Newcomers’ classes in the Netherlands
Imagine moving to the Netherlands with your family and your children don’t speak Dutch. Naturally, you want them to integrate into the local school system as quickly as possible. But without speaking the language, that can be quite a challenge. That’s why the Netherlands offers special classes for foreign children called newcomers classes (nieuwkomersklassen). These are temporary classes — or in some cases, entire schools (nieuwkomersscholen) — designed to help children adapt to the Dutch education system and, most importantly, learn the language before joining regular Dutch school.
Age groups
Usually, newcomers’ classes in the Netherlands are divided by the following age groups:
- Primary school (ages 6–12): Children under 6 y.o. can usually join a regular class, as it’s believed that young children can naturally pick up the language simply by the immersion in the environment. However, in some cities and municipalities, adaptation classes are recommended or even required from the age of 4. Typically, children join newcomers or transition classes (schakelklassen or nieuwkomersklassen) from age 6 onward.
- Secondary school (ages 12–18): Older children attend international bridging classes (ISK – Internationale Schakelklassen), where they also receive extra language support alongside other academic subjects.
A key benefit of the system is its personalized approach — each child receives support tailored to their age, educational background, and individual needs, making it easier for them to smoothly transition into the regular school system.
How long do children stay in a newcomers’ class?
The length of time a child spends in a newcomers’ class can vary, but on average it ranges from one year to a year and a half. This depends on several factors:
- Initial Dutch language proficiency
- Adjustment speed
- Academic progress
- Social development
Each child’s integration is handled individually. They move into a regular class only when their teacher believes they are ready to continue learning in a regular Dutch school setting.
What do children learn in these classes?
The primary goal of newcomers’ classes is to teach the Dutch language. The curriculum focuses on:
- Developing speaking and listening skills
- Understanding written and spoken language
- Expanding vocabulary
In addition to language learning, children are also taught key academic subjects such as:
- Mathematics
- Science
- Physical education
- Creative subjects like art or music
“Will my child lose a year”?
Many parents worry that time spent in a newcomers class means their child is “losing a year” or falling behind their peers. But there’s no need for concern. Yes, your child will spend time learning the language and adjusting to the new environment — but this is a valuable investment in their future, not a setback.
The biggest benefit of these classes is the support system they offer, helping children not only learn the language but also adjust to the Dutch school environment. By the time they complete the program, most children are not only academically prepared but also socially confident in their new surroundings.
Also, many schools create individual learning plans to help students “catch up” and transition smoothly into the regular curriculum.
A kick start in a new country
To sum things up, newcomers’ classes are a fantastic resource for families moving to the Netherlands who want their children to attend local schools. They help kids effectively acquire the language, adapt to a new education system, and build the confidence needed for a successful transition into mainstream classes.
So if your child doesn’t speak Dutch, don’t worry — a newcomers class will help them take that all-important first step toward a successful education and life in the Netherlands.