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NKO (newcomer education)

You've indicated that your child does not speak Dutch (level A2). This page contains information about newcomer education. If you wish to read general information about secondary education please click the button below:

Secondary education

Schools in the Brainport region

NKO (nieuwkomersonderwijs) General information

In the Netherlands, there are various options for your children to receive education.
If you plan to stay in the Netherlands for less than 3 years, you can enroll your child in an international school.

If you intend to stay in the Netherlands for more than 3 years, we recommend enrolling your child(ren) in a regular Dutch school near your home.

Depending on your child’s age and level of Dutch, an appropriate, additional placement will be determined.

  • If your child is younger than 4 years old, they may attend childcare.
  • If your child is between 4 and 12 years old, they will attend primary education.
  • If your child is older than 12, they will attend secondary education.

Our advice is to contact schools in your area to ask for their recommendation and what they believe is best for your child.

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As a teacher at RISE, I’d be happy to tell you more about the different ways to integrate into the Dutch education system, particularly in relation to the Dutch language

The EOA/ISK in Secondary Education

The EOA (First Reception for Non-Dutch Speakers) or ISK (International Transition Class) is a form of education for non-Dutch-speaking young people aged 12 to 18. These students come from various cultural backgrounds, have a different native language than Dutch, and do not yet have sufficient command of the Dutch language.

The EOA/ISK program offers an NT2 curriculum, which stands for Dutch as a second language. This program usually lasts two years, but the duration depends on the student’s progress in learning Dutch.

Within this program, students receive education in Dutch language and culture, as well as subjects such as mathematics, ICT, physical education, arts and culture, English, and citizenship. In the final phase, students are also prepared for regular secondary school subjects and are placed in different learning pathways.

After completing the EOA/ISK program, students receive a school recommendation and may transition to:

  • Regular secondary education (VMBO, HAVO, VWO)

  • MBO (secondary vocational education)

  • Higher education (HBO or university)

  • Or move on to (supported) employment

The school team determines the student’s next step and records this in an exit recommendation. The school also supports the student during this transition.

EOA/ISK Locations in the Brainport Region

  • PIUS X – For students aged 12 to 18 living in:
    Bergeijk, Bladel, Cranendonck, Eersel, Heeze-Leende, Oirschot, Reusel-De Mierden, Valkenswaard, Veldhoven, or Waalre

  • Stedelijk College – Global College – For students aged 12 to 16 living in:
    Eindhoven, Best, Nuenen, or Son en Breugel

  • Summa – VOAT – For students aged 15.5 to 18 living in:
    Eindhoven, Best, Nuenen, or Son en Breugel

  • Jan van Brabant College – Gasthuisstraat – For students aged 12 to 18 living in:
    Helmond, Deurne, Asten, Someren, Geldrop-Mierlo, Gemert-Bakel, or Laarbeek

Students can register through the websites of the relevant EOA/ISK. Contact details can be found on the respective websites.

Municipalities or other secondary schools in the Brainport region can also assist with the enrollment process.