Getting a Good Start to School Life, Basel Primary Schools in Switzerland

Abstract

Dear Readers, Primary school, together with kindergarten, constitutes the beginning of 11 years of compulsory education. After kindergarten comes primary school, which lasts for six years. Children attend the same school for all six primary school years. In primary school, children's perception, thinking-expression skills and social skills are supported. The primary school level has to introduce children to the fundamentals of lifelong learning. Teaching in primary school is holistic and experience-oriented. Depending on their age, children often learn by living, acting, and experimenting. Children are encouraged in their personal, social and professional skills. Teachers take into account the relevant developmental level of a child and develop individual abilities and skills. In addition, students are prepared for the transition to three-tier secondary school. School trips, excursions and school colonies are part of the lessons. (Erziehungsdepartement, 2023a).