Navigating the Dutch Educational System

Moving to the Netherlands with children comes with its own set of challenges, one of the most important being the education system. While the Dutch are proud of their strong educational traditions, recent world rankings have highlighted some areas for improvement, particularly in reading.

Still, the Dutch education system remains known for its focus on inclusivity, practical learning, and fostering independence in students.

Various forms of education

For expat families, understanding how the system works can make the transition smoother. Whether you’re looking at primary schools or preparing for secondary education, the Netherlands offers a range of options, from public Dutch schools to international schools that cater to non-Dutch speakers.

This blog will guide you through the key features, including different school types and how the Dutch approach education, so you can find the right fit for your family.

Challenges Facing Dutch Primary Education

In recent years, the Dutch primary education system has faced several challenges that have impacted both students and teachers. One of the most pressing issues is the ongoing teacher shortage, with many schools struggling to maintain full staffing.

This shortage has led to larger class sizes and an increased workload for the remaining teachers, who often face an overload of administrative tasks on top of their teaching responsibilities.

Testing, testing, testing

Another growing concern is the trend toward constant testing and assessment, with children being evaluated throughout their school years.

While the Dutch system has long focused on tracking progress, the increased emphasis on standardized testing has sparked debates about whether it places unnecessary pressure on young students and limits their creativity. Many educators are calling for a balance that allows for personal development while still ensuring academic progress.

Compulsory Education

Education is compulsory (‘leerplicht’) for children in the Netherlands from the ages of 5 to 16. This ensures that all children have access to foundational learning opportunities during their formative years.

Primary Education (‘Basisonderwijs’)

Primary education in the Netherlands is straightforward, typically spanning from ages 4 to 12. Children attend primary school (‘basisschool’) where they receive a broad education covering various subjects.

Freedom of School (‘Vrijheid van Onderwijs’)

One unique feature of the Dutch education system is the “freedom of education” enshrined in the Dutch Constitution. This principle allows for a diverse range of schools to exist, reflecting the values and beliefs of various communities. In the Netherlands, parents are free to choose from public schools, religious schools (such as Catholic, Protestant, or Islamic), and schools with specific educational philosophies (like Montessori, Waldorf, or Dalton).

This freedom means that while all schools must meet national educational standards, they are allowed to organize their teaching and curriculum in line with their founding principles. As a result, Dutch primary education offers a variety of teaching styles and approaches. Whether you prefer a secular education or one based on a particular religion or philosophy, there are options to match your preferences.

This system of “freedom of school” gives Dutch parents the ability to select a school that best aligns with their values, ensuring a diverse and personalized education system. However, it also presents challenges, as not all schools have the same resources or teacher availability, which can lead to variation in quality.

Secondary Education (‘Middelbare School’)

The Dutch secondary education system is where things become more complex. Unlike systems like that of the USA, where students generally attend a single Middle- and Highschool, Dutch students are divided, after leaving Primary Education, into different educational tracks based on their academic level and interests.

Three main streams in Dutch secondary education

1. VMBO (Voorbereidend Middelbaar Beroepsonderwijs): This track prepares students for vocational training and typically lasts for 4 years.

2. HAVO (Hoger Algemeen Voortgezet Onderwijs): Thia track is a middle-level stream that prepares students for higher education at colleges or applied sciences (‘hoge scholen’). It lasts for 5 years.

3. VWO (Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs): This track is the most academically rigorous and prepares students for university. It typically spans 6 years.

By understanding the structure and pathways of the Dutch education system, expats can make informed decisions about their children’s education and better integrate into Dutch

society. Whether pursuing vocational training or preparing for university, the Netherlands offers a diverse range of educational opportunities tailored to meet the needs and aspirations of every student.

The Dutch education system is also praised for its efforts to encourage self-responsibility and decision-making skills in students compared to other foreign education systems (like the American and many Asian). Let’s highlight some elements of this briefly:

Empowering Self-Responsibility
Dutch education emphasizes self-responsibility and decision-making skills, contrasting with some American systems that may foster dependency.

Student-Centered Learning
Dutch classrooms prioritize student-centered approaches, fostering independence and curiosity.

Critical Thinking
Dutch students are encouraged to question, analyze, and form opinions, preparing them for societal roles.

Practical Learning
Hands-on experiences in internships and projects develop real-world skills and adaptability.

Transition to Adulthood
The Dutch system equips students with autonomy and confidence for future academic and societal endeavors.

If you’re eager to dive deeper into Dutch culture, including our quirks and unique way of life, consider hiring a private Dutch tutor from Flowently. Our Flowently tutors are native speakers who can help you master everyday Dutch and speak ‘Nederlands’ fluently. They can also help you make decisions in the Dutch educational system.