Switzerland Secondary I (Years 7-9) Second Foreign Language (Optional)

In Switzerland, language learning is a key component of the education system. Students in Secondary I (Years 7-9) are typically required to study multiple languages. This includes their local language (which serves as the language of instruction and can be German, French, Italian, or Romansh depending on the region), a second national language, and English.

While 95% of students in Switzerland are taught two foreign languages at the Secondary I level, the specific syllabus details for English and Italian as second foreign language options are not readily available. It is common for English to be taught from the third grade (age 9) onwards. The second national language and English may be introduced at different times depending on the canton and specific school.

The "Lehrplan 21" (Curriculum 21) is a standardized curriculum framework used in German-speaking Switzerland, while French-speaking cantons use the "Plan d'études romand." These frameworks outline learning objectives but may not contain the specific syllabus details for each language.