Question 1

What does Rietberg Montessori School cost?

Accepted Answer

Everything your child needs during the school day is included in the tuition — childcare, lunch, afternoon snack, learning materials and more. We're happy to share the exact fees with you personally; just use our contact form.

Question 2

How large are the classes?

Accepted Answer

That depends on the school stage. In the Children's House, group size is between 20 and 28 children, in the Lower School 24 to 26, and in the Middle School 28 to 32. Each class is supported by 2 to 3 teachers — considerably more than at mainstream schools.

Question 3

Do you prepare children for the Gymnasium entrance exam?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and very well, embedded in regular school life, not as a crash course. From year 4 we deepen mathematics and German in particular; in years 5 and 6, exam-format exercises and mock exams under real conditions are added. Around 43% of the children who register for the exam also pass it (City of Zurich approx. 20%). Just as important: we discuss individually with every family whether Gymnasium really is the right path. Good to know: the preparation lessons for the Gymnasium exam are included in the school fees.

Question 4

Are there grades or report cards?

Accepted Answer

There are no numerical grades through the end of year 5. Instead, we hold two in-depth learning conversations per year with child and parents, based on observation and portfolios. On request, we issue a graded report before the transition.

Question 5

How does registration work?

Accepted Answer

In five steps: registration, first conversation, school tour, trial week (primary school) or settling-in week (Children's House), and contract signing. The whole process typically takes four to six weeks. Registrations are possible year-round, and entry can also take place during the school year.

Question 6

From what age and until when is my child at RMS?

Accepted Answer

We welcome children from age three into the Children's House and accompany them through the end of year 6 of primary school. Many children thus spend nine continuous years with us — a continuity that matters.

Question 7

Is there homework?

Accepted Answer

Not in the Children's House or Lower School. From Middle School onward, there are project-based assignments in moderate amounts — deliberately sized so they can be done during the quiet hour in the afternoon. That leaves time for family, sports and personal pursuits.

Question 8

How much English is taught?

Accepted Answer

English is a fixed part of school life from the first year of Children's House — taught immersively and with an English-speaking teacher on each team. All topics and everyday situations are taught in either German or English (immersion). Both languages are equal parts of daily life.

Question 9

How does Rietberg Montessori School deal with AI?

Accepted Answer

From Middle School, the approach is age-appropriate — as a tool, not as a substitute for one's own thinking.

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