What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

International families living in The Netherlands can choose to send their children to either a Dutch or international school. The different international options available are as follows:

  • Specific nationality-based international schools (for example the British or American schools)
  • International schools (containing children of many different nationalities)
  • Dutch school with an “international stream” (a separate international curriculum at a Dutch school)
  • Dual-language schools (education at a Dutch school in both English and Dutch; only an option for children who already speak Dutch)

Many schools popular with international families do have waiting lists.

Schools in the Netherlands offer high-quality education. The philosophy behind Dutch education reflects Dutch society and aims to encourage students to be open-minded and able to think and learn in a creative manner. Children attend school from age 5 to age 16 and the different levels are broken down as follows:

  • Pre-Primary Education
  • Primary Education (Basisschool)
  • Secondary Education (VMBO, HAVO, VWO)
  • Tertiary Education, e.g., Vocational Education (MBO and company schools), University of Applied Sciences (HBO), Research University (Universiteit)

 

What are some examples of these schools?

International Schools

International Schools are fee-paying, but are an alternative option for families with children who do not speak Dutch.

In Eindhoven, there is an international primary school at the Humperdincklaan and an international secondary school located at the Venetiestraat.

Further away, there are international primary and secondary schools in Maastricht, as well as the Afnorth International School in Brunssum (Limburg), close to Maastricht/Aachen and the German border.

There is also a European School at Mol in Belgium, which was originally opened for the children of European Commission employees. This school offers a range of classes in different European languages. For the lower grades, these are mainly Dutch / Flemish, German, Italian, English and French. The school is located close to the towns of Mol, Geel and Dessel in Belgium. Established initially for children of European commissioners, the school also accepts other pupils and operates buses from Eindhoven. The school estimates the drive from Eindhoven is approximately 40 minutes. Fees for this school are, however, higher than for the International Schools in Eindhoven.

 

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Many schools have waiting lists. Please contact Crown Amsterdam for current information on the schools you are interested in.

 

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes. The largest selection of pre-schools is run by a company called Korein who have schools all over the city. They can mail you an information pack in English; the web-based information is only in Dutch.

 

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Most international schools have school bus transportation. Public transport or travel by bike are other possibilities.

 

When does the typical school year start and end?

August to June

 

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Some local may schools have an international department. Please contact Crown Amsterdam to learn more.

 

Useful Links

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.