There are schools or separate classes in the Netherlands that teach newcomers in particular. The options are:
- International schools. Click here for more information about International school.
- Language schools /new comers school. These schools are mainly meant for students who wants to go to a Dutch school and are older than 7 -8 years old. The aim is for students to be transferred to mainstream education after a period in the newcomer class.
- In primary education, these schools are often called 'newcomer schools' or 'language schools.'
- In secondary education, schools for newcomers are called 'international transition classes,' abbreviated to 'ISK.'
- Language classes/bridging classes. This are regular Dutch schools which offers extra Dutch lessons (NT2 / Taalklas).
- Regular schools without a language class, but which can provide sufficient guidance to a newcomer.
The last two options are not mentioned on the Lowan website. The advise is to contact the schools in your area and see what is their advice and what they think what's best for your child.
LOWAN (Landelijk Onderwijs Aan Nieuwkomers or National Education for Newcomers) focuses on supporting newcomers in the Dutch education system. You can search for a school with a newcomer program through the LOWAN database. Newcomer classes are usually organized in a regular school, but in some cases, there is even a separate school for newcomers.
Even if a school is not in the LOWAN database, it can often still provide support for newcomers. We therefore recommend seeking information from the school of your choice.
Newcomer classes aim to provide intensive language support. Pupils not only learn the Dutch language but are also taught other subjects. In addition, newcomer classes focus on teaching Dutch culture and society so pupils can integrate better. The aim is for pupils to be transferred to mainstream education after a period in the newcomer class once they have developed sufficient language skills to participate in mainstream classes.
