The Grüninger School Thalwil: Our guiding principles and educational philosophy
Our guiding principles and educational philosophy are the foundation of our daily work. They are geared towards the needs of our children and create a framework in which learning, relationships and personal development are fostered in constant harmony.
Learning with passion and commitment
Our guiding principles
Learning in a family-like atmosphere – individualised, warm, and holistic - our school is a place where children feel comfortable and can develop their full potential. In a bright, welcoming environment, we create space for creativity, concentration, musicality, and relaxation. With 6 to 12 students, our manageable class sizes allow us to recognise each child's uniqueness and provide individualised support.
Our lessons take place in a compact and child-friendly school timetable, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:40 p.m. This leaves plenty of time in the afternoon for hobbies, therapies, and additional support. Learning should take place in a calm, predictable environment, without any hustle and bustle.
The child is always at the heart of everything we do. Supported by a dedicated, warm, and cheerful team, we cultivate a culture of trust and respect. In our close-knit school environment, genuine relationships develop, facilitating learning and strengthening personalities. Our school is a place where learning is enjoyable and fosters a sense of community.
Educational philosophy
Our school understands education as a holistic process. The starting point of our pedagogical actions is the guiding question: What do our children need? Based on the long-established studies and practical experience of Prof. Dr. med. Oskar Jenni, we are guided by five central principles that shape our daily school life.
Secure relationships
Children learn best when they feel safe, recognised, and understood. We create this sense of security through enduring relationships between teachers and children, dedicated time for personal conversations, and a sensitive approach to children's responses. Our work is supported by expertise in child development and regular pedagogical coaching.
Clear boundaries
Clear structures provide security. We set boundaries through clear communication, understandable explanations, and unambiguous instructions. All feelings are valid, but not every behaviour is acceptable. We set boundaries respectfully and always in relation to the child.
A healthy body and mind
A healthy mind resides in a healthy body. We promote physical activity in the school day through play, sports, field trips, and free activities. Music is a daily element for expression, joy, and shared experiences. Mental health is also important to us. So our children learn to recognise, articulate and manage their feelings.
A sense of community
Education is a social process. Mixed-age classes foster responsibility and mutual support. Shared rituals, group tasks, excursions, and sports activities all serve to strengthen our community. Our garden and shared break times also promote a connection to nature as well as to the community.
An opportunity to learn
Learning is an intrinsic motivation. We foster intrinsic learning through developmentally appropriate teaching methods, projects, group work, and individual learning goals. Curriculum 21 serves as a binding guideline, which we implement creatively and effectively.
Would you like to learn more about our school philosophy?
We would be happy to explain our mission statement and educational principles to you in person and answer your questions in a no-obligation discussion.