Switzerland Sekundarstufe I Subjects: Foreign Languages

In Switzerland's Sekundarstufe I (lower secondary school), foreign language education is a key component of the curriculum. Students are generally required to learn two foreign languages: a second national language and English.

Second National Language:

Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Depending on the linguistic region of the student, the second national language learned will be one of the other three national languages. For example, a student in the German-speaking region might learn French or Italian as their second national language. The aim is to foster multilingualism and promote understanding between different linguistic communities within the country.

English:

English is a compulsory foreign language in Sekundarstufe I across all linguistic regions of Switzerland. Its inclusion in the curriculum reflects the growing importance of English as a global language.

Third National Language (Optional):

Some students may choose to learn a third national language, although this is not compulsory. This option allows students to further develop their language skills and deepen their understanding of Swiss culture and diversity.

Implementation:

The implementation of foreign language education in Sekundarstufe I varies slightly across cantons, which have significant autonomy in educational matters. However, the general framework of two compulsory foreign languages (a second national language and English) is consistent throughout the country.