Perhaps you’ve heard of a primary school where multilingualism is not just encouraged but embraced? That’s the Europaschool. Founded in 1992, the Europaschool has always had an international outlook. It is located in Amsterdam Zuid.
The Europaschool is unique. What makes it so special? From their very first year, all pupils receive lessons in a different European language and culture. They can choose English, Spanish, or French. This early language learning is a key part of the school’s identity.
The Europaschool isn’t just for Dutch speakers. Children who don’t speak Dutch can attend, especially if they are younger than six. The school provides Dutch support classes to help them integrate. For older children, there’s even a special Newcomers Class. This class focuses on learning Dutch and helping them transition into the regular groups.
Diversity is a hallmark of the Europaschool. More than half of the pupils have at least one parent whose mother tongue isn’t Dutch. There are many nationalities represented. This varied population truly reflects Amsterdam. Parents choose the Europaschool for its unique educational concept and international character. But it remains a Dutch school. Lessons are taught in Dutch.
The Europaschool uses modern lesson materials and teaching methods. For most subjects, they use the DaVinci Method. This inquiry-based learning method develops an interdisciplinary, academic attitude. The DaVinci themes are supported by the foreign language lessons.
Early language learning is very important here. From the age of four, pupils learn English, French, or Spanish. Lessons are taught by native speakers. These lessons complement the DaVinci themes. The language chosen shouldn’t be one spoken at home. The school doesn’t provide mother tongue education.
By the end of primary school, pupils can take an internationally recognized exam in their chosen foreign language. They might achieve A1, A2, or even B1 or C1 level. This means they can hold conversations, understand news, and read simple texts. The language lessons also cover the culture of the country. This helps young people communicate with those who are different from them.
Interested in registering your child? The Europa School’s catchment area is the whole of Amsterdam. The school wants parents to consciously choose its educational concept. The school prioritizes children whose parents have named it as their preferred school.
If a pupil is offered a place, parents are invited for an interview. This meeting allows the school to understand any special needs the child may have. It’s also when the foreign language choice is agreed upon.
Children can start at the Europaschool when they turn four. Before they start, they visit the school for two half-days. This familiarization period helps them get to know the school.
The Europaschool is more than just a school. It’s a community where different cultures come together. Here, students learn to navigate a complex and multicultural world. The Europaschool shapes individuals who value multilingualism and cross-cultural understanding.