Choosing a school in the Canton of Solothurn offers parents a wide range of options beyond the public school system. Private schools open up new educational approaches, smaller classes, and flexible care models. This allows children to be supported more individually and parents to be more involved in the learning process. In this article, you’ll get an overview of the legal framework, enrollment, and the different types of private schools in Solothurn.
Table of Contents
- How is the legal framework for private schools in Solothurn regulated?
- Types of private schools in the Canton of Solothurn
- The diversity of educational concepts in the Canton of Solothurn
- A look at selected private schools in the Canton of Solothurn
- Vocational continuing education options in Solothurn
- Costs and subsidization of private schools in Solothurn
- Selection criteria for parents: how to find the right private school for your child
- Conclusion: making the right school choice in Solothurn with good information
Author
Sinan Güzelsahin
Category
Updated
22. April 2026
Located between the Jura and the Aare, the Canton of Solothurn attracts many young families with its historic old towns, rural communities, and a very well-connected infrastructure. Parents and children enjoy a high quality of life here, with short commutes to work, a wide range of leisure activities, and a broad educational offering.
For parents who want more individual educational support for their child beyond what public schools offer, there are various private schools to choose from in the Canton of Solothurn. They follow very different educational approaches and offer highly flexible care and leisure programs.
But how do I recognize the right private school in Solothurn for my child? This guide provides a concise overview of the different private school options in the Canton of Solothurn.
How is the legal framework for private schools in Solothurn regulated?
Private schools must comply with certain framework requirements set by the Office for Primary Education. In Solothurn, all levels and types of private schools require approval. Anyone who wants to establish a private school must submit a formal application to the Office for Primary Education. This is reviewed in detail, and the Cantonal Government then decides whether to grant approval. Only with this official authorization may compulsory-school-age children be taught at the institution.
How parents can enroll their child in a private school in Solothurn
If your child is to attend a cantonal private school in Solothurn, you must first withdraw them from the school management of the responsible public school. If they are to attend an out-of-canton private school, you must also submit a justified application to the Office for Primary Education. Attendance must then be officially approved.
Two terms are helpful to know:
- Substitute school
A substitute school takes over the child’s entire education. It offers the full range of schooling and must meet the requirements of the cantonal curriculum. - Supplementary institution
These private schools offer additional educational programs alongside regular lessons. Supplementary institutions have more flexibility in how they are designed.
Parents can use the official Register of Private Schools of the Canton of Solothurn to see which institutions are currently approved.
Types of private schools in the Canton of Solothurn
In the Canton of Solothurn, parents face an important choice between very different school concepts. They differ mainly in their target group, curriculum, and educational approach. These include, among others:
- Day schools – full-day care including lunch and homework support
- Lower secondary level (Sek I) – private lower secondary schools with smaller classes and individual support
- Bridge years – targeted preparation for apprenticeships or further schooling
- Free-learning concepts – alternative teaching formats with a focus on independence
- Special education schools – specifically designed for children with special needs
- Bilingual models – bilingual teaching to develop intercultural skills
- Vocational continuing education – for teenagers and adults in various fields
The diversity of educational concepts in the Canton of Solothurn
In addition to organizational and subject-related concepts, private schools in the Canton of Solothurn pursue very different educational approaches. The more varied the selection, the more likely you are to find a suitable concept for your child.
- 1. Self-directed learning with autonomy
Students actively shape their learning process and set their own priorities. Teachers primarily act as guides who provide impulses and resources. An example of this concept in another canton is Acton Academy in Aarau. Children can structure their day themselves and work independently on projects. 2. Democratic school models
Decisions about lesson content, projects, and school rules are made together. This helps children learn early on to take responsibility and contribute their opinions constructively. This is also part of everyday life at Acton Academy. Socratic Discussions foster critical thinking, personal responsibility, and teamwork.3. Nature and experiential learning
In many private schools, a significant part of learning takes place outdoors-for example in the school garden, in the forest, or on excursions.4. Bilingual teaching from primary level
Two languages are used equally in lessons. This strengthens language skills and promotes intercultural understanding from an early age.5. Coaching approach and studio sessions
Through individual coaching and creative workshop formats, children work on personal projects and develop the ability to solve problems on their own.
School websites often provide very detailed information about their educational guidelines. It’s worth studying these in detail so you can make an informed decision.
A look at selected private schools in the Canton of Solothurn
What matters most to you when choosing a private school? You should answer this question thoroughly for yourself before looking at the different options. That way, you can rule out certain private schools in advance that don’t match your expectations and add others to your shortlist. Below, we introduce a selection of private schools and their concepts in Solothurn.
k+w School Olten
k+w School Olten is a motivating place to learn that places great value on a family-like atmosphere. Its educational concept is based on individual learning paths, coaching offers, and project-based work. Teaching follows Curriculum 21 and covers primary level, lower secondary level, and a bridge year.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational concept | Level-based teaching, learning studio, coaching, atelier |
| School levels | Primary, lower secondary (Sek I), bridge year |
| Number of students | approx. 120 |
| Location | Olten – easy to reach from Solothurn, Aargau, and Bern |
| Costs | from CHF 20’750 per year, plus teaching materials and a registration fee |
LernStatt School Oberbuchsiten
LernStatt School Oberbuchsiten follows a democratic and free-learning concept in which children from age 4 shape their learning processes independently. State-recognized, it offers an environment where initiative and individual talents take centre stage. In addition to regular schooling, there is also a playgroup and special options for lateral entrants.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational concept | Democratic and free learning, self-directed educational pathways |
| School levels | Kindergarten, primary school, lower secondary (Sek I) |
| Number of students | n/a |
| Location | Oberbuchsiten – easy to reach in the Swiss Plateau |
| Costs: | kindergarten from CHF 600/month, school CHF 1’200/month, lateral entrants from CHF 1’400/month |
Buechi-Schuel Gerlafingen
Buechi-Schuel focuses on a nature-based, experiential concept-learning here happens with head, heart, and hands, embedded in an appreciative community. Although the school is currently closed, its approach is a strong example of free learning spaces in the region.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational concept | Nature-connected, experience-based learning – fostering creativity and self-development |
| School levels | Primary level (Years 1-6) |
| Number of students | n/a (currently closed) |
| Location | Gerlafingen – centrally located in the Canton of Solothurn, easy to reach |
| Costs | Not publicly available – available from the school on request |
Rudolf Steiner School Solothurn
Rudolf Steiner School Solothurn follows Waldorf education, supporting children from kindergarten age through to Year 9. Lessons combine cognitive, artistic, and practical elements and focus on holistic personal development. The school works in solidarity and aims to be accessible regardless of families’ financial situation.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational concept | Waldorf education with an artistic, practical, and holistic learning approach |
| School levels | Kindergarten to Year 9 (incl. Integrative Middle School – IMS) |
| Number of students | n/a |
| Location | Solothurn – close to the city, easy to reach |
| Costs | Income-based: school 16.5-18.7% / kindergarten 10-12% of net annual income |
SIS Swiss International School Schönenwerd
SIS Swiss International School Schönenwerd is a bilingual day school (German and English) with a strong focus on continuous bilingual education-from preschool through primary school. Students experience balanced teaching in which both languages are used equally throughout the day. The modern spaces on the former Bally site create an inspiring learning environment for families in Solothurn and the surrounding area.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational concept | Continuous bilingual teaching in German and English in line with Curriculum 21, complemented by an international outlook and IB preparation |
| School levels | Preschool (Primary Intro) to Primary Year 6 |
| Number of students | approx. 80 students from over 10 nations |
| Location | Schönenwerd – centrally located between Aarau and Olten |
| Costs: | registration fee CHF 1’000; annual tuition CHF 14’820 for preschool, CHF 21’140 for Primary Years 1-6 |
Bachtelen Private School in Solothurn
Bachtelen Private School is state-recognized by the Canton of Solothurn and offers both mainstream and special education programs for children and young people. Its educational concept is based on a structured curriculum, complemented by individual support programs for special needs. Alongside academic learning, the school places great value on social integration and targeted preparation for transitioning to mainstream school or working life.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational concept | State-recognized mainstream and special education offering with individual support, incl. specialized programs for behaviour, language, autism, and vocational preparation |
| School levels | Kindergarten to Year 9, incl. career choice year |
| Number of students | approx. 100-120 students |
| Location | Solothurn – easy to reach and centrally located in the canton |
| Costs | Costs depend on cantonal or intercantonal funding (IVSE); individual clarification required |
Acton Academy Switzerland launches in 2026 School, kindergarten & daycare
The first Swiss location of this successful concept: Acton Academy Switzerland launches in August 2026 in German-speaking Switzerland.
Start of classes: August 2026 | Application: From late 2025 (via newsletter)
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Vocational continuing education options in Solothurn
Feusi Education Center in Solothurn offers a wide range of educational pathways, from compulsory schooling through to higher vocational colleges. After compulsory schooling, young people can start with the 10th school year, which specifically prepares them for the transition to vocational training or further schools. Sports talents also find ideal conditions in the integrated sports gymnasium to combine school and competitive sport.
In addition to general education programs, Feusi offers various courses in business, health, and education. The combination of practice-oriented teaching, individual support, and modern teaching methods makes the school attractive for both young people and adults who are aiming for a career change or further training. The education center values a close link between theory and practice, so graduates are well prepared for the job market or further study.
Costs and subsidization of private schools in Solothurn
In the Canton of Solothurn, private schools are generally not publicly subsidized. This means they are financed almost exclusively through parents’ contributions-and these are set accordingly high. Depending on the type of school, care model, and educational concept, monthly fees in the canton range from around CHF 600 to CHF 1’500 per child.
Don’t lose sight of additional expenses beyond tuition
When you’re discussing a suitable private school in Solothurn around the kitchen table, keep an eye on all related costs. These include, for example:
- Material costs for teaching resources and digital devices
- Contributions for class camps or project weeks
- Canteen or meal flat rates
- Fees for special elective subjects such as music, sport, or language courses
The exact amount of these costs is usually shown transparently on the schools’ websites. You can also confirm them by asking directly or requesting the school’s information materials.
So that school and education don’t depend only on parents’ income, many schools in the Canton of Solothurn offer flexible payment models or scale contributions according to family income. Sibling discounts are also offered to ease the financial burden for families with multiple children.
Selection criteria for parents: how to find the right private school for your child
Choosing a private school often comes with high expectations, but also significant investment. That’s why it’s worth checking carefully in advance which school best fits your child’s needs and your family’s options. Alongside academic offerings, values, teaching methods, and organizational conditions also play an important role. The following criteria will help you make a well-founded choice:
- 1. Recognition and approval status – Only officially recognized schools meet cantonal requirements and ensure an equivalent education.
- 2. Educational concept – The teaching approach should fit the family’s values, goals, and life situation, and enable individual support for the child.
- 3. Location and infrastructure – Good accessibility, suitable facilities, and a safe environment are crucial for everyday life.
- 4. Care concept – Offers such as full-day care, lunch provision, or homework support can make it easier to balance family and work.
- 5. Cost-benefit comparison – A transparent overview of tuition, additional costs, and included services prevents unpleasant surprises and supports long-term planning.
Conclusion: making the right school choice in Solothurn with good information
The variety of private schools in the Canton of Solothurn can make it difficult to choose, but it also gives parents many opportunities to shape their child’s education individually. In the end, what matters most is that the educational approach fits the child’s strengths, interests, and needs.
If you inform yourself early, compare the individual school profiles, and seek a personal conversation with the school leadership, you can narrow down your options more consciously and ultimately make the right decision. This pays off equally in your child’s academic success and personal development.