Education and Schools in the Netherlands

The standard education in the Netherlands is renowned for its quality. If you are moving to the Netherlands, you will find a variety of excellent schooling options to suit your needs. Most schools are government-funded, but there are also independent international schools to consider.

Older children often find it easier to adjust when they can study alongside peers who speak their home language. Almost all public schools teach in Dutch, although bilingual public school programmes, known as Tweetalig Onderwijs (TTO), are growing in popularity. These programmes, available primarily at the secondary level but emerging in primary schools, offer a mix of Dutch and English instruction.

Some public schools provide internationally recognised curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the International Primary Curriculum, which offer a middle ground for globally mobile families. If you want alternatives, the Netherlands also has a wide selection of independently run international schools that cater to different educational philosophies and curricula.

Public schools in the Netherlands

Public schools in the Netherlands are funded by the government and free for all children, including expat kids. They are known for their high teaching standards and relaxed yet efficient atmosphere. They provide an excellent environment for your child to adapt to Dutch culture and make new friends.

While tuition is not charged, schools typically request a voluntary parental contribution (ouderbijdrage) to fund activities such as excursions and extracurricular programmes. This amount varies between schools and municipalities.

Some schools offer specialised programmes for non-Dutch-speaking students. These include newcomers' classes (nieuwkomersklas) or reception classes (opvangklas) for children aged 6 to 12, and international bridging classes (Internationale Schakel Klas, or ISK) for students aged 12 to 18. These programmes focus on teaching the Dutch language and culture, with most students transitioning to mainstream classes within one to two years.

Primary school

Primary school (basisschool) attendance becomes compulsory on your child’s fifth birthday. While catchment areas are not strictly enforced, priority is often given to children living nearby. Many families choose housing close to their preferred school to increase their chances of admission.

Most children live within cycling distance of their school and return home for lunch. For working parents, supervised lunchtime programmes (overblijven) are available, providing a safe space for children to eat and play during the lunch break. These programmes have grown in demand as schools increasingly adopt shorter lunch schedules.

Secondary school

When your child finishes primary school at age 12, they can choose between three educational pathways in public secondary schools:

• VMBO (voorbereidend middelbaar beroepsonderwijs): A four-year practical and vocational stream.
• HAVO (hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs): A five-year programme that prepares students for higher professional education (HBO).
• VWO (voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs): A six-year academic stream leading to university.

Your child’s choice of pathway will significantly influence their future educational and career opportunities. For instance, VWO students often progress to university, while VMBO graduates may pursue vocational training or enter the workforce. Primary schools provide guidance to help families select the most suitable option.

Education and Schools in Amsterdam
Education and Schools in Rotterdam
Education and Schools in The Hague
Education and Schools in Utrecht
Education and Schools in Eindhoven

Useful links

• Government of the Netherlands: Education

International schools in the Netherlands

International schools in the Netherlands cater to older children and families planning a short stay. These schools offer globally recognised curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British National Curriculum, and American curriculum. The IB programme is especially popular for its focus on critical thinking, research skills, and global perspectives, making it an excellent choice for internationally mobile families.

Enrolment at international schools can be competitive, particularly in cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam. Early applications are highly recommended, with some schools advising families to apply a year in advance. Negotiating education allowances as part of your expat contract can help cover tuition and other educational costs.

International Schools in Amsterdam
International Schools in The Hague

Nurseries in the Netherlands

Childcare in the Netherlands is flexible and varied. Options range from daycare centres and preschools to childminders and after-school programmes. From as early as three months old, your child can attend daycare, which typically operates for most of the day.

Preschools cater for children aged two to four and, in some areas like Amsterdam, offer up to 16 hours of weekly attendance at income-based rates. Accessibility varies, with urban areas offering a wider range of options than rural regions. When choosing a nursery, factors such as proximity, quality of care, and flexibility often play a crucial role for parents.

Special educational needs in the Netherlands

The Netherlands prioritises inclusive education, offering tailored support for students with disabilities and special needs. When you register with your local municipality, you will be guided to appropriate schools and resources. Assessments may be conducted to determine the best fit for your child’s needs.

Special-needs education is delivered through two types of schools: speciaal basisonderwijs (SBO), which features smaller class sizes and extended primary years, and speciaal onderwijs, which is divided into clusters based on specific needs, such as sensory impairments or behavioural challenges. These schools ensure that every child receives the attention and care they deserve while balancing inclusion and specialised support.

Useful links

• Government of the Netherlands: Appropriate Education
• Nederlandse Vereniging voor Autisme (Autism Netherlands)
• MEE: Support for People with Disabilities

Homeschooling in the Netherlands

Homeschooling is generally not permitted in the Netherlands, as school attendance is compulsory for children aged 5 to 16. Exceptions may be granted under strict conditions, such as a lack of suitable schools that align with your educational or philosophical beliefs. These cases require approval from the local municipality.

To qualify for an exemption, parents must submit a written declaration detailing their objections to local schools or explaining the child’s specific educational needs. The municipality assesses these requests thoroughly. If approved, the exemption typically lasts one year and requires annual renewal. Progress monitoring may also be implemented to ensure the child receives an adequate education.

Tutors in the Netherlands

Finding a tutor in the Netherlands is straightforward. Whether your child requires extra academic support or you want to improve your Dutch language skills, private tutoring is a flexible solution. Many expats turn to online platforms such as Apprentus and TeacherOn to connect with experienced tutors.

Popular subjects for tutoring include mathematics, sciences, and language acquisition. Tutors can also help prepare your child for standardised tests, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB). Online tutoring platforms have grown in popularity, offering convenient, personalised lessons to fit your schedule.

Useful links

• Apprentus: Find a Tutor
• TeacherOn: Online Tutoring