Confidence in Every Setting
From Tradition to Modern Relevance
Etiquette has been at the heart of Surval since our founding in 1961 as a Swiss finishing school. While our academic programmes have evolved, we have remained true to this heritage — because we believe that how you present yourself is as important as what you know.
At Surval, Etiquette is not about outdated rules. It’s about developing the confidence, cultural fluency, and adaptability to navigate any situation with grace — from a formal dinner to an international business meeting.
Why We Teach Etiquette
The ability to communicate well, put others at ease, and present yourself with assurance is a lifelong advantage. Through our Etiquette programme, girls learn skills that:
- Build personal and professional confidence
- Strengthen cross-cultural understanding
- Open doors in academic, career, and social contexts
- Encourage self-awareness and respect for others
What Etiquette at Surval Includes
Our programme is woven into daily life and enhanced through specialist lessons and practical experiences:
- International dining Etiquette: Understanding table settings, service styles, and customs from around the world
- Social and professional protocol: First impressions, body language, introductions, and conversation skills
- Event hosting and participation: Planning, attending, and presenting at formal and informal gatherings
- Dress and presentation: Understanding codes for different occasions and discovering personal style with confidence
- Cultural savoir-vivre: Appreciating traditions, gestures, and manners in different countries
Learning by Doing
Etiquette at Surval is experiential. Girls put learning into practice during:
- School dinners and afternoon teas
- Cultural excursions and international trips
- Guest speaker sessions and masterclasses
- Student-led events, including fundraising galas and presentations
The Surval Advantage
In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to present yourself with poise and cultural awareness is a key differentiator. Survaliennes graduate not only with strong academic results but also with the presence to walk into any room — anywhere in the world — and feel at home.
As one alumna reflected:
"This is not just from what is taught in the classroom, it’s a way of life."