Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that is home to a diverse and multicultural population. This diversity is reflected in the city’s educational institutions, particularly in its international schools. These schools offer a global curriculum, often in English, and cater to the needs of expatriate families and internationally-minded Dutch families. In this blog post, we will delve into the top five international schools in Amsterdam that you need to know about.
1. The British School of Amsterdam
About the School
The British School of Amsterdam, founded in 1978, is an independent co-educational day school that offers a British-style education to children of all nationalities aged between three and 18. The school is located in the heart of Amsterdam and is accredited by the UK Government’s Department for Education.
Curriculum
The school follows the English National Curriculum, with students taking GCSEs and A-Levels. This curriculum is recognised worldwide and provides a seamless transition for students moving to or from the UK.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Aside from its strong academic focus, the British School of Amsterdam also offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities, from sports and music to drama and art, fostering a well-rounded education.
2. Amsterdam International Community School
About the School
The Amsterdam International Community School (AICS) is a Dutch subsidised international school that caters to students from four to 18 years old. The school is part of the Esprit Schools group and is located in the south of Amsterdam.
Curriculum
AICS offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, which is divided into the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The IB curriculum is known for its rigorous and holistic approach to education.
Extra-Curricular Activities
AICS also offers a variety of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and various clubs and societies. These activities are designed to enhance students’ learning experiences and personal development.
3. International School of Amsterdam
About the School
The International School of Amsterdam (ISA) was the first school in the world to offer a complete International Baccalaureate programme from kindergarten to grade 12. The school is located in the suburb of Amstelveen and caters to students from over 50 different nationalities.
Curriculum
ISA offers the full IB programme, which is recognised worldwide for its academic rigour and focus on students’ personal development. The school also offers a variety of language programmes, including Dutch, French, Spanish and Mandarin.
Extra-Curricular Activities
ISA provides a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and various clubs and societies. These activities are designed to enrich students’ learning experiences and foster a sense of community.
4. The Japanese School of Amsterdam
About the School
The Japanese School of Amsterdam is a unique institution that offers a Japanese curriculum for students from kindergarten to junior high school. The school is located in the Buitenveldert neighbourhood of Amsterdam.
Curriculum
The school follows the Japanese national curriculum, which is taught in Japanese. This curriculum is designed to maintain and develop students’ Japanese language skills and cultural understanding, while also preparing them for further education in Japan or elsewhere.
Extra-Curricular Activities
The Japanese School of Amsterdam also offers a range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, and traditional Japanese arts and crafts.
5. United World College Maastricht
About the School
Although not located in Amsterdam, the United World College Maastricht (UWCM) is worth mentioning due to its unique educational approach. UWCM is a part of the United World Colleges movement, which aims to make education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.
Curriculum
UWCM offers the IB programme for students aged from two to 18. The school also places a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community service, in line with the United World Colleges’ mission.
Extra-Curricular Activities
UWCM provides a variety of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and various clubs and societies. These activities are designed to enhance students’ learning experiences and foster a sense of community.
In conclusion, Amsterdam offers a wide range of international schools, each with its unique curriculum and approach to education. Whether you are looking for a British-style education, an IB programme, or a Japanese curriculum, you will find a school in Amsterdam that meets your needs. Remember, the best school for your child will depend on their individual needs, interests and long-term educational goals.
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