WE BELIEVE IN THE POTENTIAL OF EVERY CHILD.
ABOUT US
Nicole Rieffel-Behles
Zürich
With a background shaped by studies in Switzerland and internationally, I developed a deep curiosity for education systems around the world, combined with professional experiences and with personal insight.
After my High School years in Zurich and Lausanne, an exchange year in U.S.A sparked my passion for global learning. I went on to study interpreting, spending a formative Erasmus year at the Sorbonne, and later I worked in marketing and communications across Europe.
My journey into education began during my maternity leave, serving on parent councils and a daycare board, eventually leading me to help expand a private international school in Zurich (Tandem IMS).
In my subsequent role at the Kantonsschule Küsnacht Switzerland, I immersed myself in higher public education, acting as a link between families, schools, and institutions. Having had this deep insight into our Swiss Gymnasium path, including the rigorous academic expectations and the unique opportunities offered by bilingual programs that prepare students for both national and international futures, allowed me to gain the necessary expertise and confidence to take the next step in my professional journey: co-founding Schoolfinders GmbH with the goal of offering families competent and trustworthy guidance on all matters related to the Swiss school system.
Recognizing how overwhelming school choices can be, we founded Schoolfinders: a neutral, independent service that offers families personalized and trustworthy school guidance. Almost 10 years, the feedback from families keeps us inspired and grounded in our mission to find the right school fit for every child.
"My three children have very different school careers. This has shown me that there is a suitable school for every child - you just have to find it. To see my children flourish at the right school for them is a wonderful experience and an important motivation for founding SCHOOLFINDERS. Therefore, it is my goal to show other families in similar situations that there is not only a classical school career, but that in the Swiss education system there are many ways to reach one's goal and achieve success."
Diane Bauer-Illy
Zürich
Moving to Switzerland as a teenager and entering the local school system without speaking German was a defining challenge in my life. Earning my Swiss Matura through this journey shaped not only my education, but also a lasting empathy for families navigating similar transitions.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Communication and working with international teams taught me later the value of connecting across different cultures, an experience that continues to shape my professional and personal journey.
A new chapter began when my husband and I moved to the Bahamas for four years with our three children; an enriching time that offered fresh perspective. Returning to Switzerland and guiding my children back into both Swiss and international schools in Zurich gave me firsthand insight into how complex school transitions can be, even for Swiss families coming home.
All of these experiences have shaped what we do at Schoolfinders. We understand the emotional weight, the many questions, and the desire to make the best possible choices for your children. We are here to make that journey clearer, more informed, and genuinely supported.
"At Schoolfinders, we understand that moving abroad and choosing the right school can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Since 2017, we have been helping families around the world navigate this important step with empathy, insight, and care.
As a trusted partner, we remain deeply committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of families, helping them find not just a school, but long-term solutions where their children can truly thrive."
Joline Huggare
Zürich
My own school career in Switzerland played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. During those years, I made lifelong friends and learned the value of motivation, respect, and continuous learning. At Schoolfinders, we believe that school is the foundation of your future.
After my international school and boarding school years, I started off at EHL, then pursued marketing and communications at a university in the Netherlands, followed by a master's program in London. My journey also took me to Spain for a year, and I gained valuable working experiences at two a highly international educational companies based in Zürich. Now, as a parent of three children, I understand firsthand how crucial the right school is for the wellbeing of children and the family.
When it comes to boarding schools, I have extensive knowledge of the various institutions in Switzerland. My frequent visits to schools across the country enable me to provide high-quality advice to our clients. I've also developed a deep empathy for children who spend years away from home, forming new "families" with friends and mentors. I firmly believe that boarding school fosters open-mindedness, cultural acceptance, and a non-judgmental attitude. My personal experiences at the boarding school have fueled my passion for exploring the world and reconnecting with friends globally.
"Joining Schoolfinders allows me to combine my personal and professional experiences to help families find the perfect school for their children. I am passionate about making this journey as smooth and rewarding as possible for every family we assist. "
Ester Esteban
With a Swiss-Spanish background and a solid foundation in Business Administration, I bring extensive international experience from both the corporate and educational sectors. Having lived as an expat in Panama, Honduras, Mexico, and now Switzerland, I have a deep understanding of the unique challenges that international families face especially when it comes to navigating education systems abroad.
My experience includes seven years supporting expat families in Mexico, offering guidance on career development and allocation support. Currently based in Lausanne, I specialize in consulting for day schools and summer/winter camps across Switzerland, particularly within the Lake Geneva region.
I work closely with families to help them select the right educational path whether choosing between Swiss or international curricula (IB, A-Levels, AP), evaluating multilingual options, or selecting from over 35 carefully vetted Swiss camps. Each consultation is personalized, ensuring that children’s academic needs, family priorities, and future mobility are all taken into account.
Geneva
"Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, and a parent of two, I understand firsthand the importance of finding the right school environment one that not only supports academic success but also promotes a smooth and enriching transition for the entire family."