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Netherlands, Rotterdam
Let the school know you're thinking of applying — they can share their prerequisites and help you through the process.
It's best to ask — circumstances can change at any time.
1. Initial Enquiry and Eligibility
Parents must confirm they meet the eligibility criteria of having a non-Dutch nationality and a temporary stay in the Netherlands. You then submit an admission enquiry form detailing your child's date of birth, arrival date, and any support needs. Accurate birth dates are essential, as the school places children strictly by age rather than academic level.
2. Application Review
The school reviews applications within six weeks, though they may extend this by up to four weeks in rare cases. The admissions team evaluates any submitted school reports, learning support evaluations, and EAL assessments. For preschool-aged children without prior school records, parents will be asked to complete alternative intake forms.
3. The Intake Visit
Because the school does not host general open days, prospective families are invited for an individual intake visit. This informal meeting allows staff to explain daily routines and guide you through the classrooms. It also provides an opportunity for the staff to interact with your child and help them become familiar with the new environment.
4. Securing the Placement
Once the school confirms space in the appropriate age group, you must pay a one-time, non-refundable application fee to reserve the spot. The standard annual school fees are not due until your child officially starts attending classes. If the required age group is at capacity, your child will be placed on a waiting list.
5. Final Document Submission
To finalize enrollment, you must submit a copy of your child’s passport showing their full name and date of birth. You are also required to provide proof of your temporary status in the Netherlands, such as an employment contract or a letter from your employer. Finally, a recommendation form from your child's previous school must be submitted if they are of school age.
All new applications are automatically placed on a waiting list; the admissions officer informs applicants of their waiting-list position.
Harbour International Primary School sits in the heart of Rotterdam, offering an English-taught IPC-based program for ages 4 to 11. The curriculum blends the International Primary Curriculum with elements of the British curriculum, and literacy and numeracy are taught alongside IPC subjects, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for pupils who need it. The school serves a diverse community representing 69 nationalities, with around 280 pupils and small class sizes averaging 18. Dutch culture is woven into learning through All about the Netherlands activities, and the school is nut-free with snacks and lunches eaten in classrooms. The library is run by parent volunteers; there is a dedicated technology program and specialist music provision. A qualified gym teacher delivers PE to all pupils; younger children have PE on site, while older pupils walk to a local gym and Group 4–8 swim weekly. Co-curricular activities include coding, art, basketball, mindfulness, chess and music lessons; the Parents' Support Group coordinates volunteering and fundraising.
