Emmis

We have just moved temporarily over to Amsterdam from Italy and want to enroll our 2 children (aged 4 and 7) into Dutch primary schools. They do not speak Dutch but we cannot really afford to send both of them to the British or International Schools here, and AIMS has a huge waiting list (years!).

We are in temporary accommodation and would prefer to find a decent primary school for both of them and then find accommodation in the neighbourhood (if the school's aren't strictly postcode linked like in Australia and the UK).

We already know Amsterdam quite well and know the areas we like! We have got in touch with the Steiner school, Geert Groote, in the Zuid and also with a primary school in the Oud West, AMGS, which has a seperate international class. We've heard back from Geert Groote and there are possibly places, but our eldest has to be interviewed first!

I understand that Vrije schools follow the Steiner method which we really like - is this true?

If we don't get into either the Geert Groote or the Oud West school could anyone recommend a Vrije school (Steiner) or other nice primary school in the Grachtengordel, Jordaan, De Pijp or Museum quartier? Would be hugely grateful!!

Thank you!

Casa Santo Estevo

The school system in The Netherlands do not have school reports like in the U.K. so obtaining “reviews” is to ask the parents of the children in the schools. However they are now closed so this maybe impossible.
Vrije schools do follow the Steiner method.
Entry into schools are not post coded related.
The eldest having an interview is normal, as they want to assess his level of previous education and abilities. He will then be placed in where it is best for him.

Emmis

Thanks for the information. My daughter has been interviewed at schools in other countries so I was expecting it to be honest - hopefully it won't be in Dutch!

Thanks again!