Contrary to the IB Diploma or a Swiss Maturity or a French Baccalaureate, there are no subject-specific requirements for A Levels which means a student can study subjects that interest them and in which they are most likely to succeed and achieve very good results. Most students choose four A Level subjects and study these for two years. We offer a wide range of subjects and are happy to advise on subject combinations when registering.

Specialisation in certain areas is possible (but not necessary) so that a future medical student could for example already start to focus on subjects such as Biology, Chemistry and maybe a choice of Physics or Maths. Those students that are not quite sure of what they want to do next can study a broader selection of subjects such as a Science, Humanities and Language. We have extensive experience and can help students with the best pathway for them.

Is an assessed and moderated project chosen by the student in an area that they enjoy and then they are mentored and guided by a member of staff. Top universities across the world value the EPQ highly and all GES students will be expected to complete this qualification.

Students at GES are expected to achieve either a B2 or C1 language qualification in French or German. Taught curriculum time will ensure that they achieve this by the end of year 13. This is not only a necessary entrance requirement for Swiss universities, we feel this is an important element for an international school located in Switzerland.

All students are expected to complete the Gold level of the Duke of Edinburgh Award’s International Award. The award includes outward bound expeditions, physical recreation, skills and voluntary service. As the world’s leading youth achievement award, it is an excellent qualification that offers real breadth and is highly valued across the world.

Alongside these core elements of the A Level programme, additional studies centre around specific interdisciplinary courses for students to acquire skills and attributes such as critical thinking, confidence and creativity. And there will be time for sport and exercise – both individual and team sports – which the school values highly and excels in.

We encourage students to get involved in as many activities as possible. There are numerous lunchtime or after-school clubs and societies to join and a range of opportunities in music or drama productions at the School. Other ways to participate and gain valuable skills are through the Model United Nations, our unique Sports Leaders programme, international competitions, entrepreneurship, work experience, community service, peer mentoring and the School Council or Eco Council.

 The atmosphere is that of a warm and respectful community, and everyone plays a part and can feel at home. But there are also high expectations for our students’ success. A student in the A Level programme is at the same time considered a leader and senior member of that community, mixing with others in their year group but also working with students of all ages. Unlike in some schools or colleges where the oldest pupils (16+) are kept separate, at GES, our oldest students will feel very much part of the whole school, but will still be given privileges not open to the youngest students.

Reasons for choosing the A Level programme at GES can be numerous and all are critical for the success of our students:

• Fantastic teachers – highly qualified subject specialists who communicate with passion and inspire students.
• Modern teaching methods, which are pupil-centred, active and engaging, encouraging confidence and independence of thought.
• Choice of subjects – a great advantage for pupils with a clear idea of which subjects they need to access and excel in for a chosen university course. Or for pupils who have certain strengths and will benefit from being able to focus on those areas.
• Access to the top universities – many of our teaching staff are graduates from top UK universities and so have insight into preparing students for interviews and pre-admissions tests in these areas.