accept new children throughout the entire school year to accommodate relocating families.
Q: Does SISOG support students with special needs?
Yes. Our dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) department provides individualized support and works closely with families to ensure every child can thrive.
Daily Life, Logistics & Facilities
Q: What are the school hours?
The school is open from 8:00 to 18:20, with different program schedules tailored to specific age groups.
Q: Is lunch included in the school fees?
Yes, lunch and all daily meals are included in the tuition fees with no additional hidden costs.
Q: Is SISOG a nut-free school?
Yes, our school maintains a strict nut-free environment to ensure the safety of all students with allergies.
Q: What is SISOG's screen policy?
We limit overall screen time and use digital devices strictly as purposeful learning tools under teacher supervision, rather than for passive consumption.
Q: Does SISOG offer holiday camps?
Yes, we offer holiday camps for Primary students during school breaks. Organized by our after-school team, they provide a convenient and consistent care option for parents.
Q: How can we get to the school?
We are easily accessible by car, public transport, bike, and stroller. Convenient car parking is available directly beneath the school at the Les Vergers parking lot.
Parent Involvement & Community
Q: How do teachers communicate with parents?
We keep communication open, transparent, and regular. Teachers send regular newsletters detailing classroom learning and upcoming themes, alongside digital photo albums filled with candid snapshots of daily school life. Parents also receive ongoing written updates and meet regularly with teachers for one-on-one conferences to discuss their child's academic, social, and emotional growth.
Q: Are there opportunities for parents to get involved in the school community?
Yes! Parent involvement is central to our community at SISOG. Parents can join our active Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), which organizes school-wide family events and fun activities for children throughout the year. Additionally, parents can serve as Class Representatives to support classroom activities, help connect the school and home, and build welcoming connections among families.