Welcome to Centrepoint
a volunteer-run English-speaking community in the heart of Basel where people connect, join activities, and make friends
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News & articles
Centrepoint news
Centrepoint’s anniversary apero on 15 October 2026
Centrepoint’s more than thirty-year history was celebrated on 15 October by a large number of members. Some from the earliest days, including one of the founders, Janet (Jan) Hawley, and volunteer Roger Bonner, were also present.
Talks & workshops
Join the Centrepoint Wine Club!
Julie aims to share her enthusiasm with others in a relaxed, sociable setting in order to learn more about different wines.
Talks & workshops
Sanitas Healthcare Presentation
The presentation by Sanitas Health Insurance, held at Centrepoint on 14th October, was both insightful and engaging and very well received by our members.
In the spotlight
Birdwatching Group – Discovering the Birds Around Us
Centrepoint's Birdwatching group’s outings are deliberately simple. Rather than travelling long distances in search of rare species, members meet regularly in familiar places, e.g., along the Birs River, south of Dornach, and north in the Reinacherheide.
Talks & workshops
Classical Music and Opera — monthly discussion group
Join our monthly discussion group on Classical Music and Opera. All are welcome. No preparation* or advance knowledge is needed.
Trips & tours
Swiss Parliament Building Tour
Join fellow members on an English language tour of the Parliament Building (Bundeshaus), home to the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council.
What our members say
“Finding Centrepoint was a turning point for me after leaving Ukraine. The supportive community here has helped me feel connected and at home in Switzerland.”
Viktoriya from Ukraine
"I enjoy teaching beginners’ bridge at Centrepoint because it blends problem-solving, fast feedback, and intuitive pattern-spotting into a game played with people, not just against them. Watching newcomers discover the pleasure of playing bridge — and even give me new insights — is genuinely rewarding."
Sev from Russia
“I really enjoy volunteering on the Front Desk, as the variety of tasks makes every shift engaging and helps me feel connected to the Centrepoint community. Volunteering with the Italian Conversation Group is also rewarding as it gives me pleasure to share my language and help others develop their skills."
Francesca from Italy
"Volunteering at Centrepoint gives me the chance to organise fun events like minigolf, summer meet-ups, and visits to interesting places. I also enjoy being part of the Photography Club, where we share our passion, meet new people, and work together to make the group a success."
Marcel from Switzerland
“I have found a truly welcoming, international community at Centrepoint. Participating in its diverse activities has strengthened my spoken English and given me a supportive space where I feel I belong.”
Sissi from Switzerland
“I’ve discovered Basel in new ways and learned about many different subjects through Centrepoint’s talks and trips. It’s also been rewarding to contribute by hosting a French discussion group.”
Jean-Christian from Canada
“I enjoy volunteering at the Welcome Desk during weekly Coffee Mornings, where I can greet members and offer new members and visitors a friendly introduction. It’s rewarding to help people settle into the Centrepoint community.”
Steffen from the Netherlands