In the Netherlands, almost all children go to primary school. Primary education is the first stage of the Dutch school system.
Primary education is education at school for children aged 4 to 12. Children learn reading, writing and arithmetic, and how to work together. Primary school prepares children for secondary school (secondary education).
Primary school covers eight years: from year 1 to year 8. Children usually start in year 1 when they are 4 years old.
Most primary schools provide three school reports on each child every year. Each school has its own way of writing reports. A school can give a grade for each subject, or it can describe in words how a child is doing in school. Children take a final test in year 8 to help their primary school work out which type of secondary school each child should go to next.
In the Netherlands, children can start primary school at the age of 4. This allows children to get used to the classroom, their teacher and the school rules before they have to start school. School is compulsory from the age of 5. Most children stay in primary school until they are 12 years old. They then start secondary school.
In the Netherlands, children go to kindergarten when they start primary school. Children aged 4 and 5 are in years 1 and 2. They learn mainly by playing and being with other children. That is why kindergarten is now part of primary school.
Primary education is free, but schools may ask for a voluntary parental contribution to fund additional activities, such as school trips or sports days. You do not have to pay this if you are unable to. Your child can still take part in the activities.
Yes. If your child is aged 5 or over, your child must go to primary school. It does not matter if your child cannot speak Dutch yet. If your child has not yet reached the age of 5, school is not compulsory.
You can register your child for primary school by contacting a primary school in your area. In many cases, you can do this by filling in a form on the school’s website or by making an appointment with the school. Bring a valid identity document for your child and your address details with you.
Many primary schools have special classes for children who do not speak Dutch yet. Your child might start in a special language class or transition class. In these classes, children learn Dutch quickly so they can take part in normal lessons.
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