Selecting a school in Netherlands can feel like one of the most stressful parts of moving with kids. Websites rarely convey what everyday life is truly like, and every family’s priorities differ. This guide emphasizes practical questions and a straightforward decision framework — especially for families planning a move to Amsterdam.
First: Define What “Good” Means for Your Family
Before comparing schools, identify your non-negotiables. Most decision mistakes come from weighing everything at once without a clear priority list.
- Commute: daily driving time matters more than you realize.
- Curriculum: British / American / IB / local options.
- Language environment: what your child is exposed to throughout the day.
- Support: learning support, ESL support, pastoral care.
- Culture fit: structure, discipline, and communication style.
How to Decide Without Feeling Overwhelmed
A practical approach that works well for expat families:
A simple process
- Shortlist by location first. In Amsterdam, traffic can transform a decent school into a daily hassle.
- Confirm availability and admissions timeline. Waiting lists are common.
- Ask about the classroom reality. Class sizes, teacher turnover, and how communication is handled.
- Ask about support. ESL / learning support / transition assistance for new students.
- Do one visit (or virtual tour) per finalist. Trust what you observe over glossy brochures.
Pro tip: Create a one-page checklist and rate each school after visiting. It helps avoid the “everything feels the same” issue.
Questions Worth Asking About Schools
These questions typically uncover more than generic “tell us about your program” discussions:
- What is the typical class size for this age group?
- How do you accommodate new students mid-year?
- How do teachers communicate with parents (weekly updates, apps, email)?
- What does a typical day look like (start and end times, breaks, homework expectations)?
- How do you support kids who are anxious or adjusting to a new country?
- What is the policy on language support (ESL) if needed?
- How do you manage heat, indoor and outdoor time during hot months?
Costs and Logistics (The Unloved Details)
School choices aren't about tuition alone. Consider the full routine cost:
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Deciding based on reputation alone: the everyday routine matters more.
- Overlooking commute time: it influences sleep, mood, and family life.
- Assuming “international” means identical everywhere: it isn't.
- Not inquiring about support: transitions are real for children.
- Waiting too long: admission timelines can be tighter than anticipated.
Bottom Line
The ideal school typically matches your family's actual schedule: its location, the support you receive, and everyday ease for your child—not the one that markets most aggressively.
If you'd like help sorting priorities for Amsterdam (commute, routines, questions to ask), get in touch — or call +31 20 1234567.