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TASIS Summer Programs

INTERACTIVE VIEWBOOK

 

 

 

Discover the Beauty and Tranquility of Switzerland

1st Session: June 23–July 18, 2024 | 2nd Session: July 21–August 10, 2024

 

 

High School Program (HSP)

Ages 14-17

Middle School Program (MSP)

Ages 11-13

Le Château des Enfants (CDE)

Ages 7-10

Minnows

Ages 4-6

Discover the Beauty of Switzerland and Beyond

The magic begins on our campus. Perched on a hillside in sunny southern Switzerland with commanding views of snow-capped mountains, palm trees, and Lake Lugano, our ever-evolving global village comprises 25 buildings dating from the historic 17th- century Villa De Nobili to the state-of-the-art Campo Science Center.

Capitalizing on our location in the heart of Europe, our travel program will introduce you to majestic natural settings—from the Swiss Alps to the Italian lakes to the Mediterranean coast—and to stunning European cities, including, Basel, Florence, Milan, Nice, Rome, Siena, Venice, Andermatt, Zermatt, and Zurich.

Rise to the Challenge

•  Go canyoning in Cresciano
•  Raft down the Rhine River
•  Hike the Jungfrau
•  Ice climb the Furka Glacier in Andermatt
•  Ride an alpine slide on Monte Tamaro
•  Kayak on the Ticino River
•  Waterski on Lake Lugano
•  Paddleboard on Lake Maggiore

What adventures will you choose?

Develop Your Mind

While our programs provide plenty of time to play and explore, most mornings are dedicated to traditional classroom learning with a first-rate team of dedicated educators. Among other options, you can take intensive courses in Italian, French, or English as an Additional Language; build an academic writing portfolio; prepare for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program; learn how to cook like an Italian; develop your own lean startup; and study robotics, science, graphic design, digital photography, architecture & design, fashion & textile design, or musical theater.

What will you learn?

Create your masterpiece

Our visual and performing arts programs are designed to build confidence and bring out the artist in every child. Whether you want to star in an original musical, learn a new instrument, perform a modern dance, write your own script or song, paint a canvas of the campus, take the perfect photo, design a poster, create an architecture model, or design a clothing line, our devoted team of professional artists and educators will help you achieve your goal.

What will you create?

High School Program (HSP)

Ages 14–17

  • Choose one academic course for the duration of the session (approx. 4 hours per day)
     
  • Select two sports or activities in the afternoons (approx. 2 hours per day)
     
  • Participate in weekend day-trips (included in tuition) or overnight excursions (additional cost) throughout Switzerland, Italy, and France

 

Learn More about HSP

Courses

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
HSP (Ages 14–17)

English courses are structured to improve fluency and confidence in an immersive environment, and lessons are reinforced through daily interactions with friends and counselors. Courses are offered for students of all English-speaking levels. 

Read More about English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Academic Writing
HSP (Ages 14–17)

Students practice the various forms of writing that are expected at quality international schools and universities. Classes focus on structuring and writing narrative, expository, persuasive, and research essays, and students leave with a portfolio of work that will enhance their school applications. This course is limited to native speakers or near-fluent students who are taught primarily in English during the academic year.

Read More about Academic Writing
French
HSP (Ages 14–17)

The French program is focused on providing an accelerated environment for learning the language and learning about Francophone culture. Students develop speaking, reading, and writing skills and learn about French food, culture, songs, and films. Courses include beginner and intermediate levels.

Read More about French
Lean Startup Masterclass 
HSP (Ages 14–17)

Guided by an experienced teacher and the build-measure-learn feedback loop, students learn the basic principles of the lean startup approach, examine how the digital innovation explosion has rapidly changed the way an entrepreneur must approach starting a new business, identify which skills are most important in this new landscape, and ultimately develop their own ideas into a startup. This course is recommended for students who are 15 and older.

Read More about Lean Startup Masterclass 
Fine Art Portfolio
HSP (Ages 14–17)

This intensive drawing and painting course offers young artists the unique opportunity to learn and practice techniques that have been taught for centuries. The classic approach allows students to enhance both their artistic skills and portfolios and is an excellent option for students preparing to enter art school or for those studying AP or IB Art. Applicants are required to submit a recommendation from an art teacher. 

Read More about Fine Art Portfolio
Musical Theater
HSP (Ages 14–17)

In this course, students lift their musical theater skills in this comprehensive course taught by our excellent performing arts team. This course concentrates on high-quality music, dancing, and acting classes that help prepare the students for an original musical experience, crafted for and by them. Opportunities extend beyond performance to backstage, focusing on costume and set design, stage management, lighting, and direction. This one-of-a-kind musical theater program includes a demanding rehearsal schedule and elevates the performers to reach beyond their limits to create a unique summer arts experience. Open to anyone with an interest in musical theater—no previous experience is required!

Read More about Musical Theater
Digital Photography
HSP (Ages 14–17)

This course is an introduction to the technical and aesthetic properties of digital photography with an emphasis on using a digital camera as a tool for self-expression. Students learn how to process images with the tools offered in Adobe Creative Cloud, and trips around the region provide opportunities to practice shooting among some of the most beautiful and dramatic scenery in Europe. Students must bring their own DSLR camera.

Read More about Digital Photography
Filmmaking
HSP (Ages 14–17)

Students participate in a variety of intensive filmmaking units, honing their production skills to create an original short film. Students craft their own original short film script in the Screenwriting unit, learn the basics of acting on film in the On-Screen Acting unit, and learn the craft of film production both on and off screen during the Filmmaking Lab. Students need not have any previous experience—only an interest in the process of making a story come to life through film. 

Read More about Filmmaking
Architecture & Design
HSP (Ages 14–17)

This course introduces students to the disciplines of architecture and design. Classwork includes studying and sketching architecture of the 19th and 20th centuries from slides and creating several models that are displayed during the Summer Arts Festival. A required weekend trip takes the class to Weil-am-Rhein, Germany, to explore the renowned Vitra Design Museum.

There is an additional cost of CHF 800 to cover the cost of the field trip to Basel, which includes a visit to the Vitra campus in Weil-am-Rhein, Germany.

Read More about Architecture & Design
Fashion & Textile Design
HSP (Ages 14–17)

This course introduces students to the fascinating world of fashion design and illustration. Students gain an understanding of the design process by engaging in fashion illustration, natural indigo dyeing, silk painting, and block printing while becoming more confident in design. They also develop an awareness of major sustainability issues in today's industry and learn ways to be more conscious consumers. The class has the opportunity to visit local fashion offices, textile factories, and museums.

Read More about Fashion & Textile Design
La Cucina Italiana
HSP (Ages 14–17)

Taught by professional chefs, this course inspires students to create their own Italian meals. Students visit markets to source local ingredients and visit local producers and a historical mill. Classes meet in a professional kitchen in downtown Lugano where students learn knife skills, food safety and hygiene, and basic principles of cooking. They leave with knowledge of the food culture of Italy and with recipes to share with friends and family.

Second session only.

Read More about La Cucina Italiana
Introduction to Investment
HSP (Ages 14–17)

Learn investment techniques and strategies in the home of global banking. Students use virtual capital to create their own investment portfolio and discuss their daily progress. Theoretical sessions cover the principles of investing, risk profiles, diversification, and investment options such as bonds, foreign exchange, gold, and cryptocurrency. This course is designed for students who are 15 and older.

Read More about Introduction to Investment
STEAM
HSP (Ages 14–17)

This course focuses on investigating the scientific concepts and principles present in our everyday lives, from homeostasis to ice cream! Based in our state-of-the-art Campo Science Center, the course includes laboratory work, creative group projects, and discussions about chemistry, biology, and physics. Students grow more familiar with scientific language and concepts and choose a scientific phenomenon to investigate and explain to others. They showcase their knowledge by creating posters and projects shared during the Summer Arts Festivals held at the end of each session.

Read More about STEAM

 

 

 

Learn

Challenging. Inspiring. Engaging. HSP courses offer you the opportunity to stretch your mind alongside new friends from around the world. Each student selects one primary academic course and focuses on that subject for approximately four hours each weekday morning. The teacher-to-student ratio in most courses is 1:12, and students are expected to work well both individually and in group environments.

Learn more about HSP Courses

My daughter had the most wonderful time. She came home ecstatic about the program as a whole. She learned so much in her writing course, made tons of friends from around the world, and enjoyed all of her weekend trips. The strongest aspects of the program for her were her independence, friendships, and cultural awareness. Overall your program was amazing!!! A+.

HSP Parent

Explore

Hike the Jungfrau. Sketch in Venice. Climb a glacier. Eat in Rome. Explore Nice. Go canyoning, whitewater rafting, or kayaking. With a location in the heart of Europe, the HSP travel program introduces you to beautiful and exciting destinations—from the Italian lakes to the Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean coast.

Students can spend their weekends visiting cities, traipsing through the Swiss countryside, or touring world-class museums. Choose from overnight trips to destinations in Switzerland, France, and Italy or from a variety of exciting day trips.
 

Day trips focus on destinations that are a shorter drive from campus. City breaks to Milan, Zurich, or Lucerne include cultural tours and time to explore with friends. Adventurous students may choose from canyoning, canoeing, rafting, or caving. Or students can relax at a lido in Ascona, Locarno, or Tesserete. All trips are included in tuition, and students return to TASIS each night. 

Overnight trips let students explore destinations further afield. Cultural trips may include Nice and Monaco, Venice, or Rome. Adventure trips explore the natural terrain around Zermatt, Interlaken, or Andermatt. Students stay for one or two nights. These trips are at an extra cost.

My daughter had the time of her life. She enjoyed it to the fullest. Organization was fantastic. She enjoyed her Filmmaking class as well as windsurfing and hiking. What she loved the most, though, was the diverse backgrounds of the students and the friendships she forged.

HSP Parent

Play

Afternoons at HSP are devoted to sports, the arts, outdoor adventures, and other activities. Go windsurfing, paddleboarding, sailing, or swimming on Lake Lugano; play tennis, soccer, basketball, or volleyball; or improve your fitness and flexibility with yoga or Pilates. 

Special Sports

Sports clubs are available at an extra cost. You may choose to participate in sports such as Milan Academy Scuola Calcio, which offers the opportunity to work with coaches from the renowned AC Milan Club; in Crossfit, a program consisting of aerobic exercise, calisthenics, and weightlifting; in Tennis Academy with first-rate instructors in personalized lessons; in Golf by playing beautiful courses in Italy and Switzerland; or in Horseback Riding through the remarkable Ticino terrain. Special sports are dependent on sufficient enrollment.

Sports clubs are available at an extra cost. Students may choose to participate in sports such as Milan Academy Scuola Calcio, which offers the opportunity to work with coaches from the renowned AC Milan Club; in CrossFit, a program consisting of aerobic exercise, calisthenics, and weightlifting; in Tennis Academy with first-rate instructors in personalized lessons; Sailing and Waterskiing on Lake Lugano; and in Golf by playing beautiful courses in Italy and Switzerland. And new for this year, The World of Formula 1 explores the exciting world of racing. Sports clubs are dependent on sufficient enrollment.

The strongest aspects of the program are the friendships they make and the extracurricular activities. We love how the program naturally has the students interact. Thank you for the amazing memories and the unbelievable dedication from your staff. It is not easy managing teenagers and they did an amazing job!

HSP Parent

Grow

One of the most important aspects of HSP is friendship, and global friendships help us become global citizens. Where else can students meet peers from more than 60 countries who quickly become a second family?

The boarding program at HSP reflects the tradition of TASIS as one of the world’s most exclusive boarding schools. Students are housed in spacious dorms on campus, and after a structured day of learning and sports, they enjoy an array of fun evening activities together.

Above all, HSP students are immersed in the values that TASIS holds most dear—culture, wisdom, knowledge, and truth—as they strive to unlock their full potential.
 

 

 

HSP Daily Schedule

Mornings

Academic Classes x4 hours
(English, Academic Writing, French, IB Prep, Lean Startup, Fine Art, Musical Theater, Digital Art, Filmmaking, Architecture & Design, La Cucina Italiana)

Discovery Class x1 hour
(natural history, graphic design, songwriting, science)

Afternoons

Play a sport, practice yoga, rehearse for a musical—afternoons are for sports, the arts, and outdoor adventures. Afternoons are a time to stretch our bodies and our minds.

Evenings

After dinner activities range from formal dances to group games, cinema nights to ice cream socials. This is a time for relaxing and enjoying each other’s company.

Weekends

Day trips include city breaks, adventure trips, and visits to nearby lidos. Overnight trips, at an extra cost, explore destinations in Switzerland, France, and Italy.

HSP Daily Schedule (approximate)
08:15 – 09:00 Breakfast
09:15 – 09:30 Morning meeting
09:35 – 14:35 Class and discovery period with a break for lunch
14:45 – 18:00 Afternoon sports
18:25 – 19:00 Dinner
19:30 – 19:45 Evening meeting
19:45 – 22:00 Evening activities and/or free time
22:00 Return to dorms, check-in
23:00 Lights out

TASIS Students Deliver Two Outstanding Summer Arts Festivals

Student artists closed down each session of the 2023 TASIS Summer Programs with a wonderful celebration of the arts. See an archive of the amazing performances and exhibitions.

Learn more

2022 Session 1 Arts Festival

Middle School Program (MSP)

Ages 11–13

  • Choose one primary academic course and one "discovery class" for the duration of the session (approx. 3-4 hours per day)

  • Select two sports or activities in the afternoons (approx. 2 hours per day)

  • Participate in weekend day-trips (included in tuition) or overnight excursions (additional cost) throughout Switzerland and Italy

Courses

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
MSP (Ages 11–13)

MSP offers students the chance to improve their confidence and skills in English. The program language is English, so TASIS offers an immersive language experience for children. Our teachers make learning fun by providing interactive, challenging activities, and the MSP environment compels students to practice their English during sports, activities, meals, and excursions. Courses cater to all levels.

Read More about English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Creative Writing
MSP (Ages 11–13)

Designed for native speakers and students who attend a school where the primary language is English, this course encourages young writers to express themselves in English. Students learn about literary devices, shaping narratives, and persuasive writing, and they practice writing fiction, essays, and poetry. They also strengthen their creative thinking skills with discussions on AI and the importance of original and creative thinking.

Read More about Creative Writing
Italian
MSP (Ages 11–13)

Ticino, the only Italian-speaking Swiss canton, is the perfect environment for learning conversational Italian. Students build their vocabulary and learn to write about topics in the areas of fashion, food, art, and culture. Courses include beginner and intermediate levels. 

Read More about Italian
French
MSP (Ages 11–13)

Students learn from native speakers who are dedicated to helping them gain confidence in their skills. They have the opportunity to go on trips to the French-speaking part of Switzerland that provide a chance to use the language with locals. 

Read More about French
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math)
MSP (Ages 11–13)

This STEAM course integrates concepts that are usually taught as separate subjects and emphasizes the application of knowledge to real-life situations following a project-based learning approach. Classes are based around finding solutions and connections to real-world problems. Students will create a digital Engineering Notebook to inspire them and work with every day in class as they approach obstacles, learn new skills, and examine components that shape their lives in electronics, coding, and engineering design. Projects include developing a 3D-printed micro-drone and programming Arduino boards.

Read More about STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math)
Musical Theater
MSP (Ages 11–13)

In this one-of-a-kind course, students engage in high-quality acting, singing, and dancing classes, working alongside professional teaching artists. Students who are more interested in the production side of theater may choose to focus on costume design, lighting, sound design, and production design. All students are encouraged to be involved in the final performance at the Summer Arts Festival. Note that there is a minimum language requirement for this track.

Read More about Musical Theater
Digital Photography
MSP (Ages 11–13)

An experienced photographer works with students who are looking to make every photograph a better one. The curriculum focuses on camera features, composition, lighting techniques, and image processing, and the class takes various trips to scenic locations around Ticino. Students must bring their own DSLR camera. 

Read More about Digital Photography

 

 

 

Learn

 

Stretch your mind and develop new skills with first-rate teachers and inquisitive students from around the globe. Each student selects one of the following courses and focuses on that subject for 10–15 hours per week. Students also choose an afternoon Discovery class created by our teachers to share their passions, covering topics ranging from health and well-being to book club to podcasting.

 

“My son’s experience was excellent. It was his first time away from home and the staff did a great job of helping him adjust and get comfortable during the first week.

MSP parent

Students Write About Their Experiences at the TASIS Summer Programs

Students who attended the first session of the Middle School Program (MSP) or the High School Program (HSP) wrote reflections about academic clubs, outdoor adventures, cultural trips, the TASIS campus, the diversity of the student body, and more. See examples of their work below.

Learn more

Explore

Climb up a mountain and take a zip-line down. Jump off a rock while canyoning. Pose with a peacock in a garden on Lago Maggiore. Watch an opera in Verona’s Roman amphitheater. Taste fresh cheese and olive oil in Tuscany. MSP offers travel experiences that open your mind and broaden your world.

 

Day Trips

Day trips include exciting destinations a short drive from campus. Cultural tours include cities like Lucerne and Milan, the Alpine village of Engelberg, and the lush, genteel Borromean Islands and Villa Balbianello. Adventurous students can enjoy rafting, canyoning, and hiking trips. Or students can relax while visiting the Brissago lido or swimming at Val Verzasca. All day trips are included in the cost of tuition, and students return to campus at the end of the day.

Overnight Trips

Overnight trips, available at an extra cost, give students a chance to explore destinations further afield. Trips might include ice climbing and hiking in the Alpine village of Andermatt, attending an opera in Verona, or spending time on the beautiful Italian Riviera. 

Play

During afternoons, MSP students have a Sports track. Options may include archery, tennis, windsurfing, climbing, waterskiing, volleyball, and more, ensuring that students spend time exercising and being active.

Those looking to take their athletic skills to the next level can join an MSP Sports Club. Students can train with professional soccer coaches from the renowned AC Milan Club in the Milan Academy Scuola Calcio, refine their tennis skills, or hone their golf games. Participation is at an extra cost.

Most students also take part in singing classes three times per week to prepare songs to perform at the Final Night celebration at the end of the session.

Every evening, students participate in activities that are fun and challenging and offer them a chance to get to know their peers better. These include cultural events, games, sports, and a semi-formal dance.
 

Learn more about MSP Special Sports

Waterskiing Club

In the waterskiing sports club, students learn the basics of waterskiing, such as how to get up on the skis, stay balanced, and turn. They also learn about water safety and how to be a responsible boat passenger. As they progress, they learn more advanced skills, such as slalom skiing, jumping, and trick skiing.

Cost:
Session One: CHF 500
Session Two: CHF 450

Summer Program Tennis Camp

In the sailing sports club, students learn the basics of sailing, such as how to rig a boat, sail upwind and downwind, and tack and jibe. They also learn about water safety and how to be a responsible boat captain. As they progress, they learn more advanced skills, such as racing, cruising, and navigation.

Cost:
Session One: CHF 300
Session Two: CHF 250

MSP AC Milan Soccer Camp

All students have the exceptional opportunity to work under coaches from the renowned Milan Academy Scuola Calcio as they improve their ball control and skills. Players are issued an exclusive Milan Academy soccer kit.

Cost:
Session One: CHF 630
Session Two: CHF 530

Golf Club

Golf Club is designed for young golfers who are looking to improve their game. Students play two times per week and practice their skills on the driving range, pitch-and-putt, and main course at the nearby Lugano Golf Club. Equipment can be provided if necessary. Limited to five students.

Cost:
Session One: CHF 1000
Session Two: CHF 800

Summer Program Tennis Camp

Tennis Club is for all students who wish to enhance and improve their existing skills. Students are issued a kit and are expected to bring their own racquet. Coach-to-student ratio is 1:5, with a maximum of 20 students.

Cost:
Session One: CHF 700
Session Two: CHF 500

Grow

Meet new friends from around the globe while exploring some of the most beautiful and exciting areas in Europe, challenging yourself physically, and expanding your horizons in the classroom. MSP will broaden your world.

Each week at MSP we focus on a theme that encourages age-appropriate growth and development. Week one focuses on teamwork, week two centers on challenging yourself, and week three gives students a chance to share their work or talent with others.

The boarding program at MSP reflects the tradition of TASIS as one of the world’s most exclusive boarding schools. Students are housed in dormitories that give them the opportunity to be away from home in a nurturing, structured environment. Roommates are from countries and cultures different from one another, encouraging cultural exchange and global friendships.  

MSP Daily Schedule

Mornings

Academic Classes x4 hours
(English, Academic Writing, Italian, French, STEAM, Musical Theater, Digital Photography)

Discovery Class x1 hour
(natural history, graphic design, songwriting, science)

Afternoons

Exciting afternoon sports and activities include sports on land and water, from windsurfing to archery to volleyball. Most afternoons end with a dip at a nearby lido or lake.

Evenings

Cultural events, group games, a semi-formal dance, a World Cup soccer tournament—evening activities give MSP students a chance to come together and try new things.

Weekends

Riviera hiking to ice climbing, museum visits to canyoning, Alpine villages to cosmopolitan cities. Day trips include both cultural and outdoor adventures, and overnight trips explore destinations throughout France, Italy, and Switzerland.

MSP Daily Schedule (approximate)
07:45 – 08:15 Breakfast
08:25 – 08:30 Morning Meeting
08:30 – 11:30 Classes and Music
11:30 – 12:05 Lunch
12:30 – 13:30 Discovery Class
13:30 – 17:00 Afternoon Activities and Sports
17:00 – 17:30 Dinner preparation
17:30 – 18:15 Family-Style Dinner
18:15 – 20:45 Evening Activity
20:45 – 21:00 Evening Meeting (in dorms)
21:00 – 22:00 Free time/showers
22:00 – 22:15 Quiet Time
22:15 Lights out

Le Château des Enfants (CDE)

Ages 7–10

  • Choose between English, French, or Italian as main language course (approx. 2 hours per day), take part in daily STEAM classes 

  • Select a morning sport or activity (optional tennis or AC Milan Calcio lessons at additional cost)

  • Explore Switzerland on day-trips and cultural visits, and participate in (optional) camping adventure

 

Learn more about Château des Enfants (CDE)

Learn

Diverse. Nurturing. Fun. At CDE, our goal is to encourage your natural curiosity. Learn alongside new friends from around the world while being immersed in languages, music, science, movement, and the arts. 

Learn more about CDE Classes

Courses

Every CDE student studies one of our three language offerings for about two hours each day with passionate educators from around the world. Classes are highly active, student-centric, and cooperative, and they include cultural elements alongside language use. 


English as an Additional Language (EAL)
CDE (Ages 7–10)

CDE offers a truly immersive English-language learning experience. English is the language of instruction and communication program-wide, and the courses offer students time to practice and build on their existing skills. Class sizes are small and cater to beginning, intermediate, and advanced learners.

Read More about English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Italian
CDE (Ages 7–10)

CDE Italian classes are immersed in the culture and language of Ticino, the only Italian-speaking Swiss canton. This course teaches vocabulary and phrases that children can use when off-campus (learning how to order gelato is a favorite) as well as Italian culture. It is designed for beginning or intermediate learners.

Read More about Italian
French
CDE (Ages 7–10)

This course introduces students to a variety of French-speaking countries and cultures while focusing on vocabulary and phrases that help students build their confidence. This course is designed for beginning or intermediate learners.

Read More about French
Performing Arts
CDE (Ages 7–10)

Talented performing arts professionals challenge students’ creativity in singing, dancing, drama, musical theater, percussion, and ukulele! Children prepare an original musical and songs to perform at the Summer Arts Festival.

Read More about Performing Arts

Explore

Observe the skies at a local planetarium. Hike high above beautiful Lake Lugano. Explore the depths of an ancient cave. Watch Swiss chocolatiers work their magic. Visit the historical Bellinzona castles. CDE gives students the unique opportunity to explore Switzerland while forming strong bonds of friendship with peers from around the world.

All students take part in weekday excursions that explore beautiful Ticino. Taken with their teacher and classmates, these field trips connect to the classroom curriculum. Past favorites have included visiting the Locarno Falconeria, seeing the bear caves on Monte Generoso, taking nature walks on San Salvatore, and pedal boating on Lake Lugano.

On Saturdays, boarding students take weekend trips where they travel to destinations further afield. Destinations change each summer but have included the Swiss Transport Museum in Lucerne, the Parco San Grato botanical gardens in Corona, Lido Locarno, and a rainy-day favorite, the Splash & Spa water park in Rivera! On Sundays our boarders take part in two half-day weekend clubs that allow them to play and learn in creative and exciting ways. Popular clubs have included tie-dying t-shirts, nature photography, kayaking, creating board games, and a DIY Spa Day…the opportunities are endless!

One of the highlights of the summer is a camping trip to a site in the foothills of the Alps, just 25 minutes from campus. The trip helps children build confidence as they help with setting up tents and preparing meals—and even learn to make S’mores by a campfire! Throughout the years, CDE has taken thousands of students camping, many for their very first time. All boarding students camp overnight while CDE day students have the choice to camp overnight at no additional cost.

Play

Play is an integral part of childhood. We believe in children having a choice of activities that, to quote TASIS Founder M. Crist Fleming, “stretch them in all areas.” Our activities are carefully curated to appeal to children of all personalities and interests with the goal of them trying new things too. 

Morning Activities

Morning activities at CDE focus on fitness and movement. These include sports (kickball, dodgeball, cooperative games), outdoor activities (hiking, field games, local park visits), and swimming.

Sports Clubs
As an alternative to our morning activities, students can enroll in sports clubs that take place at the same time. These are at an additional cost and are in lieu of our morning activities. Possible options include Milan Academy Scuola Calcio, featuring coaches from the distinguished club AC Milan, and Tennis Junior Camp for beginner players with Lugano-based professional coaches. Horseback riding and paddleboarding are offered as Sunday activities for boarding students.

Afternoon Activities

Afternoons at CDE are filled with creativity and hands-on learning through the arts and sciences. These activities allow children to grow in courage and confidence as they express themselves in new ways.

All students take part in regular Tutti Singing classes to prepare songs to perform at the end of the session.

Activities on offer have included Culinary Arts, Art, Crafts, Coding & Robotics, Construction & Design, Music Mixup, Dance, and Drama Games—all of which challenge children to try something new or learn a skill they can take home with them!

CDE Musical
Young performers may choose to audition for the CDE musical. Rehearsals take place at the same time as our afternoon activities. Parents with students in the musical are invited for a special performance during the Summer Arts Festival at the end of each session.

Grow

CDE is proud to attract students from dozens of countries, truly bringing the world to your child. Our young learners delight in learning about each other’s cultures. They continuously grow in their understanding of their place in this world, as both individuals and as global citizens. Staffed by caring and dedicated educators, the CDE program is a vibrant and intimate community that reflects the ethos of the TASIS schools by encouraging children to respect and learn from one another.

CDE Daily Schedule

Mornings

Every morning, CDE students spend two hours learning English, French, or Italian. All children also attend an hour of STEAM class. Morning activities focus on fitness and movement, activities such as yoga or hiking, tennis, soccer, or swimming.

Afternoons

Afternoons at CDE are filled with creativity and hands-on learning through the arts and sciences. Children choose electives that focus on the arts and sciences.

Weekends

Boarding students take part in off-campus trips and activities every weekend, including adventures to nearby mountains and cities. 

CDE Daily Schedule (approximate)
07:45  Boarding students: wake up, morning routine
08:00 Boarding students: breakfast & phone calls home (after the first week)
08:30 Day students are dropped off
08:40 All students: Morning Meeting
09:00 Language classes
10:30 Morning activities & sports clubs
12:15 Lunch
12:45 Rest time
13:45 Tutti Singing
14:30 STEAM Hour
15:30 Afternoon activities
17:30 Day students are picked up
17:30 Boarding students eat dinner
18:00 Evening activity (Popular activities include Cultural Night performances, water balloon Battleship, a Dorm Party, and Counselor Hide-and-Seek.)
21:00 Lights out

Minnows

Ages 4–6

CDE Photo Gallery

Summer Writing Course

Writing

Summer STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) Course

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math)

Summer Camp Activities

Activities

Summer Camping

Camping

Pedal Boats

Pedal Boats

Summer Soccer club

Soccer club

Summer Writing Courses

Writing Courses

Summer Science class

STEAM Class

Summer Musical Theater

Musical Theater

Summer Art Class

Art Class

Cooking

Cooking

Language Class

Language Class

Learn

It’s never too early to become a global citizen! Minnows spend their days immersed in a creative, engaging, interactive classroom environment and quickly become a tight-knit community of diverse learners.

The Minnows language program uses a child-directed, whole-brain approach. Our small classes focus on the spoken language, and teachers are encouraged to be as creative as possible, using movement and hands-on activities. Children learn basic vocabulary and use words while on trips off-campus. Minnows also practice writing and can even learn to read simple sentences. The curriculum is constantly changing to accommodate how quickly the children are learning, with the aim of building confident language-learners.

Minnows can enroll in Italian, French, or English courses, and the ultimate goal is to make children excited about learning a foreign language and encourage them to want to learn more!

Students also have a weekly STEAM lesson provided by a STEAM-certified teacher during their language class time. They also participate in STEAM activities throughout the week.

Our Minnows program is suitable for children who are successful in group settings. Please note that our program and facilities are not equipped to support children with special needs who require one-on-one support.

Grow

It never ceases to amaze us just how much a young child can change and grow in only a few weeks. The children learn about each other and create their own community in which each child is valued and supported by one another. We look forward to welcoming you and your children to the Minnows!

Explore

On campus, the Minnows choose from a variety of open-ended activities that are designed to support the vocabulary and themes presented in their language classes. These include arts and crafts, group games, singing, cooking, and playing in our outdoor playground. Special events such as Pirate Day, a Renaissance Fair, and a Science Fair are perennial favorites.

Off-campus, Minnows take weekly field trips that explore the local area. Favorite field trips have included visiting an Alpine farm and learning facts about the animals, going on a nature walk in the Montagnola woods, touring downtown Lugano, visiting Swissminiatur Park, seeing the Bellinzona castles, and hosting a visit from the Apiary and discovering fun facts about bees.

Minnows have the opportunity to attend as either a Standard Day or Extended Day student:

Standard Day
Our Standard Day program is Monday–Friday from 8:45 to 15:00 in our beautiful Early Childhood Center, Al Focolare. Just 200 meters down the hill from the main TASIS campus, Al Focolare is a spacious and inviting location for learning.

Extended Day
Extended Day Minnows attend Monday–Friday from 8:45 to 17:30, and their days are very active with walks, trips, and science projects. Four- and five-year-old Minnows are welcome to try the Extended Day program, but if it is not a good fit they may be asked to shift to the Standard Day program. 

Play

In the Minnows program, play and creativity are the key ingredients in our recipe for success. Both ingredients encourage interaction, problem-solving, teachable moments, experimentation, innovation, and, of course, laughter. Above all, play bonds children and enhances verbal and non-verbal communication. 

Students have the opportunity for open-ended play during choice time, where they are encouraged to choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Outdoor choices focus on gross motor skills and may include playground play, sandbox construction, or kicking a soccer ball with a friend. Indoor choices focus on fine motor skills and are typically teacher-directed sensory and art experiences.

Minnows Daily Schedule

Mornings

Our youngest students are introduced to Italian, French, or English through play, music, games, and hands-on activities. Mornings include singing class, arts and crafts, and language classes.

Afternoons

After lunch our Minnows have a rest period, then continue learning vocabulary through science classes and special projects, such as preparing for Circus Day and a Renaissance Fair. The Minnows also explore the local area including the Bellinzona Castles, touring downtown Lugano, and visiting Swissminiatur.

Minnows Daily Schedule 
Partial-Day Program (ages 4-6)
08:45–09:00 Arrival at Focolare
09:00–09:25 Morning meeting
09:30–10:45 Language class
10:45–11:00 Snack
11:00–12:00 Morning Activities such as outdoor play, art, indoor play, and STEAM activities. Friday mornings are for special activities such as Circus Day, Pirate Day, Farm Day, Expedition Day, Renaissance Fair, and Science Fair.
12:00–12:30 Music
12:30–13:10 Lunch
13:15–13:30 Story time
13:00–14:15 Rest time
14:15–15:00 Free outdoor play
15:00 Standard Day Minnows dismissal
15:00–15:30 Outdoor play/Water play
15:30–16:15 Organized PM Activities such as working with clay, author studies, picture-book writing (for 6-year-olds), yoga, tinkering lab, science, STEAM, water games, scavenger hunt, obstacle course, drama, puppet-making, origami club, or visiting the public playground near to Al Focolare
16:15–16:30 Snack
16:30–17:15 Continue with organized PM activities
17:20–17:30 Extended Day Minnows dismissal at Focolare

Other TASIS Summer Programs

TASIS England Summer Program

Ages 10-17 • United Kingdom

 

  • Courses in Geometry, Writing Enhancement, STEM, English Literature as Movies, Debate & Leadership Skills, Knights Castles & Crop Circles, British Council accredited English Language lessons, IELTS Review, TV Production, London Through a Lens, Fashion & Textile Design, Drawing & 3D Design, International Business (for ages 13–17)
  • Reading Adventures, Earth Discovery, and Leadership (for ages 10-12)
  • Weekend travel throughout Britain
  • Located on a beautiful campus 18 miles southwest of London

Les Tapies Summer Program

Ages 13-18 • France

 

  • Hands-on study in architecture, painting & drawing, and photography
  • Excursions draw on the cultural richness of the South of France
  • Idyllic location in a beautifully-restored, 17th-century stone hamlet in the Ardeche

TASIS Dorado Summer Program

Ages 12-17 • Peurto Rico

 

  • Located on the TASIS Dorado campus in beautiful Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico
  • Spanish Language and Marine Life & Environmental Studies
  • Oceanography and Ecology course associated with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Center
  • Excursions explore the cultural riches of the island

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