Are you new to the country or the Dutch education system, or simply looking for the right school for your child’s future? Where should my child go to school?

We understand that choosing the right school for your child can be challenging. There is no single right answer.

The Netherlands offers different types of education, from Dutch mainstream schools to bilingual and international schools. The best choice depends on your family’s plans, your child’s needs, and where you think life may take you next.

The right school is the best fit for your family.

How long are you planning to live in the NL?

If you are an international family living in the Netherlands, you may expect to return home or relocate to another country within a few years, or you may be planning to make the Netherlands your family’s long-term (permanent) home.

You may also be a Dutch family returning from abroad, planning to move abroad within the next few years, or simply looking for an education for your child within an international environment.

Not sure how long you will stay in the Netherlands?

That’s also perfectly normal. Many international families move to the Netherlands with long-term employment contracts without a clear plan for the years ahead. In this situation, consider how easy it would be to change direction later. A school may offer an international pathway, a Dutch pathway, or both. Plans can change unexpectedly, so understanding your options before enrolling can help avoid a difficult transition later.

What should you consider when choosing a school? International, Dutch, or bilingual education?

An English-language international school can be particularly attractive for families who expect to relocate internationally and want to maintain continuity with an international academic pathway. Look for a diverse, internationally minded community, strong transition support, and a curriculum that can move with your child between countries.

A Dutch mainstream school can be a natural choice for families planning to build their long-term future in the Netherlands. It provides an opportunity for children to develop their Dutch language skills, integrate into Dutch society, and follow the Dutch education system.

A bilingual programme can offer a combination of both. For example, a 70% Dutch / 30% English model can provide a structured route towards Dutch education while maintaining English as an important part of the child’s education.

Language is more than what is spoken in the classroom; it can affect friendships, confidence, identity, future education, and how easily a child feels at home.

What could your child’s future education pathway look like?

Your choice of primary and secondary education may influence your child’s future options, whether they continue into Dutch secondary and higher education or follow an international pathway with a curriculum that can transfer more easily to universities worldwide.

Thinking about the next stage of education when choosing a school can help you avoid unnecessary transitions later.

Choose where your child is going, not only where your family is today.

The right school depends on your family’s circumstances, future plans, and your child’s individual needs.

Different families need different pathways.

The ISE offers three educational pathways, allowing families to consider what fits their circumstances today and their plans tomorrow.

Whether your family is looking for an international education, a Dutch pathway, or a combination of both, understanding your options is the first step towards making the right choice for your child.

To learn more about our departments and what they offer, please join us at one of our Introduction Sessions.

The pre-schoolers (toddlers) and their families, please join one of our VIP mornings for a morning especially designed for your child to experience our Early Years Programme at our school.
*Please note that these mornings are specially designed for toddlers aged 2.5 and up, accompanied by their parent(s), to get a taste of our Early Years Programme and join in our EYP learning environment. Space is limited.