A1KNM
A1 KNM: Education System
Education in the Netherlands is compulsory (leerplicht) from age 5 until age 16. Young people aged 16 to 18 who do not yet have a start qualification have...
Education in the Netherlands is compulsory (leerplicht) from age 5 until age 16. Young people aged 16 to 18 who do not yet have a start qualification have a qualification duty. After primary school, school advice and the doorstroomtoets help determine which secondary school track a child follows: VMBO, HAVO, or VWO.
| Level | Ages | Duration | What to Remember |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basisschool | 4-12 years | 8 years | Children usually start at age 4, but school is compulsory from age 5. |
| VMBO | 12-16 years | 4 years (vocational) | VMBO is a practical/vocational route and usually lasts 4 years. |
| HAVO | 12-17 years | 5 years (higher vocational) | HAVO prepares for higher professional education and usually lasts 5 years. |
| VWO | 12-18 years | 6 years (university prep) | VWO prepares for university and usually lasts 6 years. |
Examples
- Tot welke leeftijd is school verplicht?
- Until what age is school mandatory?
- Leerplicht is tot 16 jaar.
- Compulsory education is until 16.
- Mijn kind gaat naar de basisschool.
- My child goes to primary school.
Study note
The Dutch education system may seem strict with its early 'tracking', but students can move between levels. Parent involvement is expected - attend school meetings and parent evenings (ouderavonden)!
Practice after reading
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Practice A1 KNM Exams
Train A1 knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.