International school vs Dutch school: what to choose? For many international families moving to the Netherlands, choosing the right school for their children is one of the most important decisions they will make. If you're wondering how to help your child learn Dutch...
In this guide, we explain the Dutch secondary education system, including vmbo, havo, vwo, bilingual education and the choices expat families often face. If you are an international family living in the Netherlands, understanding the Dutch school system can feel...
When the Doorstroomtoets 2026 results arrive, many international parents wonder how to interpret the numbers and what they mean for secondary school placement in the Netherlands. After the test in February, there is usually a waiting period of a few weeks. For many...
What is the Doorstroomtoets (transfer test) 2026, and what does it mean for your child? The Doortroomtoets 2026 is a compulsory national test for all Grade 8 students in Dutch primary schools. For international and expat families, this test often raises many...
Dutch language levels explained: Understanding Dutch language levels in education is important so you know what to expect and how to handle your child's (ren) Dutch learning. Are you an international family planning to (re)move to the Netherlands? Or are you already...
Dutch lessons for expat teenagers to overcome judgment. In the Netherlands, tweens and teenagers are judged by their level of Dutch. It is harsh, but it is happening because the assessment in the Netherlands is still very Dutch language-based. Furthermore, schools...
"IB Dutch: what is it?" parents at Dutch for Children regularly ask me. Ib nl, or international baccalaureate Dutch, is an international education program focused on the Dutch language and literature. Students can follow this at several (international) schools under...
Testing in the Netherlands in primary education is more than numbers. In Dutch primary education, students encounter countless tests, such as the well-known M test and E test. But what do these numbers tell us about your child? And how do we ensure that these tests...
With these tips for expat parents and children, a smooth start to the new school year is easy. For expat and international families, the start of a new school year brings excitement and challenges. As summer slowly gives way to autumn, children are ready to start a...