As we are preparing for a new school year, I thought I should write an article that covers all the things I’ve learned so far about the Dutch education system. The truth is that navigating the education system in a new country can be daunting, especially when the system differs from what you are used to. Whether you’re an expat family new to the Netherlands or a parent just starting to think about your child’s education, I hope this article will help you get a clearer picture of the Dutch education system.
I admit I don’t have a lot of experience yet with the Dutch education system as this is only our third year with a school-aged child, but so far we are impressed with it. In this guide, I will try to give you the ins and outs of the Dutch education system, from registering your child for school to understanding the grading system and exploring secondary education options.
Registering Your Child for School
When to Start?
In the Netherlands, children must be registered for school at age four, although schooling is only compulsory from age five. Most parents, however, choose to enroll their children as soon as they turn four to help them acclimate. Even though Emily still didn’t know Dutch, we decided to register her at a regular school when she turned four so she could practice the language and her social skills. You should start the registration process sooner than later, especially if you live in urban areas where schools can fill up quickly. When we moved we had to register her in a new school and were lucky that we could start immediately, because now there are no more available spaces in our school.
How to Register?
The process can vary slightly depending on the municipality (gemeente) you live in. Certain cities and regions use a lottery system (loting) for primary school admissions due to high demand and limited spots in popular schools. The lottery system is most commonly used in urban areas such as Amsterdam or Haarlem, and other cities where population density and school popularity make it challenging to accommodate all students.
In other cities that don’t use the lottery system, you’ll need to:
- Choose a School: Research schools in your area and choose the one whose education ethos matches your ideas. Most parents choose a school that is close by to make it easier. This is also good for developing friendships as they will be in school with the neighborhood kids with whom they can play even after school. Some expat parents prefer schools that offer bilingual programs where students are taught in both Dutch and English or international schools.
- Visit Schools: Many schools offer open days (open dagen) where you can visit, meet teachers, and see the school environment. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and get a feel for the school and the environment.
- Register at Your Chosen School: Once you’ve selected a school, you can register directly with them. You will most likely have to fill out a registration form and provide proof of identity and address.
Primary education (Basisonderwijs)
Primary education usually takes eight years, from ages 4 to 12, with kids starting in groep 1 (group 1) and finishing with groep 8 (group 8).
Curriculum
The curriculum is broad and covers different subjects from Dutch language, mathematics, science, history, geography, and physical education. From my experience, this is done in a relaxed and fun way which makes kids actually enjoy learning. Emily is starting group 3 now and can’t wait to learn something new. I still remember that feeling of dread I had at the beginning of each new school year.
Assessment
Throughout primary school, children’s progress is regularly assessed through classroom evaluations, but they mostly concentrate on the child’s development and not grades. Our latest assessment briefly mentioned how Emily is getting along with the alphabet. But they have written in great detail about how she helps the teachers and smaller kids, how she is learning to stand up for herself, and how she is open to play with everyone. This was nice to hear as most often when we ask Emily how was school she would just answer: “Good, we played”. Luckily, now we learned to ask different questions.
There are no national standardized tests until the final year when students take the Cito-toets or another equivalent test. This test, combined with the teacher’s advice, helps determine the most suitable secondary education path for each child.
Essentials
Every school has different requirements for what your child must bring to school, but you don’t have to worry that it will be too much. We were extremely surprised to discover that they don’t need to carry heavy bags full of books. Instead, they usually just have to bring fruit and lunch in their lunchbox and a bottle of water. On the days they have a gym, they will also have to bring a change of clothes.
Secondary Education (Voortgezet Onderwijs)
The Dutch secondary education system is divided into several tracks, which are determined by the student’s Cito score and teacher recommendation.
Types of Secondary Schools
- VMBO (Voorbereidend Middelbaar Beroepsonderwijs): This is a preparatory vocational education that lasts four years. It prepares students for vocational training or apprenticeships.
- HAVO (Hoger Algemeen Voortgezet Onderwijs): A five-year program that prepares students for higher vocational education (HBO), which is comparable to college-level education.
- VWO (Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs): A six-year program designed for students aiming to attend research universities (WO). This is the most academically rigorous track and focuses on theoretical subjects.
Students who excel or struggle in their chosen track can often switch tracks during their secondary education, based on their performance and interests. You can also help prepare your kids for further education
Grading System
The Dutch grading system uses a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the highest. Here’s a basic breakdown:
- 10: Excellent (uitmuntend)
- 9: Very good (zeer goed)
- 8: Good (goed)
- 7: More than satisfactory (ruim voldoende)
- 6: Satisfactory (voldoende)
- 5: Almost satisfactory (bijna voldoende)
- 4 and below: Insufficient (onvoldoende)
A passing grade is typically a 6 or higher, though some schools or programs might have different requirements.
Higher Education Pathways
MBO (Middelbaar Beroepsonderwijs): Students from the VMBO track often continue to MBO, which offers practical, hands-on training in a variety of fields, ranging from healthcare to technology. MBO programs last between one and four years, depending on the level.
HBO (Hoger Beroepsonderwijs): This is higher vocational education, accessible to students from HAVO or MBO. HBO programs focus on preparing students for specific professions and usually last four years.
WO (Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs): This is university-level education, which VWO graduates typically pursue. WO focuses on academic research and theoretical knowledge, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Education Costs and Financial Support
Public education in primary and secondary is free but parents are often asked for contribution. This contribution is usually used to cover extra-curricular activities, trips, or special projects. Usually, it is modest. We were asked to contribute 30 euros in the last school.
Families can apply to kinderbijslag (child benefit) or studiefinanciering (student finance) to help cover education costs.
School Calendar
- Holiday Schedule: Dutch schools have a generous holiday schedule, including autumn, Christmas, spring, and summer breaks, as well as several public holidays. The holidays are determined well in advance so parents can plan ahead for any necessary childcare and vacations. Just remember, taking children out of school during term for vacations is generally not allowed unless under special circumstances.
- Free day ( studiedag): Every primary school in the Netherlands can use up to 7 study days per school year. These are the days when your kids are free from school while the school staff works on their professional development. This is why it is important to pay attention to the school calendar.
- Short School Days: Many primary schools have half-days on Wednesdays, with kids finishing around 12/12:30.
After School
- After-school care: If you work full-time or need extra support, after-school care (BSO or NSO) is widely available. They provide supervised care and activities for children until parents can pick them up. They quickly fill up so make sure to sign up your kid as soon as possible.
- Playdates: Children often have playdates after school, with your kid going to their friend’s house or the other way around. While stressful for the parent (especially if you don’t speak Dutch), they are great for social development. And who knows, you might learn some Dutch words.
Final Thoughts
We are currently only familiar with the Dutch education system up to group 3, but I am impressed with what I’ve seen. The kids are learning through play and in a way that is adapted to them. It is no wonder why they love going to school. I am the one who is nervous every morning, not her, and I love that for her.