A Summer to Remember: LAS Summer in Switzerland

Summer Journal

View of the Swiss Alps from the Leysin American School Campus
A Summer to Remember: LAS Summer in Switzerland

Every year, Summer in Switzerland students come together from around the world to fill our Alpine campus with energy, laughter, and excitement for the “Summer of a Lifetime.” This summer was no exception! From the very first day, our students were immersed in a vibrant blend of learning, adventure, creativity, and friendship—all set against the spectacular backdrop of the Swiss Alps.

A Warm Welcome
As students arrived, they were greeted by our friendly and passionate staff and introduced to their dorms and “Faculty Families” which are small, diverse groups of same-aged students led by dedicated staff. A signature LAS experience that mirrors our full-year program, Faculty Families help students instantly feel at home by providing smaller groups to engage in conversations and fun activities. In addition to Faculty Families, orientation activities, campus tours, and even a hike up the local mountain (the Berneuse), helped everyone settle in and bond through shared experiences.
 

A Global Classroom in the Mountains
At LAS, experiential learning is at the heart of everything we do, and our summer program takes students to new heights—both literally and figuratively. This summer, students engaged in an incredible variety of academic and enrichment classes, including language acquisition, AI and robotics, visual and performing arts, music, Model United Nations, and more.

Our special leadership programs like the Alpine Leadership Program (ALP) and Experiential Entrepreneurship, challenged students to think boldly, lead confidently, and solve real-world problems. Whether brainstorming impactful solutions to envision a sustainable future, or learning to adapt to diverse alpine environments, our students learned through doing, exploring, and pushing boundaries in a safe and supportive environment. 


Creativity, Connection, and Adventure
Afternoons were alive with hands-on clubs ranging from cooking and baking to robotics and sports. Students expressed themselves through paint, performance, and play, always encouraged to try something new.

Evenings offered a perfect blend of fun and connection, with campfires, themed socials, karaoke, and games. One of the most cherished traditions is Family Day, where summer families select destinations for a full day of exploration and bonding. Hiking scenic trails, laser tag, and chocolate factory tours are just a small sampling of the activities that create memories students will never forget.
 

Fantastic Fridays
Every Friday afternoon, our students indulged in unique and thrilling experiences. Fantastic Fridays give students a break from the usual routine as they immerse themselves in new, exciting activities. Each week brought a new adventure and the chance to explore, laugh, and grow! Some of our exhilarating options included canyoning, paddleboarding, escape rooms, a high ropes course, surfing, and laser tag. 


Excursions Across Switzerland (and Beyond!)
Weekends were a whirlwind of discovery. Our Junior Program students dove into adventures like raft-building on Alpine lakes, exploring the historic beauty of nearby Bern, and learning about engineering at the Transport Museum in Lucerne. With contagious energy and enthusiasm, they fully embraced every opportunity for growth and play.

Meanwhile, our Senior campers set off on breathtaking journeys from marveling at the Matterhorn in Zermatt and walking on air at Glacier 3000, to wandering the elegant streets of Gstaad. Some even ventured into France to spend a magical day in the lakeside town of Annecy, soaking up the sights, markets, and canal-lined charm. These trips offered more than just sightseeing—they fostered independence, curiosity, and cultural appreciation.
 

Celebrating Growth and Saying Goodbye
To recognize the student creativity and effort throughout the summer, we held showcases which highlighted performing arts, visual arts, and academic and leadership presentations. Our final banquet and Summer Family Soirée brought everyone together to share laughs, enjoy new friendships, and celebrate a summer that will be remembered forever.

The past weeks have been a powerful reminder of what happens when young people from around the globe come together to explore, learn, and grow. We have watched students conquer homesickness, discover hidden talents, build meaningful friendships, and step far outside their comfort zones. 


Until Next Summer…
We can't wait to welcome new and returning summer students next summer for another chapter of discovery, connection, and unforgettable adventure, all of which create the summer of a lifetime!