Every year at Leysin American School, our Summer in Switzerland program brings students from around the world to our Alpine campus for the “Summer of a Lifetime.” With a diverse range of classes, engaging clubs, and thrilling outdoor activities, our summer experience provides the perfect blend of growth and fun. Students are immersed in a vibrant blend of learning, adventure, creativity, and friendship—all set against the spectacular backdrop of the Swiss Alps.
A Warm Welcome
As students arrive, they are greeted by our friendly and passionate staff and introduced to their dorms and “Faculty Families,” which are small, diverse groups of same-aged students led by dedicated staff. A signature LAS experience that mirrors our full-year program, Faculty Families help students instantly feel at home by providing smaller groups to engage in conversations and fun activities. In addition to Faculty Families, our orientation activities, campus tours, and a hike up the local mountain (the Berneuse), help everyone settle in and bond through shared experiences.
A Global Classroom in the Mountains
At LAS, experiential learning is at the heart of everything we do, and our summer program takes students to new heights—literally and figuratively! Students engage in an incredible variety of academic and enrichment classes including language acquisition, AI and robotics, visual and performing arts, music, Model United Nations, and more.
Our bespoke leadership programs—Alpine Leadership Program (ALP) and Experiential Entrepreneurship—challenge students to think boldly, lead confidently, and solve real-world problems. Whether brainstorming impactful solutions to envision a sustainable future, or learning to adapt to diverse and challenging Alpine environments, our students learn through experiencing, exploring, and pushing boundaries in a safe and supportive environment.
Creativity, Connection, and Adventure
Afternoons at Summer in Switzerland are alive with hands-on clubs ranging from cooking and baking to robotics and sports. Students can express themselves through paint, performance, and play, and they are always encouraged to try something new.
Evenings offer a perfect blend of fun and connection, with campfires, themed socials, karaoke, and games. One of the most cherished traditions is Family Day, where summer Faculty Families select destinations for a full day of exploration and bonding. Hiking scenic trails, laser tag, and chocolate factory tours are just a small sampling of the activities that create memories students will never forget.
Fantastic Fridays
Every Friday afternoon, our students indulge in unique and thrilling experiences. Fantastic Fridays give students a break from the usual routine as they immerse themselves in new, exciting activities. Each week brings a new adventure and the chance to explore, laugh, and grow! Some of our exhilarating options included canyoning, paddle boarding, escape rooms, a high ropes course, surfing, and laser tag.
Excursions Across Switzerland (and Beyond!)
Weekends at Summer in Switzerland are a whirlwind of discovery. Our Junior Program students can dive into adventures like raft-building on Alpine lakes, exploring the historic beauty of nearby Bern, and learning about engineering at the Transport Museum in Lucerne. With contagious energy and enthusiasm, they fully embrace every opportunity for growth and play.
Meanwhile, our Senior campers set off on breathtaking journeys from marveling at the Matterhorn in Zermatt and walking on air at Glacier 3000, to wandering the elegant streets of Gstaad. Some even venture into France to spend a magical day in the lakeside town of Annecy, soaking up the sights, markets, and canal-lined charm. These trips offered more than just sightseeing, they foster independence, curiosity, and cultural appreciation.
Learning Locally
Our dorms offer majestic views of the surrounding mountains and are situated just above the village of Leysin. With just a short walk students can easily and safely explore the local community in their free time, and even practice their French speaking skills if they’re taking a language course! It’s wonderful to see them venturing out into our magical setting, in groups of new friends that they formed in our nurturing and supportive environment.
Celebrating Growth and Saying Goodbye
To recognize the student creativity and effort throughout the sessions, we hold showcases highlighting performing arts, visual arts, and academic and leadership presentations. Our final banquet and Summer Family Soirée bring everyone together to share laughs, enjoy new friendships, and celebrate a summer that will be remembered forever.
The LAS Summer in Switzerland program provides a powerful reminder of what happens when young people from around the globe come together to explore, learn, and grow. Over the years we have watched students conquer homesickness, discover hidden talents, build meaningful friendships, and step far outside their comfort zones.
Until Next Summer…
We can’t wait to welcome new and returning summer students next year for another chapter of discovery, connection, and unforgettable adventure, all of which create the Summer of a Lifetime!
