Volunteer coaching for individual educational support
Our model of direct educational support offers an encouragement-based process of planning, funding and coaching that builds trust from one person to another. We do this by building on the volunteer-based and professional commitment of individuals who are willing to put their expertise and social skills at the service of educational progress. Our coaches are part of the organization like employees, and their contribution is flexible in terms of location and time.
Our success speaks for itself
2,600+
Educational projects
We have already supported over 2,600 vocational training and continuing education projects through coaching.
12 million+
Education Loans
We have already granted over CHF 12 million in education loans.
95%
Financing
We find funding for 95% of those who apply.
Become a coach
Would you like to volunteer and support especially people at a financial disadvantage? We are looking for wise personalities who would like to work with us as volunteer coaches to make education possible. Click below for the details about this role.
Frequently asked questions
How to become an EDUCA SWISS coach: frequently asked questions.
Are there regular meetings or exchanges with other coaches at EDUCA SWISS?
Yes, there are monthly one-hour online workshops for in-depth thematic discussions and case discussions, annual regional meetings and an annual EDUCA SWISS team event in Zurich to exchange ideas with all coaches, the management and the Board of Trustees. Here you can find impressions of this this years team event.
Can I, as a coach, choose the specific field or type of educational projects that I oversee?
You choose your coachees yourself
How long does it usually take to accompany a candidate?
The initial coaching before the approval of an educational loan typically includes 2-3 sessions, each lasting 1-2 hours. Afterwards, you will support the candidates until the loan is fully repaid, with annual progress meetings and additional coaching sessions as needed.
What challenges am I typically confronted with as a coach?
As a coach at EDUCA SWISS, you meet people at very different stages of their lives. One of the challenges you face is providing access to educational opportunities while also promoting financial responsibility. You need to balance supporting educational goals with avoiding over-indebtedness. It can be emotionally demanding to decline unrealistic funding requests, even though it is in the best interest of the candidates. Your task is to communicate empathetically and work together to find sustainable solutions. A team of office staff and coaches is always available to offer support.
Will I be introduced to my commitment by EDUCA SWISS?
You will go through a complete onboarding process. Upon completion, the coaching team will be happy to meet you officially and EDUCA SWISS will feature you on the website. In addition, there are regular one-hour monthly online workshops, usually at lunchtime, as well as annual regional meetings in small groups in your area and an annual EDUCA SWISS event in Zurichdirectly on the lake with all coaches, the office staff and the Foundation Board.
Can I organize my coaching flexible and conduct it from home?
You work flexibly from home and schedule your online coaching sessions directly with candidates. Of course, face-to-face meetings are also possible if you prefer.
How much time do I need to invest per week?
Around 4 hours per week, which you can plan with your coachee and your calendar accordingly.
What qualifications do I need to become a coach at EDUCA SWISS?
Empathy and openness to a variety of life paths, an interest in education and a flair for budget figures, a good dose of wisdom and a down-to-earth attitude.
Our Coaches
Adrienne Schlick
Andrea Hergert
Anne-Kathrin Winzenried
Barbara Bühlmann
Britta Lüscher
Corina Löpfe
Erna Baumgartner
Eva Maria Szabó
Franziska Wirz
Gabriela Liaudet
Hans-Jörg Tschachtli
Ivana Komsic
Jacqueline Loubrie
Jean-Luc Morchetti
Martin Grossenbacher
Martina Frank
Maurizio Valli
Melanie Scheiwiller Joos
Niklaus Roth
Paul Burgener
Rahel Huber-Himmelberger
Regula Müller Thut
Renate Labora
Rita Mc Cammon
Ruth Burri
Sabine Clerc
Simone Casagrande Valli
Susanne Walti-Raetzer
Tünde Szalay
Viola Dietschweiler
Our former coaches
Gabriela Briant
Natalie Wöhler
Rita Soland
Ruurd de Fluiter
Sacha Alibrando
Toni Aeschbacher
How can you support us?
Student loan
As a lender, you directly support the candidates in the fulfillment of their educational project.
Coaching
As an EDUCA SWISS coach you play a central role. You guide the candidates, question in a critical yet constructive way and help make an educational project possible.
Donate
As a donor, you promote and fund coaching for individuals facing disadvantage, directly opening up opportunities.
Do you have any questions? Use our contact form.
EDUCA SWISS is supported among others by
Beni Würth
Council of States St. Gallen
«EDUCA SWISS is a sustainable and effective complement to cantonal education funding. I wholeheartedly support this charitable civil society initiative.»
Matthias Aebischer
National Council Bern
«Education is a human right and should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their social background or financial starting position. I am committed to this along with EDUCA SWISS Foundation.»
Matthias Michel
Council of States Zug
«I support EDUCA SWISS in its goal of ensuring that every ambitious person in Switzerland can complete an education or training program – regardless of their financial situation or social background.»
Sandra Locher Benguerel
Former National Councillor, member of the LCH Executive Board, teacher
«Education is the key to a self-determined life and contributes to a strong and stable society. That’s why I support EDUCA SWISS in its goal to create fair opportunities.»
Professor Dr. Theo Wehner
Industrial Psychologist
Theo Wehner studied psychology and sociology, is now a visiting professor at the University of Bremen and professor emeritus at the Center for Organizational and Work Sciences at ETH Zurich University. As an expert, he works for leading foundations that finance education. His research focuses on the meaning of professional work and the act of becoming in today’s society. How do we learn through experience – especially in dealing with mistakes and failure? What is the nature of volunteer work? How do we define effective support and guidance for people in their professional development? These questions are highly relevant for the EDUCA SWISS’ work especially.
Peter F. Weibel
Expert on Business and Foundations
Peter F. Weibel studied business administration at the University of Zurich and spent many years in leading positions for leading companies in Switzerland, including as CEO of PwC from 1988 to 2003 and as a member of the Board of Directors of Credit Suisse Group from 2004 to 2012. For 15 years now, Peter F. Weibel has committed professionally to education, social issues and culture. He was awarded the Medal of Honor of the City of Zurich for his services as long-time President of the Festivals. He contributed to the development of several foundations, including the Pestalozzi Foundation. Since 2012, he has presided over the Foundation of the University of Zurich. For EDUCA SWISS, Peter Weibel’s experience in professional governance, sustainable fundraising and especially in impact-oriented leadership is particularly valuable.
