Education and Schools in Rotterdam

While the range of schools and education styles in Rotterdam isn’t as extensive as that in Amsterdam, you still have a few options to choose from. As is the case throughout the Netherlands, both public and private schooling is of a high quality. Public schools typically teach in Dutch, while private international schools teach in the language of their country of origin.

If you have younger children and plan to stick around, they can pick up a new language relatively easily and are best suited to public schools in the Netherlands. Adapting to full-time schooling in a new language can be more challenging for older kids and teenagers. In this case, an international school or bilingual programme might work better for your family. Bilingual education is expanding, and some schools now offer Dutch-English programmes for primary and secondary students.

Homeschooling isn’t a common option in Rotterdam – it’s not explicitly recognised by Dutch law, and with the high quality of education in the city, most families don’t see the need for homeschooling.

Public schools in Rotterdam

Compulsory education in the Netherlands begins at the age of five, but most parents choose to start their child’s schooling at age four, especially since this non-compulsory year is funded by the government. Tuition at Dutch public schools is free for children between 4 and 16, although some schools may ask for an additional voluntary parental contribution.

Teaching is in Dutch, which means that public schools may not always be the best option if you don’t speak Dutch or don’t plan to stay in the country long term. However, many schools support non-Dutch-speaking children through newcomers’ classes where they can learn the language and integrate into the regular curriculum.

Some public schools offer international sections with bilingual education designed for native English speakers. This can be an ideal solution for many families. Although not free, these programmes are subsidised by the government and are significantly cheaper than private international school fees. Only a few select schools in Rotterdam offer bilingual programmes.

Most children attend a school in the same neighbourhood where they live, which makes getting to school easy. However, this also means you’ll want to think about school choice when choosing accommodation in Rotterdam. Public schools often prioritise children within specific catchment areas, so proximity to a preferred school is key.

At age 12, children begin secondary school. Rotterdam, like the rest of the country, offers three public secondary schooling options: VMBO (voorbereidend middelbaar beroepsonderwijs), HAVO (hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs), and VWO (voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs). All three start with a general curriculum before offering specialised streams. HAVO and VWO are typically academically oriented, preparing students for university, while VMBO focuses on vocational training.

Read more about Education and Schools in the Netherlands.

Private and international schools in Rotterdam

Private international schools in Rotterdam are accredited to offer foreign curricula and generally provide a high standard of education with excellent facilities. Fees are typically high, so if you’re considering this option, ensuring it fits your budget is important, especially since education subsidies in relocation grants are becoming increasingly rare.

Choices for private international schools are limited, with just a handful of schools offering international curricula in Rotterdam. Demand often exceeds the available seats, so starting the application process as early as possible is best. These schools frequently cater to globally mobile families and offer a culturally diverse environment.

Nurseries in Rotterdam

If you have infants, you can find many childcare facilities and services across all areas and suburbs in Rotterdam. Daycare centres are typically open from 7am to 7pm, providing food, play activities, and care for the youngest infants. Preschools generally take children from ages two to four, helping them prepare for formal education.

Additionally, you can find after-school centres, join informal playgroups, or hire babysitters, nannies, or au pairs to help with childcare. These options provide flexibility for busy families and create opportunities for social interaction for your children.

Special-needs education in Rotterdam

The level of support for children with disabilities in Rotterdam is high. Many schools provide inclusive classroom settings with additional support staff and facilities, depending on your child’s needs. You can also find various informal support groups in the city to connect with other parents and share resources.

When searching for the most suitable school, your child may be evaluated, and you may be interviewed to determine their needs. Be sure to enquire about this process at your local municipality.

Your child may be integrated into a mainstream school or placed in a school dedicated to children with special educational needs, such as speciaal basisonderwijs (SBO) and speciaal onderwijs. These schools are further divided into four specific clusters: children with visual impairments, hearing or speech impediments, physical or cognitive disabilities or chronic illnesses, and behavioural or social problems. Inclusive education continues to be a priority, ensuring that all children can access quality learning opportunities.

Useful links

• Inclusive Education in the Netherlands

Tutors in Rotterdam

You or your children can benefit from extra tuition in Rotterdam. Tutors are easily found through specific companies or online portals, offering private classes in a wide range of subject areas, either online or in person.

Learning Dutch can be especially helpful in overcoming language barriers, and a private tutor is a great way to achieve this. Tutors also provide support for advanced subjects or exam preparation, making them a valuable resource for students of all ages.

Emerging trends include a growing emphasis on STEM subjects and the adoption of digital platforms, which offer flexible and personalised learning experiences. Popular learning platforms in Rotterdam include LanguaTalk, TUTOROO, and StudyTube.

Useful links

• LanguaTalk Dutch Language Platform
• TUTOROO Local Tutoring Services
• StudyTube Educational Resources