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 overwhelming. Terms like vmbo, havo and vwo are unfamiliar to many parents who come from different educational systems.

Yet these pathways play an important role in shaping a child’s academic journey. Knowing how the system works helps parents support their children and make confident choices about their education.

This guide explains the structure of Dutch secondary education in clear and practical terms for expat families.

Online Dutch lessons for international children

A personal note

Many expat parents ask us how the Dutch high school system works. Over the years, I have spoken with many international parents who felt uncertain about the Dutch school system when their children approached secondary school.

Some families had just arrived in the Netherlands. Others had lived here for years but still found the structure confusing. Questions often arise about school levels, bilingual education, or whether Dutch schools are the right choice compared with international schools.

What I always tell parents is this: once you understand the structure, the Dutch system actually offers many opportunities. Children can grow within the system and even change pathways later if their interests or abilities develop differently.

Understanding the possibilities is the first step in helping your child feel confident and supported in their education.

What is the Dutch secondary education system?

The Dutch secondary education system is the structure of high school education in the Netherlands for children aged around 12 to 18 years. After primary school, students enter one of several levels: vocational education, VMBO Basis, VMBO Kader, VMBO-T (Mavo), HAVO and VWO. These levels prepare students for different future pathways such as vocational education, universities of applied sciences or research universities.

Types of secondary schools in the Netherlands

Secondary schools in the Netherlands come in different forms. While the curriculum is nationally regulated, schools can differ in their educational philosophy or approach.

The most common distinction is between public schools and schools based on religion or philosophy of life. Public schools are open to all students and are not connected to a particular belief system. Other schools may follow Catholic, Protestant, Muslim or humanistic traditions.

In practice, many expat families choose schools based more on location, atmosphere and educational approach than on religious background.

Some schools follow specific educational philosophies. Montessori schools encourage independence and self‑directed learning. Dalton schools focus on responsibility, cooperation and reflection. Jenaplan education emphasises community and personal development, while Waldorf (Steiner) education integrates creativity and artistic expression into the curriculum.

Although teaching approaches may differ, students graduate with the same nationally recognised diplomas: vmbo, havo or vwo.

Bilingual secondary education for expats? (TTO)

Some secondary schools offer bilingual education, known in Dutch as tweetalig onderwijs (tto).

In these schools, part of the curriculum is taught in another language, usually English. In the first years of havo and vwo programs, at least half of the lessons are taught in English. In vmbo programs the proportion is lower but still significant.

Teachers in bilingual programs receive special training so they can teach both subject content and language effectively. Schools must also ensure that the use of English does not negatively affect students’ development in Dutch.

International activities are an important part of bilingual education. Many schools organise exchanges, language trips or international projects.

Students in bilingual programs still take their final exams in Dutch and receive a standard Dutch diploma, combined with an additional certificate recognising their bilingual proficiency.

For some expat children, bilingual education can feel like a softer transition into the Dutch system. However, it is important to remember that bilingual schools are not the same as international schools. Students are still expected to function academically in Dutch.

 

The different levels of secondary education

One of the most distinctive features of the Dutch education system is that students enter different educational levels depending on their abilities and learning styles.

Vmbo – Preparatory vocational education

Vmbo is a four‑year program that combines theoretical subjects with practical learning. Students often specialise in areas such as technology, healthcare or economics. After vmbo most students continue to mbo vocational education.

MBO – Vocational secondary education

Vocational secondary education (MBO) is a Dutch educational system that follows directly from VMBO (and HAVO/VWO) and provides training for specific professions, with a strong emphasis on practical experience. It offers courses at four levels (1 to 4) through two pathways: BOL (full-time school-based) and BBL (work-based learning).

Havo – Higher general secondary education

Havo takes five years and prepares students mainly for higher professional education (hbo). Students follow a broad curriculum and later specialise in subject profiles such as science, economics or culture.

Vwo – Preparatory university education

Vwo lasts six years and prepares students for research universities. Within vwo there are two variants: atheneum and gymnasium, with gymnasium including Latin and Greek.

Practical education (pro)

Practical education is designed for students who benefit from a more hands‑on learning approach and prepares them directly for work or further vocational training.

 

International schools vs Dutch schools

Many expat families consider whether to choose an international school or a Dutch secondary school.

International schools offer globally recognised curricula such as the International Baccalaureate or British programs and are usually taught fully in English.

Dutch secondary schools provide deeper integration into Dutch society and culture. For families planning to stay longer in the Netherlands, this can be a valuable experience.

 

The Doorstroomtoets and school recommendation

A key moment for many children in the Netherlands occurs at the end of primary school. During the final year, students receive a school recommendation that indicates which level of secondary education is most suitable for them.

This recommendation is based on a combination of factors, including academic results, classroom performance and the professional judgement of the primary school teacher.

Many students also take the Doorstroomtoets, a national assessment that helps confirm the recommended level. While the test result can influence the recommendation, the teacher’s advice remains the most important factor.

For expat families, this process can feel unfamiliar. You can learn more by reading our article about the Doostroom result via this link.

It is also helpful to talk with your child’s teacher and understand how the recommendation is determined and what options exist if your child develops differently later on.

How to choose the right secondary school

Choosing a secondary school often begins with research. Parents compare schools, explore their educational approaches and attend open days.

Visiting a school together with your child can be extremely helpful. The atmosphere of a school, the connection with teachers and the overall environment are often just as important as academic results.

Primary school teachers can also provide valuable guidance because they understand your child’s strengths and learning style.

 

Common mistakes expat parents make

When international families start exploring the Dutch school system, misunderstandings are common.

One frequent misconception is assuming that bilingual education is the same as international education. Bilingual schools still follow the Dutch curriculum, and students take their final exams in Dutch.

Another mistake is underestimating how important Dutch becomes in secondary school. Even when some lessons are in English, many assignments and exams require strong Dutch skills.

Some parents also worry that the first school recommendation determines their child’s entire future. In reality, the Dutch system offers flexibility and several opportunities for students to move between levels later on.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between vmbo, havo and vwo?

Vmbo focuses more on practical learning and prepares students mainly for vocational education. Havo prepares students for universities of applied sciences. Vwo prepares students for research universities.

Can expat children attend Dutch secondary schools?

Yes, expat children can attend Dutch secondary schools. However, they usually need a sufficient level of Dutch to follow lessons successfully.

Is bilingual education the same as an international school?

No. Bilingual education is still part of the Dutch education system and students follow the Dutch national curriculum.

At what age do children start secondary school in the Netherlands?

Most children start secondary school at around age 12, after finishing group 8 in primary school.

 

Language support in the Dutch secondary education system

For many international families, language is the biggest challenge when entering the Dutch education system. A strong foundation in Dutch makes a huge difference for school success and confidence. Helping children develop strong Dutch language skills early can make their transition into secondary school much smoother.

Preparing Your Child for the Dutch Secondary Education System

A strong foundation in Dutch makes a significant difference when children enter secondary school. Understanding school vocabulary, reading confidently and participating in class discussions help students adapt more easily to their new environment.

If you would like to support your child before entering secondary school, you can explore our online Dutch lessons for international children, where we help students build the language skills they need for school success. You can read more about our online lessons over here.

 

The Dutch secondary education system offers many paths

At first glance, the Dutch secondary education system may seem complex. But once you understand the structure, it becomes clear that it offers many different routes for children with different talents and ambitions.

What matters most is finding a school environment where your child feels comfortable and motivated to learn.

And remember: a first choice is rarely a final one. The Dutch system allows students to move between levels or continue studying later in life. Your child’s educational journey remains full of possibilities.

Book your free introduction meeting with Dutch for Children via this link

 

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