I am ready for a long road flight for working with a week- or months-long projects.
Academic Overview
MCS is offering a bespoke international curriculum Pre-iGCSE, iGCSE and A-Level, exceptional co-curricular and supper-curriculum projects.
START YOUR JOURNEY
- ACADEMIC CALENDAR
- SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS
Our highly qualified academic staff encourage a scholarly approach in our pupils and look to nurture in them the habits and skills of independent learning which will equip them not only for success at school, but also at university and in their future careers.
Developing intellectual curiosity & a love of learning
Malvern College Switzerland builds on the proud traditions of Malvern College UK in fostering scholarship. We follow a traditional, academic British curriculum infused with a determinedly global outlook. Experimentation and risk-taking is encouraged within a safe and supportive environment so that all of our pupils develop life-long habits of learning.
Whatever their starting point, successful Malvernians are defined by a range of personal qualities that underpin their successes and their value to others. These are a clearly outlined set of 'qualities' that are at the foundation of everything we do at MCS. Both pupils and staff are encouraged to reflect on how they apply them in their daily lives.
Our curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils leave us with the examination results and habits of mind that afford them access to the most highly regarded universities in the world.
Working towards fluency in English
As an international school, many of our pupils are not native English speakers. We have extensive support available for pupils throughout the school (EAL) to assist them in becoming fluent in English.
Developing intellectual curiosity & a love of learning
Malvern College Switzerland builds on the proud traditions of Malvern College UK in fostering scholarship. We follow a traditional, academic British curriculum infused with a determinedly global outlook. Experimentation and risk-taking is encouraged within a safe and supportive environment so that all of our pupils develop life-long habits of learning.
Whatever their starting point, successful Malvernians are defined by a range of personal qualities that underpin their successes and their value to others. These are a clearly outlined set of 'qualities' that are at the foundation of everything we do at MCS. Both pupils and staff are encouraged to reflect on how they apply them in their daily lives.
Our curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils leave us with the examination results and habits of mind that afford them access to the most highly regarded universities in the world.
Working towards fluency in English
As an international school, many of our pupils are not native English speakers. We have extensive support available for pupils throughout the school (EAL) to assist them in becoming fluent in English.
Pupils usually start the Pre-IGCSE programme (referred to as Year 7, 8 or 9 under the British system) when they are 11, 12 or 13 years old before the academic year of entry.
The Pre-IGCSE programme introduces pupils to the subjects that they will study at IGCSE. The curriculum is designed to enable pupils to become confident and successful independent learners improving the personal, learning and thinking skills that will ensure their academic success higher up the school. The curriculum introduces pupils to a wide range of academic and cultural experiences designed to stimulate their intellectual curiosity.
The Pre-IGCSE years at MCS are a great time to develop wide ranging and transferable skills that will be needed as pupils work their way through the school and onto the exciting worlds of university and work. Those following this programme are encouraged to read widely, to develop digital skills and to invest time and energy in the co-curricular and pastoral sides of College life.
All pupils study English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, History, Art, a Modern Foreign Language, Physical Education, Computing and Life Skills (PSHE). Non-native English speakers receive lessons in English as an Additional Language.
The Pre-IGCSE programme introduces pupils to the subjects that they will study at IGCSE. The curriculum is designed to enable pupils to become confident and successful independent learners improving the personal, learning and thinking skills that will ensure their academic success higher up the school. The curriculum introduces pupils to a wide range of academic and cultural experiences designed to stimulate their intellectual curiosity.
The Pre-IGCSE years at MCS are a great time to develop wide ranging and transferable skills that will be needed as pupils work their way through the school and onto the exciting worlds of university and work. Those following this programme are encouraged to read widely, to develop digital skills and to invest time and energy in the co-curricular and pastoral sides of College life.
All pupils study English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, History, Art, a Modern Foreign Language, Physical Education, Computing and Life Skills (PSHE). Non-native English speakers receive lessons in English as an Additional Language.
Pre-IGCSE
Year 7, Year 8 & Year 9 / Age 11, Age 12 & Age 13
IGCSE stands for International General Certificate of Secondary Education. It is equivalent to the GCSE qualification taken by UK students to prepare them for A Levels. IGCSEs are offered in many countries across the world as well as in the UK itself, where many private schools feel they are better preparation for A Levels than the GCSE.
IGCSEs are internationally recognised qualifications that lead directly into A-levels.
At MCS most pupils study nine subjects, as below:
Mathematics
Business Studies
A Modern Foreign Language - French, Spanish or German
English - Either Language and/or Literature or English as an Additional Language
Biology, Chemistry and Physics - Dual or Triple Award Science depending on ability
Pupils are also able to choose between:
Art & Design or Geography / History or Computing
As the school grows, we will be added more subject choices.
IGCSEs are internationally recognised qualifications that lead directly into A-levels.
At MCS most pupils study nine subjects, as below:
Mathematics
Business Studies
A Modern Foreign Language - French, Spanish or German
English - Either Language and/or Literature or English as an Additional Language
Biology, Chemistry and Physics - Dual or Triple Award Science depending on ability
Pupils are also able to choose between:
Art & Design or Geography / History or Computing
As the school grows, we will be added more subject choices.
IGCSE
Year 10, Year 11 / Age 15, Age 16
A Levels are two year academic courses designed to lead candidates directly on to university. Candidates normally start taking four A-levels, with most dropping to three in their second year. The A Level subjects on offer at Malvern College Switzerland can be found below.
The A Level curriculum is supplemented by supervised private study in order to prepare pupils for the rigours of university life. Also built into the curriculum are numerous opportunities for collaborative project work and for research. Sixth Formers at Malvern College Switzerland also receive advice tailored to their specific interests about university applications and careers.
A Levels allow for specialisation, but this does not come at the expense of a broad and holistic curriculum. A Levels allow for entry into universities around the world; they are widely recognised and well-respected qualifications. We anticipate being able to offer the subjects listed below for those starting in September 2022.
SUBJECTS OFFERD:
The A Level curriculum is supplemented by supervised private study in order to prepare pupils for the rigours of university life. Also built into the curriculum are numerous opportunities for collaborative project work and for research. Sixth Formers at Malvern College Switzerland also receive advice tailored to their specific interests about university applications and careers.
A Levels allow for specialisation, but this does not come at the expense of a broad and holistic curriculum. A Levels allow for entry into universities around the world; they are widely recognised and well-respected qualifications. We anticipate being able to offer the subjects listed below for those starting in September 2022.
SUBJECTS OFFERD:
- Art * English * Biology * Physics * Chemistry * Mathematics * Computing
- Economics * Psychology * Business Studies * Music * History * French
- Spanish * German * Geography * Physical Education
A-Level
Year 12, Year 13 / Age 16, Age 17-18
Providing pupils with career-ready and industry focused hybrid programmes is one of the many unique aspects of studying at Malvern College Switzerland (MSC). MCS, in equal collaboration with the Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS), has developed the unique MCS A Level and SHMS University Y1 integrated programme. This forward-thinking programme provides MCS A Level pupils with a significant educational experience to better serve the hospitality industry by gaining additional knowledge and skills through practical training and access to university-level instruction. This unique opportunity allows pupils to progress directly into the Year 2 of university after successful graduation at MCS.
MCS students who have successfully completed 2 A-Levels and the Hospitality Programme to progress towards the completion of the following awards: (referred as the Programme in this document)
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality & Events Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality & Design Management
– granted by SHMS Swiss Hotel Management School and University of Derby, UK
Detailed entry requirements available in SHMS application package.
MCS students who have successfully completed 2 A-Levels and the Hospitality Programme to progress towards the completion of the following awards: (referred as the Programme in this document)
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality & Events Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality & Design Management
– granted by SHMS Swiss Hotel Management School and University of Derby, UK
Detailed entry requirements available in SHMS application package.
A Level + University
Y1 Programme
Y1 Programme
Year 12, Year 13 / Age 16, Age 17-18
From September 2022, we will offer a bespoke course for pupils who are 17 or 18 years old and planning to move on to worlds best universities. This course focuses on developing the academic skills, language credentials and habits of mind needed to make the best of a university education. Pupils on the pre-University course are able to hone critical thinking and writing skills.
University
Preparation
Programme
Preparation
Programme
One Year Programme / Age 17-18
Skills Developed
- Self-study - Getting ready for the independent study required at university.
- Note-taking - Becoming proficient at extracting the relevant information and condensing it.
- Referencing - Preparedness for academic writing and convention.
- Self-knowledge - Getting to know their own strengths and weaknesses and how to become the best version of themselves.
- Time Management - Learning to cope with deadlines and workload in a sustainable and efficient manner.
- Independent Project Work - Learning how to research and work with others in a variety of contexts.
This course includes instruction in the following:
- Mathematics - Honing numeracy for university study.
- Academic English - Further practice in the use of English in an academic context.
- Science - Study of the philosophy of science and its application as a general preparation for university courses of all types.
- Life Skills & ICT - Preparation for living life independently and away from home. Training for greater ease in the use of computers for study.
- MFL - Further instruction in a chosen modern foreign language.
- Global Perspectives and Thinking Skills - Instruction in current affairs, politics and citizenship. Exploration of the history of thought and ways of thinking.
OUR TEAM
Mr. Watts
Physics, Biology
Miss. Cumberlidge
Mathematics
Mr. Smallwood
Physics, Biology
Miss. Thomas
English, SEN, EAL
Mr. Ellis
Art, Design
Miss. Bows
Modern Languages
ADACEMIC OVERVIEW
Our highly qualified academic staff encourage a scholarly approach in our pupils and look to nurture in them the habits and skills of independent learning which will equip them not only for success at school, but also at university and in their future careers.
Developing intellectual curiosity & a love of learning
Malvern College Switzerland builds on the proud traditions of Malvern College UK in fostering scholarship. We follow a traditional, academic British curriculum infused with a determinedly global outlook. Experimentation and risk-taking is encouraged within a safe and supportive environment so that all of our pupils develop life-long habits of learning.
Whatever their starting point, successful Malvernians are defined by a range of personal qualities that underpin their successes and their value to others. These are a clearly outlined set of 'qualities' that are at the foundation of everything we do at MCS. Both pupils and staff are encouraged to reflect on how they apply them in their daily lives.
Our curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils leave us with the examination results and habits of mind that afford them access to the most highly regarded universities in the world.
Working towards fluency in English
As an international school, many of our pupils are not native English speakers. We have extensive support available for pupils throughout the school (EAL) to assist them in becoming fluent in English.
Developing intellectual curiosity & a love of learning
Malvern College Switzerland builds on the proud traditions of Malvern College UK in fostering scholarship. We follow a traditional, academic British curriculum infused with a determinedly global outlook. Experimentation and risk-taking is encouraged within a safe and supportive environment so that all of our pupils develop life-long habits of learning.
Whatever their starting point, successful Malvernians are defined by a range of personal qualities that underpin their successes and their value to others. These are a clearly outlined set of 'qualities' that are at the foundation of everything we do at MCS. Both pupils and staff are encouraged to reflect on how they apply them in their daily lives.
Our curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils leave us with the examination results and habits of mind that afford them access to the most highly regarded universities in the world.
Working towards fluency in English
As an international school, many of our pupils are not native English speakers. We have extensive support available for pupils throughout the school (EAL) to assist them in becoming fluent in English.
Pre-IGCSE
(Year 7, Year 8 & Year 9 / Age 11, Age 12 & Age 13)
The Pre-IGCSE programme introduces pupils to the subjects that they will study at IGCSE. The curriculum is designed to enable pupils to become confident and successful independent learners improving the personal, learning and thinking skills that will ensure their academic success higher up the school. The curriculum introduces pupils to a wide range of academic and cultural experiences designed to stimulate their intellectual curiosity.
The Pre-IGCSE years at MCS are a great time to develop wide ranging and transferable skills that will be needed as pupils work their way through the school and onto the exciting worlds of university and work. Those following this programme are encouraged to read widely, to develop digital skills and to invest time and energy in the co-curricular and pastoral sides of College life.
All pupils study English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, History, Art, a Modern Foreign Language, Physical Education, Computing and Life Skills (PSHE). Non-native English speakers receive lessons in English as an Additional Language.
The Pre-IGCSE programme introduces pupils to the subjects that they will study at IGCSE. The curriculum is designed to enable pupils to become confident and successful independent learners improving the personal, learning and thinking skills that will ensure their academic success higher up the school. The curriculum introduces pupils to a wide range of academic and cultural experiences designed to stimulate their intellectual curiosity.
The Pre-IGCSE years at MCS are a great time to develop wide ranging and transferable skills that will be needed as pupils work their way through the school and onto the exciting worlds of university and work. Those following this programme are encouraged to read widely, to develop digital skills and to invest time and energy in the co-curricular and pastoral sides of College life.
All pupils study English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, History, Art, a Modern Foreign Language, Physical Education, Computing and Life Skills (PSHE). Non-native English speakers receive lessons in English as an Additional Language.
IGCSE
(Year 10 & Year 11 / Age 14 & Age 16)
IGCSEs are internationally recognised qualifications that lead directly into A-levels.
At MCS most pupils study nine subjects, as below:
English - Either Language and/or Literature or English as an Additional Language depending on ability
Mathematics
Biology, Chemistry and Physics - Dual or Triple Award Science depending on ability
A Modern Foreign Language - French, Spanish or German
Business Studies
Pupils are also able to choose between:
Art & Design or Geography
History or Computing
As the school grows, we will be added more subject choices.
IGCSEs are internationally recognised qualifications that lead directly into A-levels.
At MCS most pupils study nine subjects, as below:
English - Either Language and/or Literature or English as an Additional Language depending on ability
Mathematics
Biology, Chemistry and Physics - Dual or Triple Award Science depending on ability
A Modern Foreign Language - French, Spanish or German
Business Studies
Pupils are also able to choose between:
Art & Design or Geography
History or Computing
As the school grows, we will be added more subject choices.
A Level
(Year 12 & Year 13 / Age 16 & Age 17/18)
The A Level curriculum is supplemented by supervised private study in order to prepare pupils for the rigours of university life. Also built into the curriculum are numerous opportunities for collaborative project work and for research. Sixth Formers at Malvern College Switzerland also receive advice tailored to their specific interests about university applications and careers.
A Levels allow for specialisation, but this does not come at the expense of a broad and holistic curriculum. A Levels allow for entry into universities around the world; they are widely recognised and well-respected qualifications. We anticipate being able to offer the subjects listed below for those starting in September 2022.
SUBJECTS OFFERD:
The A Level curriculum is supplemented by supervised private study in order to prepare pupils for the rigours of university life. Also built into the curriculum are numerous opportunities for collaborative project work and for research. Sixth Formers at Malvern College Switzerland also receive advice tailored to their specific interests about university applications and careers.
A Levels allow for specialisation, but this does not come at the expense of a broad and holistic curriculum. A Levels allow for entry into universities around the world; they are widely recognised and well-respected qualifications. We anticipate being able to offer the subjects listed below for those starting in September 2022.
SUBJECTS OFFERD:
- Art
- English
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Computing
- Economics
- Psychology
- Business Studies
- Music
- History
- French
- Spanish
- German
- Geography
- Physical Education
A Level + University Y1 programme in Hospitality
(Year 12 & Year 13 / Age 16 & Age 17/18)
MCS students who have successfully completed 2 A-Levels and the Hospitality Programme to progress towards the completion of the following awards: (referred as the Programme in this document)
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality & Events Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality & Design Management
– granted by SHMS Swiss Hotel Management School and University of Derby, UK
In order to be eligible for the Bachelor Programme, MCS students will have to meet the conditions set forth in Appendix A.
SHMS retains complete authority to verify and decide whether such conditions are met and decide whether to admit a MCS student, on a case-by-case basis.
SHMS curriculum to be delivered by SHMS or MCS to MCS students enrolled in the Hospitality Programme at MCS:
Course code / SHMS course title / UK credits
FB101 / Food & Beverage Production and Service Theory / 6
FB102 / Food & Beverage Service Practice / 6
FB103 / Food & Beverage Production Practice / 6
FB104 / Food & Beverage Management / 6
ID101 / Food & Beverage Experience and Interior Design / 6
FB106 / Wine & Bar / 6
HS101 / Hospitality Studies / 6
AC101 / Accounting Principles / 6
AR101 / Academic Communications / 6
CO101 / Personal Development / 6
AOE101 / The Art of Employability / 6
LF101 / LG101 / French or German / 6
*Curriculum is subject to change
Appendix A.
It is agreed that SHMS will:
Detailed entry requirements available in SHMS application package.
MCS students who have successfully completed 2 A-Levels and the Hospitality Programme to progress towards the completion of the following awards: (referred as the Programme in this document)
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality & Events Management
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Hospitality & Design Management
– granted by SHMS Swiss Hotel Management School and University of Derby, UK
In order to be eligible for the Bachelor Programme, MCS students will have to meet the conditions set forth in Appendix A.
SHMS retains complete authority to verify and decide whether such conditions are met and decide whether to admit a MCS student, on a case-by-case basis.
SHMS curriculum to be delivered by SHMS or MCS to MCS students enrolled in the Hospitality Programme at MCS:
Course code / SHMS course title / UK credits
FB101 / Food & Beverage Production and Service Theory / 6
FB102 / Food & Beverage Service Practice / 6
FB103 / Food & Beverage Production Practice / 6
FB104 / Food & Beverage Management / 6
ID101 / Food & Beverage Experience and Interior Design / 6
FB106 / Wine & Bar / 6
HS101 / Hospitality Studies / 6
AC101 / Accounting Principles / 6
AR101 / Academic Communications / 6
CO101 / Personal Development / 6
AOE101 / The Art of Employability / 6
LF101 / LG101 / French or German / 6
*Curriculum is subject to change
Appendix A.
It is agreed that SHMS will:
- Process all complete applications.
- Recognize previous studies undertaken at MCS towards its Programme.
- Deliver the SHMS Year 1, Semester 1 curriculum to MCS students enrolled in the Hospitality Programme, to allow advanced standing to MCS students towards SHMS undergraduate degree;
- Accept those candidates from MCS who have a minimum TOEFL IBT 55 or IELTS equivalent to 5.5.
- Accept those candidates from MCS who have successfully completed 2 A Levels at MCS;
- Award MCS students the qualification to the Programme successfully completed. Course progressions for the different options are listed in Appendix B.
- Place graduates in practical training, in accordance to the career services department, with equality for all graduates.
- Promote this Programme at MCS.
Detailed entry requirements available in SHMS application package.
University Preparation Programme
One Year Programme / Age 17 or 18
Skills Developed
Skills Developed
- Self-study - Getting ready for the independent study required at university.
- Note-taking - Becoming proficient at extracting the relevant information and condensing it.
- Referencing - Preparedness for academic writing and convention.
- Self-knowledge - Getting to know their own strengths and weaknesses and how to become the best version of themselves.
- Time Management - Learning to cope with deadlines and workload in a sustainable and efficient manner.
- Independent Project Work - Learning how to research and work with others in a variety of contexts.
- Mathematics - Honing numeracy for university study.
- Academic English - Further practice in the use of English in an academic context.
- Science - Study of the philosophy of science and its application as a general preparation for university courses of all types.
- Life Skills & ICT - Preparation for living life independently and away from home. Training for greater ease in the use of computers for study.
- MFL - Further instruction in a chosen modern foreign language.
- Global Perspectives and Thinking Skills - Instruction in current affairs, politics and citizenship. Exploration of the history of thought and ways of thinking.
FAQ
What curriculum do you follow at MCS?
We follow a British-style curriculum. For pupils aged 11 to 14 this means following the English National Curriculum, which we have adapted for an international audience.
Pupils aged 14 to 16 follow the Cambridge International IGCSE specifications, with most pupils taking nine subjects in total. Finally, those aged 16-18 take the Cambridge International A-levels.
Pupils aged 14 to 16 follow the Cambridge International IGCSE specifications, with most pupils taking nine subjects in total. Finally, those aged 16-18 take the Cambridge International A-levels.
Are you selective?
In common with Malvern UK, we are not an overtly selective school. However, we do not normally accept children who are below B2 on the CEFR scale for English fluency. Additionally, we interview all pupils at the point of application and, for Sixth Form entrants, conduct entry tests in English and mathematics. We reserve the right to disbar applicants from taking certain A-level subjects on the basis of these tests and reports from their previous school(s).
Do you cater for special educational needs?
All of our staff have experience of teaching children with a variety of educational needs. We also have strong connections with educational psychologists and support staff in Leysin and the surrounding area. However, we are not a special school, nor do we have a dedicated learning support department. Parents are encouraged to be open about their child’s needs at the point of application so that we can have an honest conversation about what we can and cannot deliver in terms of extra support.
My child has never boarded before – should I be worried?
Your child leaving home to board for the first time can be an unnerving experience. We have a very experienced staff though who will make the transition extremely easy. There’s a school nurse on hand, plus a live-in houseparent and a team of staff to ensure that MCS feels like a home from home. In your child’s first few weeks with us you’ll get regular updates so that you know how they are settling in. There really is no need to worry.
What happens at the weekends?
We’re a full boarding school so weekends are very much part of an MCS education. In the ski season at least one of the days is given over entirely to skiing. On the other day we run educational trips and/or set aside time for pupils to enjoy the facilities in the village. There’s never any chance of children getting bored on one of our weekends!