Choosing a school for your child is a significant decision for any international family settling in the Netherlands. A recent report highlights how one international school group, Nord Anglia, collaborates with MIT and UNICEF to enrich its educational offer. While the article is promotional in nature, it points to a broader trend: international schools in the Netherlands are increasingly forming partnerships with globally recognised institutions to strengthen their curricula and extracurricular programmes.
For expat parents, such collaborations can signal a school's commitment to innovation and global citizenship. However, it is important to remember that partnerships alone do not guarantee quality. When evaluating schools, consider factors such as accreditation, class sizes, language support, and how well the school helps children integrate into the local community. If you are learning Dutch or new to the country, these partnerships may also indicate a school that values international perspectives, which can ease your family's transition.
What this means if you are learning Dutch or new in the Netherlands: While international schools often teach in English, some may offer Dutch language classes or cultural orientation. If your child attends such a school, you can still encourage Dutch learning outside the classroom through local activities and community events. For parents, understanding the school's approach to language and integration can help you make a more informed choice. Always visit schools in person and ask about their language support and integration policies before deciding.