Summer Programs

Our Programs

Our programs in Lugano offer students aged 4–17 exciting, dynamic programs that take advantage of our location in the heart of Europe. Students in each age group select one primary course which they will study for several hours each day. Optional overnight trips and sports clubs can be added to the program at an extra cost. Sports, music, arts, activities, and weekend day-trips are included in the program tuition, and will be chosen upon arrival to campus. 

High School Program

High School Program (HSP)

  • Intensive courses in languages, visual and performing arts, academic writing, IB prep, and more
  • Wide range of sports and outdoor adventures
  • Cultural excursions to some of Europe’s most beautiful locations

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Middle School Program (MSP)

Middle School Program (MSP)

  • Intensive courses in languages and visual and performing arts
  • Wide range of sports, outdoor activities, and elective academic offerings
  • Cultural excursions to exciting destinations around Europe

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Château des Enfants (CDE)

Château des Enfants

  • Courses in languages, science, STEAM, and visual and performing arts
  • Exciting array of clubs, sports, and outdoor activities
  • Fun and educational trips to a number of nearby destinations

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Minnows

Minnows

  • Choose between English, French, or Italian as main language course, take part in STEAM, arts, music and dance
  • Take nature walks and explore our beautiful surroundings
  • Explore Ticino on day-trips and cultural visits including museums, falconry, and organic farms

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Discover our Courses, Sports, and Activities

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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.

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Italian
Minnows (Ages 4–6)

Minnows 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.

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French
Minnows (Ages 4–6)

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.

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English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Minnows (Ages 4–6)

Minnows 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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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Waterskiing Club
MSP (Ages 11–13)

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

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Sailing Club
MSP (Ages 11–13)

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

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Golf Club
MSP (Ages 11–13)

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

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Milan Academy Scuola Calcio
MSP (Ages 11–13)

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

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Tennis Club
MSP (Ages 11–13)

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

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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.

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Tennis Club
HSP (Ages 14–17)

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

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Golf Club
HSP (Ages 14–17)

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

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Crossfit
HSP (Ages 14–17)

Get in shape fast with the renowned strength and conditioning program that consists of aerobic exercise, calisthenics, and weightlifting. Limited to 16 students.

Cost:
Session One: CHF 200
Session Two: CHF 150

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Milan Academy Scuola Calcio
HSP (Ages 14–17)

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

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Milan Academy Scuola Calcio
CDE (Ages 7–10)

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 500
Session Two: CHF 400

Read More about Milan Academy Scuola Calcio
Tennis Club
CDE (Ages 7–10)

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 400
Session Two: CHF 350

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Paddleboarding
CDE (Ages 7–10)

Boarding students may join Paddleboarding (SUP) as a Sunday club and learn the basics of this fun and relaxing sport. Limited to 6 students.

Cost:
Session One: CHF 300
Session Two: CHF 200

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Horseback Riding
CDE (Ages 7–10)

Boarding students have the opportunity to participate in Horseback Riding as a Sunday club. They will learn how to care for the horses and practice trail riding. Appropriate for beginner riders and those interested in learning about horses. Limited to 6 students.

Cost:
Session One: CHF 400
Session Two: CHF 300

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Waterskiing
HSP (Ages 14–17)

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

Read More about Waterskiing
Sailing
HSP (Ages 14–17)

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

Read More about Sailing
Wakeboarding
HSP (Ages 14–17)

The wakeboarding sports club will teach students the basics of wakeboarding, including how to start, stay balanced, and turn. Water safety is important and students will learn how to be a responsible boat passenger. As they progress, they can learn advanced skills such as switching and jumping.

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

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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. 

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International Baccalaureate (IB)® Preparation Course
HSP (Ages 14–17)

This course is designed for students entering their first year of the IB. Students learn about the three core components of the IB program (Theory of Knowledge; the Extended Essay; and Creativity, Activity, Service) and develop their research, presentation, and academic writing skills. The class also discusses how to stay on track in the IB Diploma Program through realistic goal-setting and time management. This course is limited to native speakers or near-fluent students who are taught primarily in English during the academic year. A laptop is required.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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)
Weekend Clubs
CDE (Ages 7–10)

On Saturdays, boarding students take part in a number of exciting weekend clubs that are designed to teach children new skills in small groups. Recent activities have included paddleboarding, French cooking, landscape watercolor painting, hiking, and puppet-making.

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Evening Activities
CDE (Ages 7–10)

After dinner, counselors lead the children in activities that focus on teamwork and friendship. Favorite events include a luau and dance, a scavenger hunt across campus, the Ultimate Dance Off, a Harry Potter night, a game of Capture the Flag, and a Carnivale put on by the Middle School Program.

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Visual Arts
CDE (Ages 7–10)

Special visual art classes allow children to express creativity through a variety of mediums, from painting to photography to ceramics. Projects are displayed at a Visual Arts Exhibition during the final week of each session.

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Robotics
CDE (Ages 7–10)

Once a week, students visit the state-of-the-art Campo Science Center for an exciting exposure to the principles of robotics. Each session is designed to help them develop a passion for programming, problem-solving, engineering, and creativity. Working with their peers and teacher, students explore engineering concepts through teamwork, construction, and imagination.

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Interactive Viewbook

Our interactive viewbook provides a deeper look at our Summer Programs. It is an immersive visual experience featuring photos, videos, and stories.

 

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