Visiting a Dutch Primary School: What to Ask During Your School Tour

Choosing the Right School for Your Child

Choosing a primary school in the Netherlands is one of the most significant decisions you will make as a parent. Whether you are a local resident or an expat moving to the country, the Dutch education system offers a variety of styles—from traditional and religious to international and Montessori-inspired.

While the school’s website and brochure provide a great overview, they only tell part of the story. The most authentic way to understand a school’s culture, atmosphere, and daily rhythm is to visit in person. A school tour is your opportunity to look past the polished marketing and see how children actually learn, interact, and grow.

To make the most of your visit, it is helpful to go in with a structured list of questions. This guide provides concrete questions to ask across five key areas: pedagogy, class dynamics, after-school care, communication, and special needs support.

1. Understanding the Pedagogy and Learning Style

Every school has a different philosophy on how children should learn. Some focus on structured, teacher-led instruction, while others prioritize project-based learning and independent exploration.

During your visit, try to observe the classroom environment. Are the children sitting in rows, or are they working in groups? Is the room filled with books, art, or technology? Use these questions to clarify the school's approach:

• How would you describe your teaching philosophy in three words? (This helps you see if their values align with your parenting style.)
• How much autonomy do students have in choosing their projects or topics of study?
• How do you balance structured curriculum requirements with creative, play-based learning?
• How is homework managed? (In the Netherlands, homework varies greatly between schools; some schools have very little, while others expect daily tasks.)
• How do you integrate physical education and outdoor time into the daily schedule?

2. Class Size and Social Dynamics

Class size is a practical factor that directly impacts the amount of individual attention your child will receive. However, the ratio of students to teachers and the way students interact with one another is equally important.

• What is the average class size for this grade level?
• What is the teacher-to-student ratio during independent work time?
• How do you handle peer conflicts or social issues in the classroom?
• How do you ensure that quieter children are included in group activities?
• What is the school’s policy on bullying? (Ask for specific examples of how they have handled incidents in the past.)

3. After-School Care (Opvang)

For many parents, especially those working full-time, the availability and quality of after-school care are deal-breakers. In the Netherlands, this is often referred to as buitenschoolse opvang (BSO).

• Do you have an on-site after-school care program?
• If so, what activities are offered during those hours? (Is it supervised free play, or organized sports and crafts?)
• How do you handle the transition from the classroom to the after-school care area?
• What are the operating hours and the costs associated with the BSO?
• If you don't have an on-site program, can you recommend local providers that work closely with the school?

4. Communication and Parent Involvement

Education is a partnership between the school and the parents. You want to know how you will be kept in the loop regarding your child’s progress, as well as how you can contribute to the school community.

• How do teachers communicate with parents on a weekly basis? (e.g., via an app, email, or a physical folder?)
• How often do we receive formal progress reports or parent-teacher conferences?
• What is the best way to reach a teacher if I have a minor concern?
• How can parents get involved in school life? (e.g., volunteering for events, joining a parent committee, or helping with school projects.)
• How does the school handle communication with non-native Dutch speakers? (This is particularly important for expat families.)

5. Special Needs and Inclusion

Every child learns differently. Even if your child does not have a diagnosed learning disability, they may have specific needs—such as a need for extra support in reading, a high level of anxiety, or a physical requirement.\n
* What support is available for children who struggle academically or socially?
* Do you have a dedicated special education coordinator or a team of specialists?
* How do you support children with English as a second language (ESL)?
* How does the school handle inclusion for children with diverse physical or neurodivergent needs?
* Can you describe the process for requesting extra support for a child?

Final Tips for Your Visit

When you visit, don't be afraid to ask to see a classroom in action. If possible, try to visit at a time when the children are actively engaged in a lesson. Pay attention to the "vibe": Do the children look engaged and happy? Do the teachers seem approachable and calm?

Keep in mind that every school is unique. While some rules regarding enrollment and specific funding may vary by municipality, the core questions above will help you determine if a school is the right fit for your family's values and your child's personality.

Still unsure which school to visit first?

Comparing schools can feel overwhelming. Use KieSchool.nl to compare different primary schools in your area, read reviews from other parents, and narrow down your shortlist before you book your tour.