The Hague

Overview of Primary Education in The Hague

Primary education in The Hague typically caters to children aged 4 to 12 years and is divided into two main stages: onderbouw (lower grades, ages 4-6) and bovenbouw (upper grades, ages 6-12). The education system is known for its high standards and emphasis on inclusivity.

Types of Schools

1. Public Schools (Openbare Scholen):

   • Funded by the government and free of charge.
   • Open to all children, regardless of their background or beliefs.
   • Curriculum is based on the Dutch national education standards.

2. Special Schools (Bijzondere Scholen):

   • These include religious schools (e.g., Catholic, Protestant) and schools with specific educational philosophies (e.g., Montessori, Dalton).
   • Also free of charge, but may have specific admission criteria based on religious or educational philosophy.

3. International Schools:

   • Cater to expatriates and offer curricula in English or other languages (e.g., International Baccalaureate).
   • Tuition fees apply, which can be significant (ranging from €5,000 to €20,000 per year).
   • Examples include the International School of The Hague and the British School in The Netherlands.

4. Special Needs Schools:

   • For children with specific educational needs, these schools provide tailored support and resources.

Enrollment Procedures

1. Registration:

   • Parents must register their child at the school of their choice. This can often be done online or in person.
   • It is advisable to register well in advance, especially for popular schools or international institutions.

2. Documents Required:

   • Birth certificate or passport.
   • Proof of residence in The Hague.
   • Previous school records (if applicable).

3. Language Considerations:

   • Most public and special schools teach in Dutch, while international schools offer instruction in English or other languages.
   • Some schools may offer language support for non-Dutch speakers.

Costs

• Public and Special Schools: Free of charge, but parents may need to cover costs for school supplies, extracurricular activities, and school trips.
• International Schools: Tuition fees can vary widely, typically ranging from €5,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the institution and the curriculum offered.

Curriculum Details

• The Dutch primary education curriculum focuses on core subjects such as:
  • Dutch language and literature
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social studies
  • Arts and crafts
  • Physical education
• Schools also emphasize social skills, citizenship, and personal development.
• The curriculum is designed to prepare students for secondary education, with assessments conducted at the end of primary school.

Local Factors and Cultural Aspects

1. Cultural Diversity:

   • The Hague is a multicultural city, and schools often reflect this diversity. Many schools celebrate various cultural events and encourage inclusivity.

2. Parental Involvement:

   • Parents are encouraged to participate in school activities and maintain communication with teachers. Many schools have parent-teacher associations.

3. After-School Care:

   • Many schools offer after-school care (buitenschoolse opvang) for working parents, which may involve additional fees.

4. Transportation:

   • The Hague has a well-connected public transport system, making it easy for children to commute to school. Some schools may also provide transportation services.

5. Integration Programs:

   • For non-Dutch speaking children, many schools offer integration programs to help them adapt to the Dutch education system and language.

Conclusion

Choosing the right primary school in The Hague involves considering various factors, including the type of school, language of instruction, and the specific needs of your child. It’s advisable to visit schools, meet with teachers, and understand the school culture before making a decision. The Hague’s education system is designed to be inclusive and supportive, ensuring that children receive a well-rounded education.