THIS TIME six months and your sixth-year daughter will be planning some end-of-exams debauchery on an unfortunate Mediterranean island. Might we suggest an alternative? Instead of sun, sea and, er, sangria, how about a Swiss finishing school?
Their numbers may be dwindling, but their sole aim is still to provide young ladies with a polish they never knew existed. Lady Di went to one, as did Lara Croft. The concept has even turned up in the reality show Australian Princess (right).
Among the best-known schools is Institut Villa Pierrefeu, in Montreux, which develops proficiency in hostessing, etiquette and general savoir vivre.
Classes give participants the low-down on introductions, precedence at table and table manners, as well as on dealing with tricky foods. Then there are lessons in "how to be" at a variety of events, from engagement receptions to weddings, cocktails, buffets and children's parties.
Students are tutored in the art of conversation, with emphasis on the importance of listening, tact and discretion.
Once they've mastered that it's on to tablecraft, including "table service with or without help, organisation of cupboards and logical distribution of silverware and china". And just when you thought their teeny brains could hold no more, there is floral art and table decoration to consider. And the price of all this polish? A three-week course in June costs €4,360.
Then again, how bad can two weeks in Ibiza be?
www.ivpworld.com
