Hochalpine Institut Ftan (HIF)
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Hochalpines Institut Ftan (HIF) is more than a school – it’s an experience. Students at HIF are empowered to forge their own future, by choosing either the bilingual Swiss Matura or the International Advanced Diploma as their pathway – both with the option to add top-level athletic training through our own Sports Academy.
Welcoming students from Years 8-13 (ages 12-18), our global co-educational community thrives on multilingualism, leadership, and global networking, preparing students to confidently navigate an interconnected world. Wellbeing is woven into every aspect of the curriculum at HIF, from the pristine alpine environment to a dedicated curriculum that nurtures resilience and encourages balance.
Through hands-on exploration, adventure-driven learning and a deep respect for nature, HIF shapes independent, forward-thinking global citizens, ready to thrive and contribute to society at every level.
Key facts
- Founded in 1793
- 100 Students
- Co-education from 12 to 18 years
- Nationalities: Over 30
- Campus: Located at 1700 m, ski in accessibility 5 minutes to chairlift
- Accreditation AQA Pearson, University of Cambridge International Examinations
- Sports Academy: Professional training for competitive athletes (skiing, biathlon, Nordic skiing, freestyle ski + snowboard), athletic training and leisure sports and
- adventure offers
- Safeguarding and Wellbeing: integrated into academic and boarding life to support emotional, academic, physical, social and mental wellbeing
- Annual Tuition and Boarding Fees: 44’000 CHF – 89’000 CHF
Academics
- Gymnasium / Swiss Matura (German, English, Romansh)
- International Advanced Diploma (A-levels, English)
- Foreign Languages: French, German, Romansh, Latin, Spanish, Mandarin, English
- University Careers Counselling Department offers structure personalised support to attend universities in Europe and around the world.
- Average Class Size: 8 – 12
- Gymnasium Preparation Courses Available (August to February)
- Foundation English Course for A-levels, 6-12 months
Summer camps
- Ages: 10-16 years
- Dates: July
- Duration: 14 Days
- Language learning in English, German, and Mandarin
- Range of exciting activities, including bouldering, rafting, riding, and Via Ferrata (climbing)
- Robotics, creative art, and photography
- Visits: Bernina Glacier and sailing at St Moritz Lake
Winter camps
- Ages: 10-16 years
- Dates: February
- Duration: 10 days
- Skiing & snowboarding
- Sledding
- Ice skating
- Avalanche rescue practical
- Indoor climbing Visits: ski trip to Samnaun and sledding in Bergün
Co-curricular
- Evening and afternoon activities sport/ games and cooking classes
- Interschool competitions
- Culture Weeks (Switzerland, Germany, Austria)
- Adventure Weeks (Switzerland, Sailing in Italy and Dolomites thru hike)
- Local and international Service Projects
- Partnerships: Villars Institute
- Long Term Leadership and Skill Development through Duke of Edinburgh International Award/ First Aid/ Rescue 3/ Leadership Skills Foundation
- Sports Academy:
- Elite Training Snowboarding, Skiing, Biathlon or Cross-Country Skiing
- Strength and Conditioning Training
- Seasonal Outdoor Programme Activities timetabled 2 times a week + Saturdays
- Term 1 and 3: Rafting, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Climbing (Indoor and Outdoor), Via Ferrata, Kayaking, Mountain and Water Rescue First Aid.
- Term 2: Ski/ Board Lessons + Cross Country Skiing, Snow Shoeing, Ice Skating, Ice Canyoning, Avalanche rescue
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