Nederlands
Money matters
Answer
Do you live in the Netherlands with your children? Then it’s important to understand the school system. Children go to primary school from group 1 to group 8. After that, they go to secundary education: vmbo, havo, or vwo.
Children may start school at age 4, and from age 5 it is mandatory. Are you moving here? Register your child at a local school as soon as possible. If your child doesn’t speak Dutch yet, they often start in a language class.
Education is free, but there are extra costs such as school trips, childcare, or transport. Sometimes you can apply for allowances, depending on your income and residence status.
Another difference compared to many countries is that Dutch education focuses on learning through play and cooperation. No uniforms, but plenty of room for personal input.
Do you have questions about school or need help registering your child? You can visit Information Point Zuidoost-Brabant at the Inwonersplein in Eindhoven city hall.