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Study Abroad Campus Education - High School Cultural Exchange Programs
- Study Tours

WHY STUDY IN THE NETHERLANDS?

Studying in beautiful Netherlands 15-18 years on our High school cultural exchange is an experience in itself. The Netherlands is an open-minded, tolerant, and progressive country with fertile farmlands, picturesque canals, charming seaside fishing villages, and bustling modern cities. Since much of the Netherlands is below sea level, it’s common to see lots of dikes holding back the icy waters of the North Sea. 

The Netherlands has the largest range of English language programs in Europe. Almost all High school has an English version of any programs taught in Dutch. The way Dutch people teaching is different from other countries. It is interactive and the students are taught not just to think for themselves but to work together in groups. You develop skills such as analysis, practical problem solving, working in a team and creative thinking. Studying in the Netherlands helps you learn how to develop your own opinion after having done thorough research and also asked other people’s opinions.

SCHOOL LIFE

The standard of High school schools and education in the Netherlands is high. Most schools in the Netherlands are government-run, though there are a few independent international schools.  Program is available for a short stay of 3 months or 5 moths semester or 10 month year stay.  English is widely spoken and Dutch is not compulsory to join the program.  We offer you a language course to learn prior and during your stay. 

Education is compulsory (leerplicht) in the Netherlands from the ages of five to 16, however, most children start to attend primary school at age four. 

Dutch high schools are divided into three streams: one to prepare students for vocational training (VMBO), another to prepare students for university (VWO), and a middle stream to prepare students to study at universities of applied sciences (HAVO).

Classes are held from Monday to Friday. Most lessons take place between 08:30 and 15:00, with a break for lunch from 12:00 to 13:00. Most schools are also closed on Wednesday afternoons.

HOST FAMILY LIFE

Dutch people are usually very open, friendly and welcoming. During meals, Dutch families usually share their adventures of the day. In Dutch homes, all family members share chores.

In the culture of the Netherlands, parents are the heads of the family. They determine the rules. Dutch children, however, will often disagree and argue and discuss things with their parents. This is not considered rude or insolent, on the contrary: in the Netherlands many parents think it is good for young people to have their own opinions and encourage their speaking out.

Dutch families like to do things together, especially on weekends. This includes sports, social clubs, visiting relatives, or attending social or cultural activities together. People in the Netherlands divide their time consciously between all sorts of activities. 

Simply sitting down doing nothing is considered a waste of time. Students who live in a host family can improve their language skills dramatically through daily conversations with the family members. 

The greatest reward for the students and families is the deep, lasting friendship between them.

“Rust Roest” (rest rusts). According to dictionary Van Dale this translates to: “It’s better 

to wear out than to rust out.”

 

Dutch Saying