In addition to increasing the local economy in the short-term by creating jobs and thepurchase of local goods, the schools have a lasting financial impact on Gstaad. For many students, their time here is more than just a several-year sojourn – they fall in love with the Saanenland and even years later, a yearning for this “home away from home” beckons them to return.

Though the majority of the students are boarding, the rise in popularity of day-school programs has prompted many families to settle in the region. Even boarding students at schools like Le Rosey and the John F Kennedy International School often have a chalet or apartment in the Saanenland, in which family members stay to remain close-by. 

To Each (School) His Own

Of the four international schools in the region, each offers a unique educational programme, marrying first-rate academics with cultural and sporting activities. 

“We have many students enrolled in our day-school, and whose families have relocated to the Saanenland specifically for enrolment,” says Headmaster Andrew Croft of the John F Kennedy International School. “Saanen provides the ideal backdrop for a well-rounded education. 

The students participate in a myriad of outdoor activities, as well as being exposed to the region’s traditions and handicrafts; visits to the farmers, cheese-makers and wood-carvers are all part of the cultural programme. In honour of the current Winter Olympics in Sochi, the school has created its own Olympics-inspired event, which has been sponsored by a number of Saanenland businesses, highlighting a strong bond between the local and international.

Smaller, boarding-only schools like the Gstaad International School provide another option for discerning parents.

“We offer personalized education within a strong family atmosphere, where each child is given enough individual attention enabling them to succeed,” says Christopher Sanderson, Headmaster. 

The school recently invested in the Alpine Lodge, where they have built their new campus – a positive aspect for the local economy. 

“We are firmly rooted in the Saanenland and residents have responded very positively to our development plan,” insists Sanderson. “They see the benefit it will bring for employment and business in the area.”

Old timers and Newcomers

The prestigious Le Rosey has decamped to Gstaad each winter for a century. There is even an annual alumni reunion in Gstaad each year for these Roseans, giving old school friends the chance to get together and enjoy themselves. Le Rosey claims it provides its pupils with friends for life and, indeed, once grown, the children’s love for the valley often inspires them to continue to holiday here or build a home in the Saanenland.

The newest addition to the aforementioned trio of private schools in the Saanenland is the Oxford International College Switzerland. Though technically in the nearby Pays d’en Haut, the school’s campus in Château d’Oex is the latest extension of its parent school started in Oxford, UK in 2003. OICS’s innovative programme blends the highly effective academic tutorial system with mentorships between professor and student, with a boutique boarding school atmosphere. 

“It was an easy decision to place such a small and tailored programme here in the region,” states Aaron Schmidtberger, Head of School. “This amazing location, the Swiss reputation for quality education and the existence of other world-renowned schools make it the perfect setting for OICS. We hope to serve both international families and locals here for generations to come.”

Indoors, Outdoors

Not just schools bring students to the area: Summer camps bring short-term students and visitors to the region as well. Lovell Camps, with both their winter and summer programs for children from 2-16 years old welcomes over 400 children from over 30 nationalities to the Saanenland each year. Almost all of the camp’s supplies and activities are provided by local firms, giving an economic boost to the region. Run by the Lovell family, founders of the John F. Kennedy International School, the camps are now hosting the third generation of participants. 

The outdoor activities provided by all the schools and camps are second-to-none. From rock-climbing on the commanding Videmanette to canoeing adventures on Lake Lauenen, the Saanenland’s beauty is on display all year-round. In winter, Eggli is the perfect piste for winter races, while in summer the steep hike to Rellerli is awash with wildflowers. Each and every child lucky enough to experience schooling in the Saanenland is spoilt for choice of an outdoor adventure. 

Back to the Future

Fast-forward twenty years and you’ll find the former students of these private schools are back to stay. Whether for just a few weeks in winter, or for months on end, these adoring alumni return to the Saanenland. Taking advantage of regional fine food and hospitality, as well as the outdoors, they bring their business to the region year after year.

As the next generation of students here graduate and go off to university abroad, the bonds they’ve formed endure. Years may go by, and children blossom into full-grown adults, yet the Saanenland has secured a special place in their hearts and minds. No matter where in the world they may live, this deep-rooted yearning for their “home away from home” beckons them to return – and they do, with open arms.