A Dual Language Approach
The ISB Dual Language Programme (DLP) in English and German offers an alternative to our English Language Programme in the Junior School. Both options fully align with the Primary Years Programme curriculum.
The programme is currently available to students between 3 and 10 years old, and will be extended to Grade 5 students (11 years old) in 2026/27. It enables students to develop proficiency in both languages, therefore allowing them to better integrate with the local community.
Balanced English-German Learning
The Dual Language Programme is designed to support students in their first language (English or German) while also offering the opportunity to learn a second language in depth. This approach helps students develop linguistic skills in both languages, fostering bilingualism.
Classroom Structure
Each Dual Language class is supported by two dedicated teachers, one English-speaking and one German-speaking, as well as teaching assistants. The same two core teachers welcome and settle the students each day, guiding them through their learning. Classes alternate between a focus on English and German on different days, with at least one of the core teachers or assistants present at all times to support students.
Equal Instructional Time
In the Dual Language Programme, teachers divide their time equally between the two languages, ensuring that students receive 50% of their instruction in English and 50% in German. This balance promotes comprehensive language acquisition in both languages.
Homeroom and Support
Whether in the English Language or the Dual Language Programme, all students are assigned a homeroom class with a contact teacher. Teachers work collaboratively to provide individualized support and feedback, keeping parents informed of their child's progress through the contact teacher.
Parents’ Views on the Program’s Impact
77 — DLP 014
"The program provides our child with the best of both worlds (international and local)."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
76 — DLP 013
"They are reading and writing in two languages by grade one. It’s incredible!"
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
75 — DLP 012
"I really like the immersion aspect. Children learn so quickly!"
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
74 — DLP 011
"Full bilingualism and biliteracy. The expertise of German Teachers is at a high standard. "
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
73 — DLP 010
"The programme doesn't require parents to have knowledge in the second language."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
72 — DLP 009
"It is great that the children get both languages. This is very important for us as we intend to stay in Switzerland in the future and have been here for 15 years. It is great that they get a mixture of English and German."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
71 — DLP 008
"It can indeed promote a child's bilingual learning, especially for those who are reluctant to step out of their comfort zone."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
70 — DLP 007
"Full language immersion is the best way for children to learn a new language so I like that the classes are fully immersed in English and then in German."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
69 — DLP 006
"We particularly appreciate the way the programme integrates language learning into everyday subjects, making it more natural and engaging. The teachers are supportive and well-prepared, and the multicultural environment encourages openness and curiosity."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
68 — DLP 005
"The Dual Language programme is well organized. The teachers are caring, patient and kind."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
67 — DLP 004
"I like that the German teachers are native speakers or have very strong German language skills."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
66 — DLP 003
"I love the effort from the class teacher to engage parents in speaking German also and the beginning and end of the day. I like the natural learning opportunity and while I was nervous my child would struggle with it, the teachers are very understanding and use other methods of communication to ensure their happiness and comfort."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
65 — DLP 002
"My child seems to think she speaks German. That type of confidence is impressive, given her home and sport environments."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
64 — DLP 001
"I really appreciate how the Dual Language Programme is structured — with one full week in German, and then during the English week students still have German every day. It feels like one of the strongest dual-language German programs among Basel’s international schools. I also value your thoughtful approach of adding one year at a time to ensure the program’s success, rather than doing too much all at once."
– Dual Language Programme Parent –
63 — G3 Parent (Brazil)
"This summer, our child attended a three-week workshop in Switzerland. At first, they were a bit shy, and the staff weren’t sure about their German skills since they attend an international school. But once the workshop began, they quickly gained confidence—following conversations in German and even performing in a shadow theater! They came home bubbling with excitement, telling us about acting out a scene entirely in German and how they “couldn’t stop laughing because it was so much fun.” It was such a joy for us to see their confidence and language skills grow—and to see them having so much fun while doing it. We’re so grateful to their German teachers for all the encouragement, support, and for making learning so engaging. This program truly inspires our children and nurtures their love of learning."
– Grade 3 Parent (Brazil) –
Outdoor Learning
"Waldkinder" is a key part of our curriculum, where outdoor learning helps children connect with nature, understand the world, and engage with Switzerland's environment and local community.