Published May 1, 2024
Moving to another country is not just an exciting step for you as an adult. This life change brings even more challenges for your family, including finding the right school. As a parent, you naturally want nothing more than for a child to feel safe, comfortable, and at home in a new culture and environment. This article highlights the educational system of the Netherlands, providing you as parents with the right tools to find a suitable school (or childcare) in the Netherlands.
Within the Dutch education system, a key trend reflects an evolving focus on digital literacy and sustainability, alongside accommodating a diverse international community. The system offers a spectrum of schooling options, from publicly run schools to fully private institutions, each catering to varied needs.
As of 2023, political dialogues emphasize the importance of preparing students for a digital and environmentally conscious future, influencing curricula across all educational levels. Understanding these trends, alongside factors like language of instruction and integration facilities for non-Dutch speakers, is crucial for making informed educational choices.
The Dutch education system offers a variety of schooling types to accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of families, each with its unique approach to learning and development:
Publicly run schools (openbare scholen)
Accessible to all children, these schools are funded by the government and adhere to a national curriculum. They are known for inclusivity and often reflect Dutch society's diversity. Education is usually free, with voluntary contributions requested for extracurricular activities.
Privately run schools (privaat onderwijs)
Though privately established, these schools receive public funding and follow the national curriculum. They may be based on specific religious or philosophical principles, integrating these beliefs into their educational approach.
Fully private and independent Schools (particulier onderwijs)
Operating without government funding, these schools offer varied curricula. Many international schools fall into this category, providing education based on international standards like the IB, at a higher cost due to lack of government support.
International schools
Designed for expatriate families, these schools offer international curricula, facilitating smooth transitions for students moving in or out of the Dutch education system. They cater to those seeking education in languages other than Dutch.
Bilingual education (tweetalig onderwijs)
Some Dutch schools offer bilingual programs, teaching in Dutch and another language (usually English). This approach prepares students for global opportunities, combining language skills with cultural awareness.
The journey through the Dutch education system is thoughtfully structured into distinct phases, each designed to cater to the evolving educational needs and developmental stages of children as they grow:
Primary education (basisonderwijs)
Children in the Netherlands typically start primary education at age 4 and continue until age 12. This phase lays the foundation for lifelong learning, focusing on basic skills like reading, writing, and mathematics, along with introducing children to the arts and sciences.
Secondary education (voortgezet onderwijs)
At around age 12, students transition to secondary education, which can last from 4 to 6 years, depending on the educational track chosen. Secondary education is designed to prepare students for higher education or vocational training, with multiple tracks catering to various academic levels and interests.
Primary and secondary education is generally free in the Netherlands, with schools possibly requesting a voluntary contribution from parents for extracurricular activities or school trips. These contributions are income-dependent and can range from about 200 EUR to 2,000 EUR annually.
Post-secondary options
After completing secondary education, students have several pathways: they can opt for higher vocational education (Hoger beroepsonderwijs - HBO) or university education (Universitair onderwijs). The choice depends on the level of secondary education completed and the student's personal and academic interests.
After-school care in the Netherlands, known as buitenschoolse opvang (BSO), is an essential service for families, particularly those with working parents. This care is provided for children aged 4 to 12, outside regular school hours, including Wednesday afternoons and school holidays. Read more about childcare.
BSO programs are often run by specialized providers, sometimes in collaboration with schools, offering a blend of activities like sports, arts, and outdoor play to foster children's development in a relaxed setting.
The costs for these services can vary, but many families are eligible for a government subsidy to help manage the expenses, with the amount depending on factors such as income, number of children, and hours of care needed. When selecting a BSO, considerations include location, activities provided, and the facility's atmosphere. Given the high demand in some areas, it's advisable for parents to explore options well in advance.
In summary, the Dutch education system's diverse offerings ensure that every child's educational needs can be met, from inclusive publicly run schools to international and bilingual programs. The addition of after-school care provides vital support for working parents.
For those new to the Netherlands, early research and engagement with the system are crucial. It's advisable to seek advice from local communities and educational experts to navigate the options effectively, ensuring a smooth transition for your family into the Dutch educational landscape.
This article was prepared in collaboration with RSH | Relocation and Immigration Services, a full-service Relocation, Immigration, and Home Finding agency with 35 years of in-house experience. RSH provides support to knowledge migrants, HR managers, recruiters, and expats in organizing immigration matters, moving to, and housing in the Netherlands.
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