Supporting Your Child in Finding Their Best School Fit

The first weeks of a new school are rarely without challenges. Every child needs time to adapt, make friends, and learn new routines. These bumps in the road matter: they build resilience, independence, and problem‑solving skills that last well beyond school years. But resilience doesn’t grow in isolation. Research shows that children thrive when they feel both safe and stretched. The right school environment offers that balance: caring adults who support, peers who welcome, and structures that encourage persistence without overwhelming. When that balance is present, students usually find their place, their rhythm, and their confidence. When it isn’t, even the most resilient children can begin to lose motivation or feel disconnected. That’s when parents may start asking whether the current environment is helping their child grow, or holding them back.

Recognising When Extra Support Might Help

Changing schools or making adjustments is rarely a quick or impulsive decision. It usually follows a period of observation and a growing sense that something is not quite working. A child may show ongoing reluctance, social difficulties, or academic progress that hasn’t taken shape. In some cases, the signs are subtle. School may feel heavier than it should, or a child goes through the motions without curiosity or joy. Every child needs resilience, but sometimes a different environment helps them feel lighter, more connected, and ready to move forward with confidence.

What Support Looks Like at CDL

Every student arrives with a story. We begin by listening. Once a family reaches out, we take the time to understand their child’s background, strengths, and what they are hoping for in a new school environment. From there, we plan together—not only for academic alignment but also for a confident start that feels welcoming.

Primary School: teachers lead classroom integration, encourage early friendships, and keep parents connected through platforms like ClassDojo.

Secondary School: a student buddy helps new arrivals navigate campus and feel at home from day one. Advisors and teachers follow progress closely in both academics and wellbeing.

Families: are invited to New Parent Coffee Mornings, introduced to our Parent Faculty Association, and connected with parent buddies where possible.

Teachers are briefed before the student arrives, and our teams follow up in the early weeks to see how each child is settling—socially, emotionally, and academically.

Why Families Choose Collège du Léman

There is no single path that brings families to CDL. Some are relocating and looking for continuity and community. Others are seeking greater flexibility in curriculum or language. Many are simply looking for a school where their child feels seen, supported, and encouraged. Parents who join our community mid‑year often tell us they find the combination of support, flexibility, and global belonging they were looking for:

Language flexibility: English, French, or bilingual pathways—with strong support for transitions.

Multiple diploma routes: IB Diploma, IB Career‑related Programme, French Baccalaureate, Swiss Maturité, and American High School Diploma with APs.

Wellbeing at the centre: advisory programmes, pastoral care, and learning support woven into daily life.

Global community: 120+ nationalities, cultural fluency, and worldwide connections through our Nord Anglia Global Campus.

Opportunities beyond academics: from robotics to theatre, Model UN to Duke of Edinburgh, music to sport, students find passions that shape their confidence and next steps.

What to Expect When You Reach Out

Every conversation begins with your child. When you contact our Admissions Team, we start by understanding your current situation and listening to your concerns. Families are invited to visit the campus or schedule a trial day, experiences that often bring clarity and reassurance. We guide you through programme and diploma options and explain what onboarding would look like for your child.

Mid‑year entry is possible. Some year groups have limited places, so starting the conversation early gives your family more time and more options to make the right decision.

When You Are Ready

If settling in feels harder than expected, and you are beginning to reflect on what comes next, we are here to listen.

There is no pressure; we’ll be here for an open conversation and a clear picture of what a new start could look like at CDL. Our goal is not just to welcome new students, but to help every child grow in confidence, adaptability, and belonging, wherever they are on their school journey.

Next Step: Come and See How It Feels

Connect with Admissions Every family’s journey is unique. If you’d like to explore what support, belonging, and the right school fit could look like for your child at CDL, our Admissions Team is here to listen.

Arrange a Visit or Conversation