Comparing 10 schools side by side in USD.
Senior School Voorschoten is situated in a residential neighbourhood in the suburban town of Voorschoten, just on the outskirts of The Hague. The campus is accessible via transport links to neighbouring towns like Leiden and Wassenaar. This provides a quiet environment for students while remaining connected to major Dutch urban centres.
The campus is structured to support Secondary School and Sixth Form students, generally accommodating children from 11 to 18 years of age. Students complete Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4, including GCSE examinations, before moving into the Sixth Form for their final two years.
Senior School Voorschoten is a co-educational day school that welcomes both boys and girls. The school operates exclusively as a day school and does not offer boarding facilities for any year groups.
Nearly 90 nationalities represented.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided within the mainstream classroom and in small groups or one-to-one EAL classes; Senior School EAL learners receive language support from acquisition specialists in small groups, with in-class support where possible.
Junior Schools: Arrival at 8:30, registration 8:45-9:00, lessons start 9:00, ends around 15:10-15:20. Senior Schools: Registration 8:45-8:50, periods run before 15:30, End of Day 15:30.
Flexible bus service serves Den Haag, Leidschendam, Rijswijk, Voorschoten and Wassenaar; up to 300 students use about 40 buses daily; vehicles are tracked by Achttax; Foundation 1 students are not offered the bus service.
No boarding is provided.
The BSN has a practical uniform for Foundation 2 to Year 11. The uniform includes items such as V-Neck Knit Jumper, polo shirts, pinafore/skirt and trousers, with a PE kit; uniforms are ordered online via Trutex.
A healthy (warm) snack is provided after school, and lunch on early dismissal and holiday days.
Pupils are assigned to a House on enrollment. There are four BSN Houses: Amsterdam (red), Delft (blue), Gouda (yellow) and Leiden (green). A points and competition system runs across Houses, culminating in a House Cup.
The BSN is an independent not-for-profit association (a Dutch vereniging) funded by fee income with no subsidy from the Dutch or British Governments. It is governed by a Board of Governors and an Association chaired by the British Ambassador; day-to-day operations are led by a Chief Executive Officer and the Executive Leadership Team.
Senior School Voorschoten provides an academic programme based on the English National Curriculum, which is adapted to suit the needs of its international student body. During Key Stage 3 (Years 7 to 9), students follow a broad foundation of subjects to prepare them for upper secondary education. In Years 10 and 11, students focus on specific subject areas and sit examinations for the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) qualifications. Upon entering the Sixth Form in Year 12, students can select from four distinct educational pathways for their final two years of study. Depending on their university and career goals, students can choose to pursue English A Levels, BTEC qualifications, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), or the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP).
35% of A Level exams awarded A-A in 2025; 34.1 average IB DP points achieved by BSN students; 100% pass rate for the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme; 58% of all SSV GCSE results were graded 9-7; 22% of all SSL GCSE results were graded 9; 100% BTEC pass rate.
The majority of BSN students go to university after leaving, with destinations including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and other countries. Average IB Diploma Programme points achieved by BSN students are 34.1.
BSN uses High Performance Learning (HPL) as a school-wide framework to develop higher-order thinking and independent learning. BSN is an HPL World Class School, accredited after joining the HPL global network in 2023. HPL focuses on how to think (advanced cognitive skills) and how to be (perseverance, curiosity, empathy). HPL language is used across subjects, with group projects, leadership opportunities, and home learning; the BSN Character Profile supports this approach.
Student wellbeing and mental health are a priority at The British School in the Netherlands. The school looks after students' academic progress as well as their emotional, physical and mental wellbeing through a network of support, advice and care that enables all children to flourish emotionally and socially, helping them thrive academically. Staff across all campuses build strong relationships with each student, ensuring they feel supported, heard and understood. There is a Health Officer on each campus who is available throughout the school day to assist if a child falls ill or is injured. The BSN Character Profile emphasises perseverance and compassion, with resilience as a core component of good mental health.
The BSN provides robust support for students with Additional Educational Needs (AEN). An AEN Lead Teacher leads inclusion work at campuses such as Junior School Leidschenveen, including a dedicated Sensory Room to support sensory needs. The school recognises inclusive education and offers dedicated AEN staff and spaces to enable learners with additional needs to access the curriculum. The Junior School Leidschenveen and other campuses employ AEN specialists who work with students in small groups or one-to-one sessions where possible. The BSN's accreditation materials highlight the school's commitment to providing robust support for AEN alongside EAL provision.
Moving to the BSN, the school values multilingualism and will support your child as they learn a new language. Staff are experienced in welcoming children from around the world and assessing learners from different educational backgrounds. When a student joins, the school establishes how much language support is needed to access the curriculum and community, with further in-person assessment after arrival as needed. In the Junior School, EAL is taught by specialist teachers and Translanguaging connects languages to learning. In the Senior School, students in need of extra language support work with language acquisition specialists in small groups and receive in-class support to develop academic English literacy. The curriculum is delivered in English, with ongoing development of English alongside students' home languages.
Student wellbeing and mental health are a priority at BSN. A network of support, advice and care enables all students to flourish emotionally and socially, supporting them to thrive academically. Staff build strong relationships with each student so they feel supported, heard and understood. There is a Health Officer on each campus available throughout the day to assist with health needs. The BSN Character Profile emphasises perseverance and compassion as a foundation for resilience and good mental health.
All members of The British School in the Netherlands are expected to act in the students' best interests by providing a safe and welcoming environment where all children are respected and valued. The Safeguarding Committee oversees adherence to the safeguarding protocol, which applies to staff, parents, volunteers, visitors, governors and children both on and off campus. Safeguarding entails protecting children from maltreatment, preventing impairment of health or development, ensuring safe care, and enabling the best outcomes. Core safeguarding principles include that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, equal protection rights for all children, and that the best interests of the child are paramount; staff follow the Safeguarding Policy and provide appropriate support. The school will support each child's development in a secure environment, raise staff awareness, monitor at-risk students, work with other agencies, and ensure that adults with access to children have current security checks. Designated Safeguarding Leads are available on each campus.
1. Enquire. This is the perfect first step. Ask a question or request personalised information to learn more about the programmes. There is no obligation, and the admissions team is ready to help. The BSN is non-selective and has places available in all year groups across the four campuses.
2. Visit. See learning in action with a personal tour. Schedule a visit with the Admissions team by telephone or email. For families who are unable to visit yet, an online call can be scheduled at a convenient time. Choosing the right school for a child is a personal decision, and staff are available to provide support at every step.
3. Apply. When ready to join, applicants are guided through a clear and straightforward application process. Applications are accepted throughout the year. For each application, there is a non-refundable fee of €250 (families with a child already at BSN do not need to pay). If an applicant is approved and a place is declined, the fee is retained; if a place cannot be offered, the fee is refunded.
Located at Breskensweg 5, 1324 KE Almere, Netherlands. The school lies between Literatuurwijk and Stedenwijk and is close to Almere Muziekwijk station, with several bus stops within walking distance. Free parking is available on site, and students may park their bicycles on site. The building is accessible to wheelchair users.
Primary and Secondary
IB World School offering all four IB programmes, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP).
For children with special needs or those requiring learning support, reports and relevant testing details are required before admission. The Learning Support Coordinator handles needs, and internal assessments may be required before admission. If, after a period of at least six weeks in school, the school cannot meet the academic, social/emotional or physical needs of a child, placement may be transferred to a more suitable establishment.
The secondary school day begins at 09:00 and consists of six periods, with two tea breaks and a lunch break integrated throughout the day. Regular classes end at 16:00, followed by Project Time until 16:30 and afterschool clubs that run until 17:00.
No boarding is provided. There is no school bus; public transport in Almere is well organized. After-school care is available through Partou, which operates a shuttle service and will pick up students attending BSO at the Club.
IS Almere students do not wear a uniform.
The school has a small canteen open during the lunch break and sells snacks. We encourage students to bring their own food from home in a lunch box.
ISAlmere is part of the Almeerse Scholen Groep (ASG). The primary section falls under the ASG school board, and the secondary section falls under Het Baken.
ISAlmere Secondary offers the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP), both IB-authorised and CIS-recognised. The MYP provides eight subject groups and prioritises interdisciplinary, holistic development, with MYP classes capped at 24 students. The DP comprises six subject groups plus a DP core; the core includes Theory of Knowledge, an Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity and Service. A Career-related Programme (CP) exists as a candidacy pathway for 16+ students, combining two DP subjects (DP Business and Management and DP Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations), the CP Core (Personal and Professional Skills, Reflective Project, Language and Cultural Studies (Chinese), Community Engagement), and a Career-related Study in Information Technology via a BTEC Level 3 International Diploma. The CP and DP are designed to prepare students for higher education and international careers.
MYP classes have a maximum of 24 students.
DP has been authorized since 2010 to prepare students for higher education and international careers. The 2025-2028 School Plan notes CP candidacy with a planned launch for 2025-2026, expanding progression options. DP and CP are designed to provide pathways to universities and international opportunities.
ISAlmere operates a year-group tailored mentor program that emphasizes social-emotional wellbeing. Mentors are the primary point of contact for students and families and collaborate with teachers and the Care Team to develop and implement support plans. The program embeds social-emotional competencies, including self-awareness, self-esteem, self-management, social awareness, friendship skills, and responsible decision-making, with a dedicated intake for new MYP1 students and ongoing reinforcement across year levels. It covers themes such as global citizenship, positive group dynamics, school safety, online behavior, gender diversity, and substance-use prevention. A Social Safety Coordinator promotes a safe, inclusive environment, while a Trust Persons role and Student Support Coordination support wellbeing across the school.
ISAlmere defines learners who require additional support as those experiencing significant difficulty accessing the curriculum, having a disability, medical or psychosocial condition, or needing adapted teaching approaches. The school provides internal support via the Care Team and Head of Care, including identification of needs, development of individual support plans, and inclusive arrangements such as Individual Educational Plans and inclusive access arrangements. English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners are not counted as needing additional learning support but are supported through the school's EAL framework. A three-level Support Framework – universal Tier 1, targeted Tier 2, and intensive Tier 3 – guides interventions to ensure all students can access learning.
English as an Additional Language is supported through the school's dedicated EAL framework rather than as part of general learning support.
Wellbeing is integrated through the mentor program and the school's care structure. The Head of Care, supported by the School Counsellor, coordinates student wellbeing and coordinates with external professionals as needed. The school's three-level Support Framework ensures universal wellbeing in Tier 1 and targeted supports at Tiers 2 and 3, with ongoing staff training to strengthen inclusive teaching and pastoral care.
ISAlmere maintains a Social Safety Policy and an anti-bullying protocol with zero tolerance to bullying. The policy defines bullying, outlines prevention and response procedures, and specifies the roles of mentors, teachers, support staff, parents, and an anti-bullying coordinator. Trust Persons are available to support students and families in sensitive cases, and Student Support Coordination, led by the Head of Care and a School Counsellor, oversees wellbeing and interventions, including collaboration with external services as needed.
1. Personal interview and guided tours: The school invites prospective students and their families for a personal interview to understand each student's needs, strengths, and goals, and offers guided tours to experience daily life and facilities. The admissions approach starts with connection to ensure students feel supported as part of a vibrant community. As an IB World School, the school provides English-language education for students aged 11 to 18.
2. Documentation and application submission: Submit the documents listed in the IGVO registration document for the application, and download and complete the School Fees Financial Obligation form for each child to submit with the application. Click Apply now under Admissions to complete and upload the application form, upload all relevant documents, and pay the application fee. Appointments for interviews are scheduled only after the complete application is submitted with the required documents and the application fee has been paid.
3. Entrance testing and admission decision: Arrange for the student to sit an entrance test if required, and admission officers will be in touch with the student's previous school.
4. Acceptance, placement, and start: After acceptance, parents receive an invoice for tuition to be paid within two weeks, and a place is reserved for the student after payment. Parents receive information about the first day of school in the first week of July or the start date, and the student completes a language profile form to place them in the appropriate language groups. If a child must leave during the school year, four weeks' notice is required, with refunds governed by the school's fee policy; enrolment is possible at any time during the school year if space is available and an entrance test may be required in some cases (notably for DP1 and MYP5).
5. Ongoing arrangements: If relocating within the Netherlands or abroad, notify the school in writing; transfers within the Netherlands typically occur after major holiday periods. The above steps reflect the information published by International School Almere regarding the admissions process, entry requirements for the DP programme, and the general admissions workflow.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, spaces are available across most secondary year levels, with MYP 1 having spaces, MYP 2 having limited availability, and MYP 3 and MYP 5 currently full and operating with waiting lists. CP and DP also have spaces available, while MYP 3 and MYP 5 are on waiting lists due to strong demand. A CP Information Evening is scheduled for March 17, 2026 (18:00–19:30).
The school is located at Verhulstlaan 21, 3055WJ Rotterdam, The Netherlands. It is a private international school in Rotterdam. Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam provides door-to-door bus transport to and from the campus, operated by Taxi Wooning V.O.F., with routes planned to minimize journey times. Bus routes are scheduled, with the aim of keeping most journeys to about 45 minutes where possible.
Early Years, Primary, Lower Secondary, Upper Secondary
International private school
More than 230 students from over 35 countries.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme provides English language support for students from Year 1 to Year 11; EAL support is provided at no extra cost.
The Netherlands
The school day starts at 8:10 am and ends at 3:05 pm. Foundation 1 and 2 finish at 12:00 pm on Wednesdays. Primary students register at 8:10 am, have a 45-minute lunch break, and afternoon pick-up is at 3:05 pm. After-school care and activities are available on campus after the formal day ends.
Door-to-door bus transport is provided to and from the Rotterdam campus by Taxi Wooning V.O.F.; the service operates on a fixed schedule with routes and zones, and fees are set according to transportation zones; changes may occur for after-school activities.
A NAISR Shark outfit is required for HAPE (Grades 2–8). The outfit costs 45 Euro. Athletic shoes must be laced or velcro with no open toes. All students change for HAPE.
The school cafeteria is run by Innergy and prepares healthy meals for students. Lunch times include a 45‑minute lunch break with Foundation 1 eating in classrooms at 12:00, Foundation 2 through Year 6 eating at 12:00 with a recess until 12:45, and Secondary lunch from 12:45–13:30.
The school uses a House system to foster a sense of community across age groups.
NAISR is part of Nord Anglia Education, a global network of premium international schools.
IMYC and NAISR Pre-IB Programme are used in the middle years; in the upper years, students choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the NAISR High School Diploma, which provides tailored, vocational pathways to higher education. The curriculum is delivered across six core pillars and enhanced by collaborations with MIT and UNICEF via Nord Anglia Education, with further learning through the Nord Anglia University platform.
IBDP points scores are consistently above the global average, and graduates go to top Dutch and international universities.
Graduates attend top Dutch and international universities, including institutions in the UK, US, and across mainland Europe.
The wellbeing programme is underpinned by core values guiding physical health, social development, and emotional resilience. A safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment supports every student's emotional and physical needs. The Primary and Secondary Student Councils give every child a voice and encourage leadership on important issues. The Health, Advisory and Physical Education (HAPE) curriculum teaches students how to look after their physical and emotional wellbeing. The Learning Support Department and Student Services Team include a social and emotional coach and an onsite school nurse, ensuring students are healthy, well, and content. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) team provides support for students who need extra help with English.
The Learning Support Programme provides the academic, behavioural, and social development assistance our students need to thrive. Students who may need academic, behavioural, or learning support are referred to our Student Services Team (SST), which includes the Head of Learning Support, the Principal, teachers, and parents, to assess needs and set goals. Our Learning Support Programme will improve student outcomes by developing the academic, emotional, social, and behavioural skills each student needs to succeed now and in the future. It provides support in the classroom and/or one-to-one, focusing on each student's strengths by personalising learning and modifying the curriculum. It fosters appreciation, acceptance, and respect for individuality, diversity, and each student's preferred learning style. It builds confidence, resilience, and a belief in the student's ability to succeed, supports development of friendships and important social skills, and creates a supportive, caring, and safe environment.
NAISR offers additional English language support to students from Year 1 to Year 11. EAL support is provided at no extra cost. Our expert EAL team create carefully planned strategies that ensure every child learns in a way that works for them. Our EAL programme supports students' linguistic, cultural, social, and emotional transition, while providing the appropriate scaffolding to help them succeed in and beyond the classroom. EAL teachers typically work alongside the student's teachers in the classroom, with direct one-to-one sessions possible when needed. EAL students are made to feel proud of their culture and native language, and their bilingual ability is viewed as an asset.
The wellbeing programme centers on physical health, social development, and emotional resilience. A safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment supports students' mental wellbeing. The Health, Advisory and Physical Education (HAPE) curriculum teaches students how to manage their emotional wellbeing as part of overall health. The Learning Support Department includes a social and emotional coach and an onsite school nurse to support mental wellbeing. The school's EAL team helps students transition emotionally as they acquire English.
Rigorous background screening is performed for staff. Criminal record checks are conducted. A comprehensive safeguarding policy keeps students safe at school.
1. Make an Enquiry
Begin by filling out the online enquiry form. The admissions team usually responds within 24 hours to verify available spots, as the school accepts students year-round based on capacity. This is the time to ask initial questions about your child's specific situation.
2. Take a Tour of the Campus
You can schedule an in-person visit to view the facilities if you are in Rotterdam. For families relocating from abroad, the school offers personalized virtual meetings or online open days so you can explore the campus remotely.
3. Submit the Application and Documents
Complete the online application and upload the required documents, including your child's passport and English-translated school reports (two years for Years 1-12; three years for Year 13). The admissions team will contact your child's current teacher directly for a recommendation form.
4. Complete the Interview and Assessment
The school will schedule a brief interview with you and your child, either on-campus or via video call. Depending on age, language proficiency, and academic background, your child may also need to take a test to ensure the school can meet their learning needs.
5. Finalize the Placement Offer
If successful, the school will offer your child a place and confirm their year group. Placements are based on the child's age as of September 1st and their academic review. You finalize enrollment by accepting the offer and completing the registration paperwork.
6. Prepare for the First Day
The school will send materials to help you prepare for the transition. Students starting in August attend a new student induction day to meet teachers and classmates, while mid-year joiners receive direct guidance from staff to settle into their classes.
NAISR offers an Academic Scholarship Programme for students aged 15–18 (Years 11–13). Eligibility requires academic excellence, creativity and personal initiative, involvement in a range of extra‑curricular activities, and a strong regard from current school staff. Scholarships are awarded to top candidates who can meet the demands of the curriculum and contribute to school life, with recipients required to maintain high achievement and engagement. To apply: download the scholarship application form, write a 400‑word motivation letter addressed to the Director and the Director of Admissions and Marketing, and collect school reports from the past three years; deadlines are 15 April for internal candidates and 1 November or 15 April for prospective/ external candidates; email all materials to scholarships@naisr.nl. After submission, you'll receive an automatic acknowledgement; the academic team reviews documents and references, with internal reviews in April/May and external reviews in November (for a January start) and in April/May (for an August start); the top five finalists are invited to an interview and outcomes are communicated within three working days. If successful, the admissions team guides you through the remaining steps. Documentation is kept for up to 12 months in compliance with GDPR. A downloadable Scholarship Form is available on the page.
Discusworp 65, 6225 XP Maastricht, The Netherlands. The campus is located near Maastricht city centre. It comprises five buildings: one Primary School, one Secondary School, and three residence buildings. The campus includes a garden used as a living classroom and spaces such as an Atrium, music rooms, laboratories, a gym, a library and a drama room.
Ages 4-19 (Kindergarten through Secondary). The Secondary School offers the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), the IB Diploma Programme (DP) and the IB Career-related Programme (CP).
International day and residential school
100+ nationalities represented.
English language support is available; ELL (English Language Learning) is provided for students who are at beginner to intermediate level in English; language acquisition programmes accompany Dutch and English language learning.
The Netherlands
The secondary school day runs from 08:10 to 15:15 with the first period starting at 08:10 and the seventh period ending at 15:15; breaks occur between periods (e.g., a Break from 10:05 to 10:25; lunch during Period 4 and 5). The secondary building opens at 07:45; after-school activities and clubs run until 17:00, with day students allowed on campus for meals and study after school.
Boarding is available for residential DP and CP students. Students live in modern residences with international roommates and receive support from residential mentors. Boarding includes full board with meals served in the Mensa. During school breaks, students may travel or stay with a host family if they do not return home.
The school does not have a uniform.
Boarding includes full board with meals served in the Mensa. Day students may bring food or buy lunch on campus, with vending machines, lunch vouchers for the Mensa, and a weekly food truck.
UWC Maastricht is a cooperative foundation governed by three member organizations: Stichting Mosa Lira (primary education), Stichting LVO (secondary education), and Stichting UWC Nederland (overseeing residential). The cooperative is governed by an Algemene Ledenvergadering (General Members Meeting) and the operational governance is delegated to the School Board, which works with the Head of College to set the school's direction.
The Diploma Programme at UWC Maastricht is designed for students aged 16 to 19 and is an assessed programme respected by leading universities across the globe. Academic areas include Studies in Language and Literature (World Literature) with English, Dutch, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Arabic and self-taught language options; Language Acquisition (foreign language learning) with English, Dutch (including Dutch for beginners), German for beginners, French, French for beginners, Spanish, Spanish for beginners; Individuals and Societies (Economics, Environmental Systems and Societies, Geography, History, Global Politics, World Arts and Cultures); Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Design Technology); Mathematics (Mathematics Analysis and Approaches, Mathematics Applications and Interpretation); The Arts (Visual Arts, Music or Film). Students complete three core elements: Theory of Knowledge (TOK); The Extended Essay (EE); Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS). The language of instruction is English across the programme.
DP candidates (2021–2025): 140 total; DP Diploma recipients: 135. Average DP score: Maastricht 33; World 30.5. Score distribution (2021–2025): 40–45 points: 20 students; 35–39: 49; 30–34: 56; 24–29: 41. University destinations (DP 2021–2025): 56 United States; 32 The Netherlands; 12 Europe (excl. NL); 6 United Kingdom; 7 Canada. Since 2022, UWC Maastricht has offered the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP); CP Class of 2025: 6 candidates passed (100%).
Most UWC Maastricht graduates continue to undergraduate studies at colleges and universities around the world, often with significant scholarships or financial aid. University destinations (2021–2025): 56 United States; 32 The Netherlands; 12 Europe (excl. NL); 6 United Kingdom; 7 Canada.
1. UWC Maastricht provides an English-language education to a diverse group of students from over 100 national identities. The school offers Primary (4–11 years), Middle Years Programme (11–16 years), and Diploma Programme or Career-related Programme (16–19 years), with around 300 students in each program. The campus accommodates both residential on-campus living for DP/CP students and day-student arrangements for others.
2. Day Students begin the admissions process by submitting an application via the online portal and paying the non-refundable €790 application fee per student. You will receive instructions for payment after you submit your application. The application is managed through the online system.
3. Review: The review process begins once all required materials are received. The review typically takes around four weeks, provided no additional documents are needed. If additional documents are required, the timeline may be extended.
4. Priority for admission is given to several groups. Current students re-enrolling receive priority. Siblings of current UWC Maastricht students with completed applications submitted by 1 April for the upcoming school year also receive priority. Eligible children of UWC Maastricht staff and students supported by stakeholders' financial guarantees are prioritized. Internationally mobile families whose children lack local educational options due to language or residency are also considered.
5. Residential option: For the Diploma Programme and Career-related Programme, residential students who live on campus are welcome. If applying as a residential student, inquiries can be directed through the admissions process or via the appropriate national channels.
6.
Scholarships are available as part of UWC Maastricht's participation in the United World Colleges movement. Residential Programme scholarships exist, and information about scholarship opportunities and eligibility is managed through UWC National Committees or the UWC International Office. For details, inquire through your National Committee or the UWC International Office. Scholarships are referenced in the Fees section and noted as available for eligible students.
Three campuses in Haarlem: Lower Primary at Buitenrustlaan 9; Upper Primary at Schreveliusstraat 27; MYP 1-5 and DP 1 at Junoplantsoen 58. All campuses are located in Haarlem, The Netherlands.
Lower Primary (Groups 1-3, ages 4-6); Upper Primary (Groups 4-7, ages 6-11); MYP 1-5 and DP 1 (ages 11-18).
Day IB World School offering the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-related Programme (CP), and Diploma Programme (DP) in Secondary.
Over 50 nationalities represented; over 35 languages spoken; English is the working language.
Inclusive, personalised approach with support for diverse learning needs, including those with learning difficulties, disabilities or medical needs. A learning support structure with in-class support, 1-to-1 and small group interventions, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support; resources and ICT to enhance curriculum accessibility.
To allow travel between sites, start and end times are staggered by campus. Lower Primary (Buitenrustlaan): doors open 08:05, lessons begin 08:15, 10:15-10:30 break, 11:45-12:45 lunch, dismissal 14:30 (12:15 on Wednesdays). Upper Primary (Schreveliusstraat): doors open 08:25, lessons begin 08:30, 10:30-10:45 break, 11:45-12:45 lunch, dismissal 14:45 (12:30 on Wednesdays). MYP 1-5 and DP 1-2: doors open 08:45, registration 08:50, 11:00-11:20 break, 13:20-13:50 lunch, dismissal 15:50 (MYP) and 17:00 (DP) with occasional clubs 16:00-17:00; Wednesdays have earlier dismissal times (MYP 13:20; DP around 14:20).
The school does not have a uniform; students do not wear a school uniform.
The school does not operate a canteen. All students have snack and lunch at school. In Primary, parents can sign up for a paid warm lunch provided by Tommy Tomato.
The school is a Dutch subsidised international school established by TWijs and IRIS, supported by the City Council in Haarlem; it is governed by the TWijs and IRIS boards and is a member of the Dutch International Schools (DIS) group.
International School Haarlem offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-Related Programme (CP), and Diploma Programme (DP) in Secondary. The school is authorized as an IB World School.
The Next Steps Programme guides students after MYP5. In DP1 and DP2, academic counsellors support university applications, including arranging Go-Abroad Fair visits in Utrecht and providing information on university Open Days, transcripts, reference letters, and predicted grades.
Inclusivity is provided through Learning Support. The school supports English as an Additional Language, and students who are working at a significantly higher level than age-related expectations, or identified as gifted, may be placed on the Learning Support Register with a tailored plan.
International School Haarlem is an inclusive school with a personalised approach to the diverse learning needs of students, including those with learning difficulties, disabilities or medical needs. A clear and responsive support structure exists where teachers, tutors and Student Support staff work together to identify and remove barriers to learning. Support provision is planned and regularly reviewed, taking into account the views of the individual student and their parents/guardians. The safeguarding team handles social‑emotional concerns for the school. The safeguarding team for social‑emotional concerns includes Janine Ric‑Hansen, Clare Peterkin, Hannah Mansbridge and Mirjam van den Berg.
International School Haarlem operates as a mainstream school with a personalised approach to learning diversity. Admission depends on the applicant's needs and the school's ability to meet them within a mainstream setting and to enable benefit from the MYP curriculum. Learning Support includes 1‑to‑1 and small group targeted interventions, resources and ICT to support curriculum accessibility, and in‑class support by skilled support assistants. Primary Inclusion focuses on enabling all children to achieve academically, emotionally and socially through high‑quality teaching, differentiation, strategies to support neurodiversity, and access to appropriate resources. English as an Additional Language is supported with small group EAL lessons taught by a specialised EAL teacher, access to texts and vocabulary prior to lessons, and resources to support curriculum accessibility.
English as an Additional Language is valued and teachers are skilled in welcoming and supporting students who are new to English. Students who are new to English or developing academic English receive support in small group EAL lessons with a specialised EAL teacher, have access to texts and vocabulary prior to lessons, and benefit from resources to support curriculum accessibility in the classroom.
Wellbeing is addressed through a focus on promoting positive self‑esteem and enjoyment of learning. A safeguarding team is available to support social‑emotional concerns. Staff responsibilities include creating a safe and respectful learning environment and supporting student wellbeing. The school provides digital safeguarding guidelines and codes of conduct for ICT use, with guidance for both students and parents. Safeguarding policies include reporting procedures for safeguarding concerns, including cases of domestic violence and child abuse.
The Wellbeing and Safeguarding Protocol establishes Codes of Conduct to safeguard against discrimination, sexual harassment and violence. A safeguarding team handles social‑emotional concerns and is responsible for safeguarding procedures. Digital safeguarding is addressed through an ICT code of conduct for students (and a signed agreement for parents), with disciplinary actions for breaches. The protocol provides reporting steps for suspected abuse and mandates reporting to authorities when required. Personal data handling follows GDPR guidance, with data access limited to what is legally required and necessary for safeguarding and education. Volunteers and staff are subject to background checks, including Certificates of Good Conduct (VOG) where applicable.
International School Haarlem offers primary and secondary education in an English-speaking environment and welcomes applications from students worldwide who need international education. Admission follows national regulations for the Dutch International School. A student is admitted if they meet at least one of these conditions: the student has a non-Dutch nationality and a parent working in the Netherlands for a limited time; the student has Dutch nationality and has attended an international school abroad for at least two years because a parent was stationed abroad; or Dutch nationality and a parent who will be stationed abroad within two years of admission for at least two years, confirmed in writing by the employer. Prospective families submit a pre-application via Open Apply; completing the pre-application is required before requesting a school visit. For 2025-2026, there are no spaces left in MYP and DP; there are some spaces in Primary. The school will respond within 10 working days if eligible for admission, and a start date and visit can be arranged. A school visit can be scheduled once the application is complete and the registration fee has been paid; visits are on Tuesday 9:00-11:00 (Primary and MYP1-5), Thursday 9:00-11:00 (Primary and MYP 1-5), and Friday 12:20-13:20 (CP/DP). School visits are available throughout the year, with a 2–3 week waiting time to book a visit. Phone bookings are not accepted. The school offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-Related Programme (CP) and Diploma Programme (DP) in secondary, and is IB World School authorized.
The AICS operates two campuses in Amsterdam: South Campus at Arent Janszoon Ernststraat 1179, 1081 HL, Amsterdam, and Sandcastle (SE) Campus at Bijlmerplein 1000, 1102 MK Amsterdam. The two campuses form one Dutch international school, served by one team; the curriculum, school values and philosophy are the same across campuses. The Amsterdam International Community School offers international education in English.
Primary and Secondary
The Amsterdam International Community School is a co-educational day school. It does not offer boarding facilities for any age groups, as it is designed to support international and local families residing in the Netherlands.
The school serves students of all nationalities living in The Netherlands; international student body.
In-class student support led by teachers and mentors to meet diverse student needs.
The Netherlands (Dutch international school).
Primary day: Arrival 08:10; Registration and lessons start at 08:30; Story time and snack – 15 minutes; Morning break 30 minutes; Lunch break 30 minutes; Play time 30 minutes; End of day 15:15 (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri); 12:00 (Wed). Secondary timetable varies; all lessons on Thursdays start at 11:00; DP timetables differ by subject; students may be required to start at 10:15.
The school offers a dedicated shuttle service to assist families with the daily commute to and from the South Campus. This service is operated by an external partner, Atlas Shuttle. Parents can contact the provider directly via phone or email to inquire about routes and arrange transportation for their children.
Partly state funded by the Dutch government. All Dutch International Schools are connected to a Dutch school board. The AICS was founded by and is part of the Esprit Scholen Group and is also part of the DIS (Dutch International Schools).
The Primary Years Programme (PYP) has been implemented for students aged 4–11. It is a transdisciplinary, inquiry-based framework in which traditional subjects are taught in multi- or interdisciplinary units around six transdisciplinary themes: Who we are; Where we are in place and time; How we express ourselves; How the world works; How we organize ourselves; Sharing the planet. The PYP provides horizontal alignment across both campuses and vertical articulation with the Secondary School. The school has strengthened the arts in Primary and publishes the Programme of Inquiry for 2025/26. The Fireflies Programme supports learners with complex learning profiles, with differentiated curriculum and collaboration with Stichting Kolom and the samenwerkingsverband to support development of the programme and aligning Primary and Secondary. Specialist lessons include English Language Acquisition, Dutch Language Acquisition, Dutch Language and Literature, Physical & Health Education, and Performing Arts. Outdoor learning is part of the curriculum. AICS is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme.
Secondary School exam results (DP/CP): 2024–2025: DP pass rate 93% (133/143); CP pass rate 90% (18/20); All CP students will also receive their BTEC diplomas; highest DP score 43. 2023–2024: DP/CP pass rate 93%; one student achieved a DP high score of 45; CP students received BTEC diplomas. 2022–2023: DP pass rate 96% (87/91).
Graduates go on to universities in the Netherlands and internationally, including Leiden University (School of Law), University of Amsterdam, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Maastricht University, TU Delft (Architecture and Aerospace Engineering), Open University, and international institutions such as Parsons the New School for Design, Florida International University, University of Miami, University of Massachusetts Amherst, and University of Virginia School of Architecture.
Wellbeing and academic achievement are linked; a holistic approach nurtures students' emotional, social, and academic growth. The Wellbeing Programme comprises Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), the KIVA anti-bullying programme, the Common Sense Digital Citizenship Programme, and the Community Safety Agreement (CSA) developed with staff, students and parents. The AICS Wellbeing framework emphasises student agency, parent school child partnership and a sense of belonging, supporting wellbeing and learning. Members of the safeguarding team include Lyndsay Gregory, Child Protection and Safeguarding Lead; Niké Yonkio, Primary Sandcastle Campus; and Sanne Zaadnoordijk, Primary South Campus. The Multisignal system connects professionals involved with a student to coordinate support and resolve issues quickly.
The AICS uses an inclusive approach to learning and accepts students of average to above average ability, including those with English as an additional language and learners with learning diversity. Extra assistance is provided for a limited number of students. Speech and Language Team and Occupational Therapist services are available, and these services must be covered by health insurance. If capacity is reached, families may be placed on a waiting list until full support can be provided.
The main language of instruction is English. English Language Acquisition support is provided for students learning English as a emerging language, including an extended English Language Acquisition Programme (ELAX). The school also recognises English Best Language and Language Acquisition as part of its language provision and supports developing Dutch as a best language as part of its Dutch international school framework.
Wellbeing is central to the school approach; a holistic wellbeing programme supports emotional and social development and links to academic growth. It emphasizes student agency, a parent school child partnership, and a sense of belonging. The programme includes CSE, the KIVA anti-bullying programme, the Common Sense Digital Citizenship Programme, and the Community Safety Agreement to support mental wellbeing and safe online behaviour.
Safeguarding is led by a safeguarding team with Lyndsay Gregory as Child Protection and Safeguarding Lead (Secondary), Niké Yonkio (Primary Sandcastle Campus) and Sanne Zaadnoordijk (Primary South Campus). The school uses MULTISignal to coordinate professionals involved with a student, ensuring a coherent plan. A Community Safety Agreement and other safeguarding measures underpin the protective framework.
1. Verify Eligibility and Availability
First, check the school's Open Apply page to see current availability for new students. You must also review the specific entry criteria to ensure your child qualifies, as the school primarily caters to students spending a temporary period in the Netherlands or returning Dutch students.
2. Gather Required Documentation
Before applying, prepare mandatory documents including valid passport copies, a digital photograph, and school reports from the previous two years provided in English. Families must also upload a BRP document from their local municipality and proof of temporary residence or a statement of intent to relocate.
3. Submit Application and Registration Fee
Submit your formal application through the school's online portal. To complete the submission and secure your place in the processing queue, you are required to pay a non-refundable registration fee.
4. Await Processing and Placement
For mid-term starts where a place is available, the process takes a minimum of two weeks. For the upcoming academic year, place allocations begin in May, with the Head of Campus determining final grade placements primarily based on the student's age.
Wijndaelerweg 11, 2554 BZ Den Haag, The Netherlands. The postal address is The International School of The Hague, P.O. Box 52047, 2505 CA The Hague, The Netherlands. The visiting address is Wijndaelerweg 11, 2554 BZ Den Haag, The Netherlands.
Early Years, Primary and Secondary.
Private international day school.
Over 100 nationalities represented.
Learning Support is provided in Primary and Secondary; English as an Additional Language (EAL) is offered.
The Netherlands.
The Early Years day starts at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m. The day includes morning carpet time, free-flow play, snack, specialist lessons (PE, Music, Library), lunch and outdoor time, followed by a second carpet time and story time.
Door-to-door bus service is provided by Achttax; routes cover Den Haag, Voorburg, Leidschendam, Ypenburg, Scheveningen, Rijswijk, Zoetermeer and Voorschoten. In Primary, staff supervise students during the bus journey; inquiries can be made via planning@achttax.nl.
No boarding facilities.
Students do not wear a uniform.
Secondary students have an on-site cafeteria. Primary students must bring their own packed lunch.
ISH is part of the Rijnlands Lyceum Foundation, an educational organisation for primary and secondary education in The Hague and Leiden area. Eight Rijnlands Lyceum Foundation schools offer national and international programmes and are overseen by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Rijnlands, Arjan Kastelein; ISH operates as a partially subsidised school, with support from the Ministry of Education and in accordance with Dutch rules for Primary & Secondary education. Each Principal has a leadership team and the administration for both sections is under the supervision of the Senior Leadership Team, and the school has over 350 staff serving about 2,000 students.
The ISH Primary Curriculum is IPC-based and centers on inquiry-based learning across age groups. The Curriculum includes Language Art, Mathematics, Units of Inquiry, Social and Emotional Learning, Physical Education, Information and Communication Technology, Music, Dutch, Art and Drama. Early Years uses a Reggio Emilia and Montessori-inspired approach with free-flow, child-centered learning and a transition into IPC; EY1 begins IPC content as students move into Primary Years. The school supports multilingual learners through English as an Additional Language (EAL) and a Home Language program, and over 80% of students are multilingual. In Secondary, ISH offers the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Years 7–11, and the IB Diploma Programme (DP) or Career-related Programme (CP) for Years 12–13; the DP and CP include subject groups and core components with a focus on preparing for higher education; in DP, students can study their home language as part of the IBDP, including SSST Language A. The Home Languages at ISH Secondary program supports home language development and allows continuation of home languages in DP.
Group sizes are capped at 23 pupils per class.
The Diploma Programme (DP) is a rigorous two-year pathway designed to prepare students for higher education. The Career-related Programme (CP) provides a university- and employment-oriented route in the final years. ISH provides Careers Guidance and information for University Representatives to support university applications, and DP/CP are offered as the primary routes for post-secondary study. The DP and CP are supported by the school's IB framework and university-preparation resources. Home languages can be continued in the IBDP via SSST Language A, extending language study into the final years.
The school prioritises physical, social and emotional wellbeing as essential to personal excellence. It nurtures wellbeing through a restorative approach to behaviour that emphasises relationships, accountability for actions and empathy. Through its programmes students learn that taking care of their own wellbeing supports learning and future success. The Student Charter protects a student's right to be treated with respect and to have wellbeing and personal safety supported. The Learning Support and Student Wellbeing teams collaborate to address social-emotional development, including restorative practices such as connection circles and social-emotional interventions. The school also supports wellbeing through Anti Bullying initiatives and the Health Office.
The school uses a graduated, multi-tiered approach to Learning Support to remove barriers to progress. A dedicated Learning Support Team provides ongoing review and develops individual learning plans. Services cover academic, social-emotional and health supports, including executive functioning, study skills and literacy and numeracy interventions. There are in-class supports, parallel teaching and specialised workshops. The department collaborates with the Student Wellbeing and EAL teams to support academics, behaviour and social-emotional development. ISH embraces inclusion and aims for universal access to the curriculum. All residents in the Netherlands have the right to appropriate education and ISH operates a three-tiered intervention model. It is noted that ISH offers support for a range of needs, including dyslexia, ASD and ADHD, and ISH is not a dedicated SEN school.
Two main EAL programmes operate within ISH. The Academic Language Programme (ALP) for Years 7-9 provides three extra English lessons per week focused on academic language. The Individual Learning Programme (ILP) for Years 10-13 offers additional language support when ALP is not offered. EAL accommodations for MYP phases include 25% extra time in assignments and access to dictionaries for some tasks. The EAL team includes Maria Ferraiuelo, Marta Galinska, Hanna Harmander (EAL Coordinator) and Julia Strohpagel, with contact through h.harmander@ishthehague.nl. The EAL department implements a whole-school language acquisition programme to enhance student learning and wellbeing.
Mental wellbeing is integrated into ISH's wellbeing framework. The school recognises that students achieve personal excellence only if their physical, social and emotional wellbeing is supported and uses a restorative approach to emphasise relationships and empathy. The programmes help students understand how wellbeing supports their learning and future success, and the Student Charter reinforces the right to respectful treatment and personal safety. The Health Office and anti-bullying initiatives contribute to a safe, healthy environment for students. Learning Support and EAL provisions address social-emotional development and resilience as part of the holistic approach to education.
Safeguarding and child protection are a priority at ISH. The school states that every child has the right to develop physically, mentally and socially in a safe and secure environment. Staff have a responsibility to foster a safe, caring and supportive environment inside and outside the classroom. ISH follows up on any allegations or signs of abuse or neglect and may involve local or international law enforcement and Dutch child protection bodies. The welfare of children is the prime consideration in any response, and safeguarding measures include rigorous safe recruitment practices aligned with the International Task Force on Child Protection. The Safeguarding Policy is developed within the context of Rijnlands Lyceum regulations, national and international law and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Designated Safeguarding Leads include dsl@ishthehague.nl, with designated staff for Primary and Secondary and a safeguarding team.
