Selecting a school in Netherlands can be one of the most stressful parts of moving with kids. Websites seldom explain what daily life is actually like, and every family's priorities differ. This guide focuses on practical questions and a straightforward decision process — especially for families planning a move to Delft.
First: Define What “Good” Means for Your Family
Before comparing options, identify your non-negotiables. Many choosing mistakes stem from comparing everything at once without a clear set of priorities.
- Commute: how much time you spend driving each day matters more than you may realize.
- Curriculum: British / American / IB / local options.
- Language environment: what language your child is exposed to throughout the day.
- Support: learning assistance, ESL support, pastoral care.
- Culture fit: the school's structure, discipline, and communication style.
How to Decide Without Feeling Overwhelmed
A practical method that suits expat families.
A straightforward process
- Compile a location-based shortlist first. In Delft, traffic can turn a solid school into a daily hassle.
- Check availability and the admissions timeline. Waiting lists are common.
- Inquire about the classroom reality. Class sizes, teacher turnover, communication approach.
- Ask about the support services. ESL / learning support / transition support for new students.
- Conduct one visit (or virtual tour) for each finalist. Trust your own impressions over glossy brochures.
Pro tip: Create a one-page checklist and rate each school after visiting. It prevents the “everything feels identical” issue.
Questions to Ask Schools
These questions tend to reveal more than generic “tell us about your program” discussions:
- What is the usual class size for this age group?
- How do you integrate new students mid-year?
- How do teachers communicate with parents (weekly updates, apps, email)?
- What does a typical day look like (start/end times, breaks, homework expectations)?
- How do you support kids who are anxious or adjusting to a new country?
- What is the language support policy (ESL) if needed?
- How do you manage heat and indoor/outdoor time in warmer months?
Costs and Logistics (The Part No One Enjoys)
School decisions are never just tuition. Factor in the full routine cost:
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Choosing by reputation alone: the daily routine matters more.
- Ignoring commute time: it affects sleep, mood, and family life.
- Assuming “international” means the same everywhere: it doesn’t.
- Not asking about support: transitions are real for kids.
- Waiting too long: admissions timelines can be tighter than expected.
The Bottom Line
The right school for your family is typically the one that meshes with your actual daily life: where it is, the support you receive, and everyday ease for your child — not the district with the most flashy marketing.
If you’d like help sorting priorities for Delft (commute, routines, inquiries to make), get in touch — or call +31 6 1234 5678.