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The Swiss educational system is distinguished by its diversity, each of the 26
cantons being responsible for all aspects of education in its territory. An
overview of the structure of the Swiss educational system can be accessed
through Related Topics opposite.
Some 153 000 children between the ages of 4 and 6 – that is, 98.5% of
children in this age group – attended nursery school (pre-school level) in
2006. Of these, nearly 9% were enrolled in unsubsidised private schools.
Compulsory schooling lasts for nine years and includes a primary and a secondary
cycle (secondary level I) in all cantons. Attendance is compulsory and free of
charge for all children, whether Swiss or foreign. The municipalities ensure
that all children can attend their local public school or one nearby. The
schools directorate of each municipality (or the municipal administration if
there is no schools directorate) can provide information on general schooling
matters (e.g. admission, regulations or transport). A total of 850 000 pupils
were enrolled in compulsory schooling in 2006, 3.4% of them in private schools.
The years of compulsory schooling are followed by secondary level II, at
which there are two choices: (1) the general academic route in, for example, ‘Matura’
schools or specialised schools, or (2) vocational training. Some two thirds of
children go on from compulsory schooling to vocational training
(apprenticeship), while one third take the general academic route.
Tertiary level education comprises advanced vocational training, the
universities and vocational schools with university status. In 2006/07 some 172
000 students were engaged in tertiary education.
Text last edited on: 04/2008
Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2008
Reproduction is authorised.
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