Choosing a school in Netherlands can feel like the most challenging part of moving with children. Websites seldom describe daily life accurately, and every family has its own priorities. This guide focuses on practical considerations and a straightforward decision method — particularly for families planning a move to Amsterdam.
First: Define What “Good” Means for Your Family
Before evaluating schools, set your non-negotiables. Many selection errors occur when families compare too much at once without a clear set of priorities.
- Commute: how long you spend commuting each day is more influential than you might assume.
- Curriculum: UK / US / IB / local options.
- Language environment: the language your child is exposed to throughout the day.
- Support: learning support, ESL assistance, pastoral care.
- Culture fit: the school's structure, discipline, and communication approach.
How to Decide Without Feeling Overwhelmed
A practical method that suits expatriate families well:
A straightforward process
- Shortlist by location first. In Amsterdam, traffic can turn a “good” school into a daily slog.
- Confirm availability and admissions timeline. Waiting lists are common.
- Inquire about the classroom realities. Class sizes, teacher turnover, communication style.
- Ask about support services. ESL / learning support / transition assistance for new students.
- Schedule one visit (or virtual tour) for each finalist. Value your observations more than glossy brochures.
Pro tip: Create a one-page checklist and rate each school after a visit. It helps avoid the “everything feels identical” issue.
Questions Worth Asking Schools
These questions often uncover more than generic “tell us about your program” discussions:
- What is the typical class size for this age?
- How do you handle new students mid-year?
- How do teachers communicate with parents (weekly updates, apps, email)?
- What does the day actually look like (start/end times, breaks, homework expectations)?
- How do you support kids who are anxious or adjusting to a new country?
- What is the policy for language support (ESL) if needed?
- How do you handle heat/indoor/outdoor time in hotter months?
Costs and Logistics (The Part Everyone Avoids)
Choosing a school isn’t only about tuition. Take into account the total everyday price:
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Choosing by reputation alone: the daily routine matters more.
- Ignoring commute time: it affects sleep, mood, and family life.
- Assuming “international” means the same everywhere: it doesn’t.
- Not asking about support: transitions are real for kids.
- Waiting too long: admissions timelines can be tighter than expected.
The Takeaway
Usually the best school is the one that fits your family’s actual routine: its location, the support it offers, and everyday comfort for your child—not the one that flaunts the best marketing.
If you’d like help sorting priorities for Amsterdam (commute, routines, what to ask), get in touch — or call +31 20 123 4567.