Introduction to The British School in the Netherlands

The British School in the Netherlands (BSN) offers an exceptional choice for families seeking a British education in the Netherlands. Based in The Hague, BSN is a leading international school known for delivering high-quality British education to students aged 3 to 18. Over the years, The British School in the Netherlands has earned a strong reputation for merging British educational values with an inclusive, globally-minded curriculum tailored to the needs of an international community.

1. The History of The British School in the Netherlands

The British School in The Hague was established in 1931, initially serving British expatriate families. Over time, it expanded to welcome students from all around the world. Its mission to provide a world-class British education in the heart of Europe has driven its expansion, now offering education across five campuses in The Hague. The school has continually adapted to meet the evolving educational needs of a diverse student body, blending traditional British values with a modern, internationally-minded approach.

BSN remains part of The British School of the Netherlands system and is a member of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). This accreditation reflects BSN’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards in line with British educational practices.

2. The Campuses of The British School in the Netherlands

The British School in the Netherlands operates multiple campuses in The Hague, each catering to different educational stages. Below is a brief overview of these campuses and the age groups they serve:

• Early Years and Junior School Vlaskamp (JSV): This campus serves children from 3 to 11 years old. It offers an engaging early years programme designed to lay a strong foundation in social, cognitive, and creative skills.
• Junior School Leidschenveen (JSL): Another junior school campus, serving students in the 3 to 11 age range, located in the Leidschenveen area of The Hague.
• Junior School Diamanthorst (JSD): This campus offers an environment focused on encouraging curiosity and foundational learning skills for young students.
• Senior School Voorschoten (SSV): This campus caters to students aged 11 to 18, preparing them for higher education and life beyond school through GCSEs, A-Levels, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.

Each campus is equipped with specialised facilities tailored to meet the needs of different age groups, providing an enriching environment for learning and development.

3. Academic Curriculum and Programmes

British Curriculum Foundation

BSN follows the British curriculum, beginning with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for younger children. As students progress, they transition to a curriculum based on the UK’s National Curriculum, with assessments and qualifications structured around IGCSEs and A-Levels.

Adaptability for an International Audience

While based on the British curriculum, BSN adapts the curriculum to meet the needs of its diverse student body. This means a strong emphasis on intercultural understanding and language development, with English as the primary language of instruction and Dutch and other languages offered as additional language options.

The IB Diploma Programme

In the later stages of secondary education, BSN offers students the choice between A-Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. This dual offering allows students the flexibility to pursue their preferred route based on personal learning preferences and future educational aspirations.

4. Extracurricular Activities and Student Support

Extracurricular Opportunities

The British School in The Hague places a strong emphasis on holistic education, encouraging students to participate in a range of extracurricular activities. These activities cover various fields, including sports, music, drama, and community service. Students can join clubs, participate in competitions, and take part in cultural and social events that foster personal growth and community spirit.

Well-being and Support Services

Recognising the challenges that expatriate students might face, BSN provides extensive pastoral care and support services. Counsellors, mentors, and language support are available to assist students in adjusting to a new country and academic environment. The school prioritises mental health and well-being, ensuring students have the resources they need to thrive both academically and personally.

5. Admission Process and Requirements

BSN operates a rolling admissions policy, allowing families to apply throughout the year. This is particularly beneficial for international families who may relocate unexpectedly. The school’s admission requirements typically include a prior academic record and, in some cases, an assessment to determine placement. Prospective students and parents are encouraged to tour the campuses and speak with admissions staff to gain a thorough understanding of what BSN offers.

6. Facilities and Resources

The British School in the Netherlands is known for its impressive facilities, which support academic, sporting, and artistic pursuits. The Senior School Voorschoten campus, for instance, houses advanced science labs, a theatre, a sports complex, and a state-of-the-art library. Each campus is designed to inspire learning and provide students with access to resources that facilitate a well-rounded education.

7. Comparison to Similar Institutions: Thomas Keith Online Independent School

For families considering British schooling options beyond traditional settings, the Thomas Keith Online Independent School offers an interesting alternative. Known for its rigorous British curriculum delivered through an online platform, the school caters to students who benefit from a more flexible learning environment.

8. The Community at The British School in The Hague

One of the defining features of The British School in The Hague is its vibrant, multicultural community. Families from over 80 countries choose BSN for their children, creating a melting pot of cultures and perspectives. The school hosts regular events that bring the community together, from international fairs to cultural days, allowing students to learn about and celebrate diversity firsthand.

9. Why Choose The British School in the Netherlands?

Choosing an international school is a major decision, particularly for families in a foreign country. BSN stands out as a trusted British school in the Netherlands due to its commitment to academic excellence, a broad range of extracurricular options, and a welcoming community. The school’s long history, established reputation, and commitment to adapting the British curriculum to an international context make it a prime choice for expatriate families.

Conclusion

The British School in the Netherlands offers a comprehensive, British-style education tailored to meet the needs of a diverse, global student body. With a variety of campuses catering to different age groups, a dual-curriculum choice in secondary education, and a robust extracurricular programme, BSN provides a well-rounded and supportive environment for students. By choosing a BSN, families invest in an education that values academic rigour, cultural diversity, and personal development.

FAQs

1. How is the curriculum at The British School in the Netherlands different from UK schools?
BSN follows the British National Curriculum but tailors it to meet the needs of an international community. This includes offering language support, promoting cultural understanding, and allowing students to choose between A-Levels and the IB Diploma in their senior years.

2. What are the language options at BSN?
English is the primary language of instruction, but Dutch is also taught across all age groups. Students can study additional languages, including French and Spanish, particularly in their senior years.

3. Is The British School in The Hague suitable for non-British families?
Absolutely. BSN is an international school, and families from over 80 countries choose it for its high academic standards and inclusive community.

4. How does BSN support students’ well-being?
BSN offers comprehensive well-being services, including counselling and mentoring, to support students emotionally and academically. There are also pastoral care systems in place to ensure students feel safe, supported, and engaged.

5. What is the difference between The British School in The Hague and Thomas Keith Online Independent School?
While BSN provides a traditional school setting with physical campuses and face-to-face learning, Thomas Keith Online Independent School offers a British curriculum through an online school platform. The latter is ideal for students needing a flexible learning environment.