Academic programmes
Ignite Switzerland
Ignite is a transformational gap experience that combines outdoor adventure, academic exploration and personal growth. Students build confidence, resilience and independence while discovering new passions and preparing for the next stage of their journey. HIF is proud to be home to Ignite Switzerland, a unique educational opportunity, which hundreds of pupils have already taken part in.
The Ignite Journey
Expand your comfort zone
Experience life away from home, embrace uncertainty and discover new perspectives.
Learn Through Experience
Academic learning, outdoor adventure and real-world challenges become catalysts for
growth, curiosity and discovery.
Grow into yourself
Return home with greater confidence, resilience, independence and self-awareness.
Resilience isn't taught. It's experienced.
The Structure of the Curriculum
Ignite focuses on the question: Who am I when I am challenged?
Core Academics
Five days a week, students attend a regular academic program that is aligned with their home school’s curriculum.
Electives
In addition, they choose specialized courses based on their interests.
Examples:
- Understanding the Natural World
- Art & the Environment
- Digital Photography
- Woodwork
- Travels in Geology
- Treasures of theEngadine
Passion Project
At the end of the term, participants present their own project that documents their personal learning journey and showcases their insights.
Ignite exchange programmes
Ignite Year 8
This flexible 5-week programme encourages students to build confidence, develop independence and discover new strengths in the extraordinary environment of the Engadin region.
ROCK I
Climbing and bouldering, fun in the rope park in the Engadin’s granite landscape. Technical skills, mental resilience, and vertical adventure — guided by certified mountain instructors.
ROCK II / SNOW
Rope park/climbing, Indoor climbing and bouldering, MTB, Orienteering, map + navigation and additional first ski days at the beginning of the winter season – overall lots of outdoor fun.
SNOW I + II
Alpine skiing, snowshoeing and avalanche awareness. Students learn to read the mountain and experience the freedom of ski touring from day one.
WATER I
As winter gives way to spring, the mountains reveal new possibilities. Through rafting, canoeing, cycling, hiking and outdoor expeditions, students explore the Alpine landscape from a fresh perspective.
WATER II
Hiking, cycling, rafting, canoeying – Students can explore mountain trails, rivers, and wilderness while building confidence, resilience, and a sense of adventure.
Ignite Year 9
This transformative programme combines rigorous academics with experiential learning and immersive outdoor adventure. Through challenge, reflection and shared experiences, students develop the confidence, resilience and leadership skills needed to thrive both in the classroom and beyond.
Each week alternates between structured classroom learning and full-day outdoor expeditions. Students develop technical skills in climbing, skiing, and kayaking while building the resilience, teamwork, and self-confidence that define the HIF graduate.
ROCK
Via Ferrata · Sport Climbing · Bouldering
Vertical terrain, technical skill and mental resilience in the Engadin’s granite landscape.
SNOW
Ski Touring · Freeride · Avalanche Safety
Alpine skiing, mountain reading and winter survival in the heart of the Engadin.
WATER
Kayaking · Stand-Up Paddling · Open Water
Water confidence, paddling technique and openwater swimming in the Engadin’s alpine lakes.
Who will thrive at Ignite Switzerland?
Ignite is ideal for students who:
- are curious and open to new experiences
- want to build confidence and independence
- enjoy active, hands-on learning beyond the classroom
- are looking to disconnect from everyday distractions
- are ready to discover themselves and the world around them
As a parent, I would not hesitate to recommend the Ignite programme. Giving our kids the opportunity to build resilience, learn that they can do hard things, clean up after themselves, be responsible for themselves, be more organised and accountable, all within such a safe, controlled, nurturing environment, is a truly unique opportunity for this age group. And all of this personal growth comes in addition to the phenomenal outdoor programme.
Ignite Parent, 2025
