Transition class, language class and ISK. For international and expat parents, entering the Dutch education system can be pretty overwhelming. In this article, I explain what transition classes (language classes NT2) and ISKs do, how long the programmes last, when extra support is needed, and how your child can participate more quickly in class, including the role of reading comprehension in CITO/IEP or other pupil tracking systems in the Netherlands.

What is a transition class (language class NT2)?

A transition class in the Netherlands is designed for children entering the education system who have Dutch as a second language. It is also known as an NT2 language class. If your child is learning Dutch as a second language and has been living in the Netherlands for less than 1 to 2 years and has also attended Dutch education for less than a year, you can choose to send them to a language class. In such a language class, the Dutch language is at the centre. Pupils typically stay in such a class for one year, with a maximum of two years, before transitioning to regular Dutch education. For children of primary school age, there are these transition classes or NT2 task classes.

Note the terminology: “transition class” and “language class” are often used interchangeably in primary education.

What is an ISK (International Transition Class)?

The ISK is for pupils of secondary school age. ISKs are intended to prepare foreign-language pupils for Dutch-language education. Education consists not only of learning the language, but also of becoming acquainted with the school culture in the Netherlands and studying Dutch subjects.

These videos by Lowan provide an overview of the ISK in relation to the Dutch education system. They are beneficial for pupils and parents who do not have a good command of Dutch or who want to know more about the ISK and the Dutch education system.

What exactly is a ”Kopklas”?

A Kopklas is an additional school year focused on the Dutch language, designed to ensure that pupils can make a smooth start in secondary education. It is not a separate educational programme. In these classes, the emphasis is on further building vocabulary, sounds and pronunciation. It is a period of intensive language lessons aimed at reaching the desired level for starting secondary education.

Transition class versus regular education: why transition requires a tailored approach

Not all transition or language classes are the same. Much is determined by the budget, the training of the teachers and the number of children. Research shows that it is better for language development if pupils with a different mother tongue start in mainstream education straight away. These NT2 pupils need at least four years to reach the level of their classmates. In a separate language class, they do not receive the rich input of Dutch-speaking pupils. It is important that mainstream education has a positive and inclusive climate, where there is also room for their mother tongue. This applies to NT2 pupils of all ages and backgrounds. In addition, they must receive long-term and systematic extra support from an NT2 specialist.

In the Netherlands, there are various language classes or programs available. Not every city or region has the same kinds but it is good t know what is possible. Below are the four variants.

Language class variants in the Netherlands

• Full-time: almost all education in the transition class (≥ 880 hours/year).
• Part-time: at least 8 hours/week in the transition class, the rest in their own group.
• Extended school day: ± 2.5 hours/week extra language (± 100 hours/year).
• Preparatory class after group 8: an intensive language year for a good start in secondary education. Placement is done in consultation with parents/guardians.

Find a transition class or ISK in your city or area

Overview of language/transition classes in several cities:

• Amsterdam: Education for newcomers
• Rotterdam: New to the Netherlands and going to school
• The Hague: New to the Netherlands and going to school
• ISKs: Overview of Lowan schools

.If your (future) place of residence is not listed, Google or search for: “transition class + place name” or “ISK + place name”, or contact the local authority.

Information about language and transition classes:

• Language development of NT2 pupils
• Quality of language classes
• Is two years of ISK sufficient?
• The ISK and the Dutch education system

Valuable questions to ask during your orientation:

• Are there specific start dates and waiting lists?
• Is a part-time or extended day option possible?
• What does the transition to the regular class look like?
• Is there NT2 expertise in the school after the transition class?
• How are reading comprehension and subject-specific language learning supported?

What if there is a waiting list?

Bridge the gap as quickly as possible with targeted (online) NT2 support on reading comprehension and vocabulary, so that entry is faster and smoother. It also helps a child build a foundation in the themes they will encounter immediately in practice, such as school, making friends, and sports or hobbies. A few weeks of targeted practice already make a visible difference.

Why a language class alone is sometimes not enough, and what does help

A language class is a strong start. However, growth sometimes stagnates, for example, due to the following reason(s):

• A lot of English in the schoolyard/surroundings, resulting in much less immersion in Dutch.
• Comfort zone with native speakers; this is socially beneficial for children, but provides fewer opportunities to practise Dutch.
• Large differences in level within a single group, meaning that instruction is too slow or too fast for some children.
• Limited reading time and a narrow range of reading strategies lead to poor reading comprehension.
• Little school language/subject vocabulary (such as mathematics).
• There are still a few Dutch routines at home, because parents do not (yet) speak Dutch.

Actions that bridge the gap or intensify learning:

• 1-on-1 or mini-groups on specific gaps (vocabulary, sentence structure, writing & listening skills).
• Reading strategies: summarising, signal words, primary/secondary points, and recognising question types.
• Testing skills for CITO/IEP/BOOM/DIA with realistic practice texts.
• Home routines: 10 to 15 minutes per day of listening/reading/silent reading, as well as watching Dutch children’s programmes.
• Tailor-made plan with assessment moments (CEFR and reference levels 1F to 2F).

Result: faster progression, more self-confidence and better performance in language and subject-specific subjects.

How does Dutch for Children help?

At Dutch for Children, we offer tailor-made solutions. We teach children one-on-one the first vocabulary and sentences related to the themes they are interested in and need to learn. Fully adapted to your child’s overall educational level and age. We focus on, among other things:

• Reading comprehension (strategies and practice texts such as those used in the CITO, IEP or other tests
• School language & youth Dutch (practical for use in the classroom and socially).
• Subject-specific vocabulary (such as history, mathematics, etc.).
• Alignment with CEFR and 1F-2F (read more about these levels here )

👉 Schedule your free online introductory meeting here to discuss the options for your child. We are happy to help them with a personalised plan of action. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using the link provided.