Canton of Glarus school system: enrolment and cycles (cross-border guide)

Choose the right school for your children in Canton Glarus
Context
In short
- Compulsory schooling in the Canton of Glarus is 9 years
- Elementary school lasts 4 years
- Middle school lasts 5 years
- Compulsory schooling also includes vocational education
The primary school in the canton of Glarus
Primary school in Canton Glarus is compulsory for all students between the ages of 6 and 10. The duration of elementary school is 4 years, during which students receive basic training in subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics and science. In addition, students also receive hands-on training in manual activities such as woodworking, weaving and cooking.
Primary school in the Canton of Glarus is organized into two cycles: the lower cycle (Grundschule) and the upper cycle (Mittelschule). The lower cycle lasts 2 years and focuses on basic training in subjects such as reading, writing and mathematics. The upper cycle lasts 2 years and focuses on training in subjects such as science, technology and foreign languages.
The middle school in the Canton of Glarus
Middle school in the Canton of Glarus is compulsory for all students between the ages of 11 and 16. The duration of middle school is 5 years, during which students receive more specialized training in subjects such as science, technology and foreign languages. In addition, students also receive hands-on training in manual tasks such as programming, mechanics and electronics.
Middle school in the Canton of Glarus is organized into two cycles: the lower cycle (Mittelschule) and the upper cycle (Gymnasium). The lower cycle lasts 2 years and focuses on training in subjects such as science and technology. The upper cycle lasts 3 years and focuses on training in subjects such as mathematics, physics and chemistry.
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Operational details
Key facts
- What: Schooling in Canton Glarus
- When: From the age of 6
- Where: Public schools throughout the canton
- Who: All children residing in Canton Glarus
- Amount: 4 years of elementary school and 5 years of middle school
The educational system of the Canton of Glarus is one of the most important aspects of its educational policy. The canton has introduced an educational obligation that affects all children residing in the territory. This obligation was established by the law on the school system of the Canton of Glarus, approved on 1 January 2015.
Under this law, all children between the ages of 6 and 16 must attend a public school. This means that parents do not have the right to choose not to enroll their children in a public school. In the event of non-compliance, parents may be subject to penalties.
Elementary school is compulsory for all children between the ages of 6 and 10. This school has a duration of 4 years and covers the following topics: mathematics, German language, English language, history and geography, physical education and art.
Middle school is compulsory for all children between the ages of 11 and 16. This school has a duration of 5 years and covers the following topics: mathematics, German language, English language, history and geography, physical education, art and music.
The Canton of Glarus has also established rules for enrolment in public schools.
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Key points
Canton Glarus school system: enrolment and cycles
Action
- Step 1: Check if your children are eligible for compulsory schooling in Canton Glarus. To do this, check if they are at least 5 years old as of January 1 of the current school year. In addition, please ensure that you and your spouse (if applicable) reside in the Canton of Glarus or that you are employed full-time in this territory. If these requirements are met, your children are eligible for compulsory schooling.
- Step 2: Enroll your children in cantonal public schools. You can do this online or at your local school office. Be sure to provide all required information, including your personal information, that of your children, and proof of residency.
- Step 3: Follow the instructions for enrollment and tuition. Tuition fees vary by age and type of education. For the 2022-2023 school year, the annual fee for compulsory schooling is CHF 1,235 for each child, while for children with disabilities it is CHF 820. Make sure you pay your tuition by the date indicated, otherwise you may incur a penalty of CHF 200.
- Step 4: Check if your children are eligible for scholarships. The Canton of Glarus offers scholarships to deserving children who cannot afford to pay school fees. To be eligible, children must have a household income of less than CHF 80,000 for the year
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