Compulsory education under Dutch law applies to children of all nationalities from five to eighteen years that are residing in The Netherlands. The school system is, however, quite unusual.

Choosing a school
There's a commitment to educational choice in the Netherlands. Schools following particular religious or pedagogic principles have equal state funding to public schools (and have done so since 1917) and there are now twice as many privately run as publicly run schools. International education is available at both Dutch and private schools throughout the country.

Local or international?
Your finances, location, nationality, the age of your children, and how long you are likely to be staying in the Netherlands are the key factors in selecting a school. Many companies reimburse international school fees as part of a relocation package and the reimbursements could be exempt from income tax (though not for all schools).

While teenagers might appreciate the educational and social continuity provided by an international school, younger children might get a greater sense of belonging by going to a local school. By learning good Dutch they will connect to their new world more easily. You certainly won't be the only non-Dutch parent in the playground.  

In the Pisa/OECD international rankings for 15-year olds in 56 countries (published in December 2007), the Netherlands was “above average” for both Mathematics (5th) and Reading (10th).
(See Expatica article 'Dutch life is good for your children'.)

Applying for a school
Register your child directly at the school of your choice. Technically, schools are not allowed to refuse admission. Popular schools, however, have waiting lists (you can register from the age of 3) and the municipality can assign catchment areas based on postcodes. All schools have brochures and websites on which they announce ‘open days’ when you can visit the school.

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