Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus vs International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm

	A Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus Amsterdam, Netherlands	I International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm Amsterdam, Netherlands
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €6,025 - 9,168	Fees / year €1,866 - 8,164
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Dutch Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 725	Pupils 700
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Dutch
Opened	Opened 2022	Opened 1982
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The AICS operates two campuses in Amsterdam: South Campus at Arent Janszoon Ernststraat 1179, 1081 HL, Amsterdam, and Sandcastle (SE) Campus at Bijlmerplein 1000, 1102 MK Amsterdam. The two campuses form one Dutch international school, served by one team; the curriculum, school values and philosophy are the same across campuses. The Amsterdam International Community School offers international education in English.	Location Emmastraat 56, 1213 AL Hilversum, Netherlands. The campus is located on a single site and is conveniently situated between Amsterdam and Utrecht; it is easy to access by train.
Stages	Stages Primary and Secondary	Stages Primary Years Programme; Middle Years Programme; Diploma Programmes; Bilingual VWO stream; for ages 4 to 19.
School type	School type The Amsterdam International Community School is a co-educational day school. It does not offer boarding facilities for any age groups, as it is designed to support international and local families residing in the Netherlands.	School type IB World School offering PYP, MYP, DP and bilingual VWO; day school; coeducational.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The school serves students of all nationalities living in The Netherlands; international student body.	Pupil nationality mix Over 45 nationalities represented; a diverse student body.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support In-class student support led by teachers and mentors to meet diverse student needs.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The Netherlands (Dutch international school).	Country affiliation The school operates in the Netherlands.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Primary day: Arrival 08:10; Registration and lessons start at 08:30; Story time and snack – 15 minutes; Morning break 30 minutes; Lunch break 30 minutes; Play time 30 minutes; End of day 15:15 (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri); 12:00 (Wed). Secondary timetable varies; all lessons on Thursdays start at 11:00; DP timetables differ by subject; students may be required to start at 10:15.	School day structure Primary day: starts 8:30; doors open 8:20; finishes 14:45 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; finishes 12:30 on Wednesday. Secondary timetable runs 08:30–17:15 with a lunch break 12:35–13:15.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school offers a dedicated shuttle service to assist families with the daily commute to and from the South Campus. This service is operated by an external partner, Atlas Shuttle. Parents can contact the provider directly via phone or email to inquire about routes and arrange transportation for their children.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fees - Registration fee: EUR 200 per student. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid to process the application; payment is taken via a credit-card payment link during the application. Annual tuition and itemised charges (school year 2025–2026) For new students starting in August 2025 the annual school-fee totals and the component breakdowns are as follows (amounts shown in EUR): - Primary Group 1–5 — Total: EUR 6,025.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 5,505.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 138.00 - Lunch supervision: EUR 363.00 - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - Primary Group 6 — Total: EUR 6,309.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 5,505.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 422.00 - Lunch supervision: EUR 363.00 - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - Primary Group 7 — Total: EUR 6,230.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 5,505.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 343.00 - Lunch supervision: EUR 363.00 - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - Secondary MYP1–MYP4 — Total: EUR 7,178.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 6,531.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 628.00 - Lunch supervision: not applicable - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - Secondary MYP5 — Total: EUR 7,628.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 6,531.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 628.00 - Lunch supervision: not applicable - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 450.00 (MYP assessment/exam charge) - DP1 & CP1 — Total: EUR 8,318.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 7,671.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 628.00 - Lunch supervision: not applicable - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 0.00 - DP2 & CP2 — Total: EUR 9,168.00 - Tuition fee component: EUR 7,671.00 - Excursion & activities: EUR 628.00 - Lunch supervision: not applicable - Year book: EUR 19.00 - Examination fees: EUR 850.00 (IB examination charge) (These component totals produce the annual Total School Fees shown above.) Deposit and registration summary - Deposit: EUR 500 per student. The deposit is payable with the first instalment and is refundable subject to the school's withdrawal conditions. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoicing: Families will receive invoices via the school's invoicing system (WIS Collect); the finance team issues one invoice at the latest by the beginning of June each school year. Parents/caregivers receive an email with a link to view and pay invoices. - Existing (returning) students payment schedule (2025–2026): - First instalment due by 1 July. - Second instalment due by 31 October. - The two instalments are equal halves of the full annual amount. A student may be excluded from school and transcripts withheld if fees remain unpaid. - New students starting in August/September 2025: the annual fee may be paid in two instalments (first instalment includes the EUR 500 deposit). New students starting in October or later are required to pay the prorated/full amount for their start month in full (no instalment option for October onwards). A detailed prorating schedule per starting month is applied. - Prorating (examples for new students starting after August 2025): - August: 100% of annual fee - September: 100% of annual fee - October: 90% of annual fee - November: 80% of annual fee - December: 70% of annual fee - January: 60% of annual fee - February: 50% of annual fee - March: 40% of annual fee - April: 30% of annual fee - May: 20% of annual fee - June: 10% of annual fee - July: 10% of annual fee. Refunds, cancellations and withdrawal - Cancellation for new students: If a new student cancels after acceptance and after payment of the deposit and first instalment, the family must give one month's notice (excluding school holidays). Without one month's notice the EUR 500 deposit is retained; the tuition fee itself will be refunded. - Withdrawal by enrolled families: A 30‑day written notice is required to receive a refund of remaining tuition, deposit and costs; a 60‑day notice applies for students leaving at the end of the academic year. Refund percentages are prorated by month (for example, August 75% refund; March 10%; April–July 0%) and the exact refund amount depends on the month of exit and full payment of fees. The deposit is refundable only when withdrawal conditions are met (notice given, fees paid in full, school property returned). Refund processing typically takes 4–6 weeks; if withdrawal occurs around winter or summer break it may take up to 10 weeks. The school also applies specific rules for students who withdraw within 30 days before the planned start date. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable; the AICS operates as a day school and no boarding fees are listed. Other costs and incidental charges - IB / examination items excluded from the standard fee: IB exam retakes for CP2 & DP2, E‑Assessment retakes for MYP5, and remarks on request are excluded from the school fee and are payable separately. - MacBook provision (secondary students): MacBooks and chargers are loaned to secondary students; parents are financially responsible for negligence, maintenance, repairs, loss and theft. If a MacBook is not returned or is damaged, the replacement/repair cost will be charged and may be deducted from the deposit. - Locker card replacement: EUR 5 for a replacement secondary locker card. - School supplies / uniform: The school provides basic school materials and the first AICS T‑shirt is provided by the school for primary students; additional AICS T‑shirts may be purchased. Parents must supply certain personal items (book bag, lunch box, indoor gym shoes, specified stationery, graphic calculator for higher secondary levels, etc.). Fee payment options and practical payment details - Registration fee payment: taken via a credit‑card payment link during the OpenApply application process. - School fees payment: invoiced through WIS Collect; parents receive an email with a link to view invoices and to pay via the iDEAL payment link offered in WIS Collect. Companies/employers can be invoiced directly on request; company invoices carry 30‑day payment terms from the invoice date. Parents receive reminders from WIS Collect three days before payment due dates. - Instalment deadlines and consequences: first and second instalment due dates are indicated above; missed payment deadlines can result in delayed start, forfeiting the student place, referral to collection agencies and withholding of transcripts and reports. All costs from debt collection and legal proceedings are charged to the parent/caregiver. Summary - Annual Total School Fees 2025–2026 (new students starting August 2025): Primary Group 1–5 EUR 6,025; Primary Group 6 EUR 6,309; Primary Group 7 EUR 6,230; Secondary MYP1–MYP4 EUR 7,178; Secondary MYP5 EUR 7,628; DP1 & CP1 EUR 8,318; DP2 & CP2 EUR 9,168. Deposit EUR 500 (held with first instalment). Registration (application) fee EUR 200 non‑refundable (credit card). Payment is administered via WIS Collect (iDEAL link); instalment and prorating rules apply as described above.	Fee details International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm — School Fees (current academic year 2025–2026) Application / Registration fees - Initial administration / registration fee (one-off, non‑refundable): EUR 150.00. Deposit - Deposit charged to confirm place on acceptance: EUR 500.00 (one‑off). This deposit is invoiced at acceptance. Tuition and related charges — International Stream (Grades 6–12) — academic year 2025–2026 - Grade 6 - School Fee (annual): EUR 4,930.00. - Examination & moderation costs (where applicable): EUR 613.00 (applies for certain exam-related charges in lower secondary where listed). - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 4,930.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment (School Fee + Registration Fee + Deposit): EUR 5,580.00. - Grade 7 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,132.00. - Examination & moderation costs: EUR 613.00 (where applicable). - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 5,557.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,207.00. - Grade 8 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,132.00. - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 5,557.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,207.00. - Grade 9 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,132.00. - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 5,557.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,207.00. - Grade 10 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,132.00. - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 6,170.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,820.00. - Grade 11 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,745.00. - Examination & moderation costs (IB/DP): EUR 850.00 (where applicable for exam cohorts). - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 6,170.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 6,820.00. - Grade 12 - School Fee (annual): EUR 5,745.00. - Examination & moderation costs (IB/DP): EUR 850.00. - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00. - Total School Fee (annual): EUR 7,020.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 7,670.00. Tuition and related charges — Primary (KG1 / Grades 1–5) — academic year 2025–2026 - KG1 through Grade 5 (Primary) - School Fee (annual): EUR 4,030.00. - Registration fee (one‑off): EUR 150.00. - Total Invoice at enrolment: EUR 4,180.00. Internationaal Tweetalig VWO (Bilingual VWO) — selective VWO streams (2025–2026) - IT Grades 7–10 (typical VWO 1–4 years): components shown include a lower annual School Fee plus additional charges for laptop contribution and excursions; example totals published for IT7–IT10 range from approx. EUR 1,866.00 to EUR 2,479.00 (depending on year and items such as excursions/exam charges). - IT Grades 11–12 (VWO years 5–6): school fee levels for these years are shown with laptop contributions and examination/moderation charges; example totals published: IT11 total approx. EUR 2,790.00 and IT12 total approx. EUR 3,640.00 for the year depending on included exam charges. Other specified recurring or one‑off costs - Laptop contribution: EUR 425.00 per student where listed (applies across primary/secondary streams where specified). - Examination and moderation costs: published per year and higher for DP/upper‑secondary exam cohorts (examples: EUR 613.00 or EUR 850.00 depending on year). - Excursions (where applicable to a programme): example figure shown for certain VWO years (IT7–IT10) at EUR 442.00 (2025–2026 data) as part of programme costs. - Uniform: no fixed uniform fee or mandatory uniform price schedule is published together with the school's annual fee tables; uniform purchase/prices are not listed among the published fee items. Billing schedule and payment terms - An invoice for tuition is issued after acceptance; the acceptance process includes payment of the registration fee (EUR 150) and an enrolment deposit (EUR 500) to secure the place. - Proration for students who start or leave mid‑year is applied according to the month of starting/leaving. The proration percentages published for the academic year are as follows (percentage of the annual School Fee to be paid): - Start in August or September: 100%. - Start in October: 90%. - Start in November: 80%. - Start in December: 70%. - Start in January: 60%. - Start in February: 50%. - Start in March: 40%. - Start in April: 30%. - Start in May: 20%. - Start in June or July: 10%. - Leaving in August or September: 50%. - Leaving in October–December: 50% (October–December shown as 50% for leaving months in the published schedule). - Leaving in January: 60%. - Leaving in February: 70%. - Leaving in March: 80%. - Leaving in April: 90%. - Leaving in May, June or July: 100% (full year charged if leaving in May onward). Refund policy and special refund rules - For students leaving during the academic year, 50% of the total School Fee is non‑refundable (the school's published rule). - The initial registration fee (EUR 150) is non‑refundable. - Refund of examination costs after 15 December is not permitted for exam charges that have already been invoiced. Exam registration errors and November re‑takes incur additional surcharges where applicable. Boarding fees - No boarding programme or boarding fees are published for the International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm; the school's published materials and admissions documentation do not list boarding provision or boarding charges. Other costs and optional charges - Optional programme costs such as excursions, specific trip contributions, and examination/moderation charges appear as additional line items in the published fee schedules for particular streams and grades (amounts are shown above where published). Laptop contributions are listed as a separate charge (EUR 425). No single, school‑wide uniform price list or fixed uniform charge is published alongside the annual fee tables. Fee payment options - An invoice is issued after acceptance that sets out the amount due and the payment instructions. The school's published parent and PTA materials demonstrate use of bank transfer (SEPA / IBAN) for school‑related payments; payment details for tuition and the precise accepted payment methods are provided on the invoice / enrolment documentation. Example bank accounts used for PTA payments are shown in school PTA communications (Rabobank IBANs used for PTA contributions), indicating bank transfer is a standard payment channel for school‑related charges. Summary points for parents (concise) - Annual tuition varies by grade and stream; primary fees start at EUR 4,030 (PYP KG1–Grade 5) and international secondary totals vary by year, with published totals for 2025–2026 shown above per grade. Registration fee EUR 150 and deposit EUR 500 are invoiced on acceptance. Laptop, exam and excursion charges are additional line items where applicable. Proration is applied by month for mid‑year starters/leavers according to the published schedule. Fifty percent of the total school fee is non‑refundable for students leaving during the academic year; registration fees are non‑refundable and exam fees are non‑refundable after 15 December. An invoice is issued after acceptance and payment instructions (including bank details) are provided on that invoice.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements The school has no boarding facilities; it is a day school.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options —	Food options The school canteen has been awarded the Gold plaque by Voedingscentrum (the Dutch Nutrition Centre). 80% of products are healthy choices; vending machines contain healthy snacks with little or no sugar; fruit and vegetables are offered; drinking water is encouraged.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Partly state funded by the Dutch government. All Dutch International Schools are connected to a Dutch school board. The AICS was founded by and is part of the Esprit Scholen Group and is also part of the DIS (Dutch International Schools).	Governance and ownership The school is government subsidised and part of Alberdingk Thijm Scholen; The board is responsible for the running of all the schools within Alberdingk Thijm Scholen.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The Primary Years Programme (PYP) has been implemented for students aged 4–11. It is a transdisciplinary, inquiry-based framework in which traditional subjects are taught in multi- or interdisciplinary units around six transdisciplinary themes: Who we are; Where we are in place and time; How we express ourselves; How the world works; How we organize ourselves; Sharing the planet. The PYP provides horizontal alignment across both campuses and vertical articulation with the Secondary School. The school has strengthened the arts in Primary and publishes the Programme of Inquiry for 2025/26. The Fireflies Programme supports learners with complex learning profiles, with differentiated curriculum and collaboration with Stichting Kolom and the samenwerkingsverband to support development of the programme and aligning Primary and Secondary. Specialist lessons include English Language Acquisition, Dutch Language Acquisition, Dutch Language and Literature, Physical & Health Education, and Performing Arts. Outdoor learning is part of the curriculum. AICS is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme.	Curriculum details The school offers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, and a bilingual Internationaal Tweetalig VWO stream. It is an International Baccalaureate World School and the language of instruction is English.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results Secondary School exam results (DP/CP): 2024–2025: DP pass rate 93% (133/143); CP pass rate 90% (18/20); All CP students will also receive their BTEC diplomas; highest DP score 43. 2023–2024: DP/CP pass rate 93%; one student achieved a DP high score of 45; CP students received BTEC diplomas. 2022–2023: DP pass rate 96% (87/91).	Exam results May 2025: 130 candidates registered; 124 passed the Diploma; average points 33; highest diploma points 43; average grade 5.33; pass rate 98%. Candidates who do not obtain the diploma can retake certain examinations in November or the following May.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates go on to universities in the Netherlands and internationally, including Leiden University (School of Law), University of Amsterdam, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Maastricht University, TU Delft (Architecture and Aerospace Engineering), Open University, and international institutions such as Parsons the New School for Design, Florida International University, University of Miami, University of Massachusetts Amherst, and University of Virginia School of Architecture.	Higher education progression Graduates pursue higher education at universities and international master's programs. Sean Hofland, class of 2011, earned a PhD at the University of Zurich and works in Switzerland. Lena Grobusch, class of 2016, is pursuing an Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management with study in Vienna and Lund.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Wellbeing and academic achievement are linked; a holistic approach nurtures students' emotional, social, and academic growth. The Wellbeing Programme comprises Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), the KIVA anti-bullying programme, the Common Sense Digital Citizenship Programme, and the Community Safety Agreement (CSA) developed with staff, students and parents. The AICS Wellbeing framework emphasises student agency, parent school child partnership and a sense of belonging, supporting wellbeing and learning. Members of the safeguarding team include Lyndsay Gregory, Child Protection and Safeguarding Lead; Niké Yonkio, Primary Sandcastle Campus; and Sanne Zaadnoordijk, Primary South Campus. The Multisignal system connects professionals involved with a student to coordinate support and resolve issues quickly.	Social & emotional learning The school includes self-knowledge and social and emotional learning as part of the learning program, with reflection and collaboration central to how students learn; it teaches the Approaches to Learning skills to empower students on their learning journeys.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The AICS uses an inclusive approach to learning and accepts students of average to above average ability, including those with English as an additional language and learners with learning diversity. Extra assistance is provided for a limited number of students. Speech and Language Team and Occupational Therapist services are available, and these services must be covered by health insurance. If capacity is reached, families may be placed on a waiting list until full support can be provided.	Special educational needs (SEN) Inclusion Policy supports teachers in accommodating each student's individual needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The main language of instruction is English. English Language Acquisition support is provided for students learning English as a emerging language, including an extended English Language Acquisition Programme (ELAX). The school also recognises English Best Language and Language Acquisition as part of its language provision and supports developing Dutch as a best language as part of its Dutch international school framework.	English as an additional language The Language Policy supports students who experience a barrier to learning due to operating in a language other than their home language.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is central to the school approach; a holistic wellbeing programme supports emotional and social development and links to academic growth. It emphasizes student agency, a parent school child partnership, and a sense of belonging. The programme includes CSE, the KIVA anti-bullying programme, the Common Sense Digital Citizenship Programme, and the Community Safety Agreement to support mental wellbeing and safe online behaviour.	Mental wellbeing Millie Scarborough 'Friends for Life' programme pairs Grade 6/7 students with older students to form friendships and lasting connections across the school; Rainbow Alliance is a student club focused on inclusion.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is led by a safeguarding team with Lyndsay Gregory as Child Protection and Safeguarding Lead (Secondary), Niké Yonkio (Primary Sandcastle Campus) and Sanne Zaadnoordijk (Primary South Campus). The school uses MULTISignal to coordinate professionals involved with a student, ensuring a coherent plan. A Community Safety Agreement and other safeguarding measures underpin the protective framework.	Safeguarding The School Mission describes a supportive and safe environment and healthy relationships within the school community; in accordance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, all decisions are made in the best interests of the student.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Amsterdam International Community School has two campuses in Amsterdam: South Campus and Sandcastle (SE) Campus. The campuses form one Dutch international school served by one team, with the same curriculum, values and philosophy across both locations. The school offers international education in English and is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme. The school provides education for students aged 4 to 19. The AICS Library is part of the school and hosts weekly primary reading sessions with book borrowing.	Facilities overview The International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm is on a single campus at Emmastraat 56, Hilversum. The school offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, and a bilingual VWO stream for students aged 4 to 19, all on one site. The campus supports a range of learning environments, including spaces for learning outside the classroom and the use of information and communication technology to support teaching and learning. The school's canteen has earned a Gold plaque from the Dutch Nutrition Centre for offering healthy options. The ISHilversum community comprises students from more than 45 nationalities and a wide array of student clubs and activities, including MUN, STEAM, and a Book Club.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Park Startbaan is a multi-sport facility that includes padel courts and offers competitive youth training. Frans Otten Stadion is a large recreation centre hosting padel clubs and sports facilities for junior programmes. The Frans Otten Stadion and nearby facilities provide venues for padel, football and other activities for students. AICS cooperates with local clubs and venues offering after-school sports and activities such as football, tennis and hockey for youth.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The AICS is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme. The school teaches in English and serves students aged 4 to 19. The AICS Library provides weekly reading sessions for primary groups and book borrowing. The School is part of Esprit Scholen Group and affiliated with IB, enabling the full continuum including Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma programmes.	Academic facilities There is an on‑campus library that provides resources for study, research and classwork and is used by clubs such as the Book Club, which uses Kindle devices funded by the library. The curriculum is delivered across the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme, with learning supported by a variety of spaces and integrated information and communication technology. STEAM projects combine science, technology, engineering, mathematics and the arts in hands‑on learning. The school emphasizes learning through diversity and inquiry, supported by a digital and physical learning environment on a single campus.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Global Citizenship Day promotes understanding of the world and developing the skills to contribute to it. Model United Nations is offered as part of the secondary programme. Nieuw Vocaal Amsterdam is a co-curricular activity available at AICS. AICS is an IB World School offering the full IB Programme, and co-curricular activities are integrated with the IB framework.	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities include Model United Nations (MUN) clubs with participation in conferences such as LMUNA Arnhem and other events; the MUN program has a leadership structure and regional engagement. The school supports a range of student clubs and activities such as STEAM, Book Club, Rainbow Alliance, Sustainability Committee and Student Council. Excursions and exchanges are part of the learning experience, including field trips and conferences. The Book Club uses ISHilversum library resources and provides Kindle access for members.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History —	History The International School Hilversum ‘Alberdingk Thijm' is a long-standing, highly experienced International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, and a Bilingual VWO stream for ages 4 to 19. It is one of only a handful of schools in Northern Europe to offer the continuum of all three IB programmes, bringing the full IB experience to its students. The school operates on a single site as part of the Alberdingk Thijm Scholen consortium, with a clear mission and an internationally oriented education programme. It is located between Amsterdam and Utrecht and is easily accessible by train. The learning community includes over 45 nationalities and a diverse teaching staff.
Community	Community The AICS comprises two campuses, South Campus and Sandcastle (SE) Campus, forming one Dutch international school served by one team; the curriculum, values and philosophy are the same across campuses. The school is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate Programme; the IB Primary Years Programme was authorised in September 2021 and the IB certificate programme was authorised in 2020. The AICS is part of Esprit Scholengroep, a large group of schools in Amsterdam, and Learning for life guides its approach, emphasising student agency, inquiry and community. Global Citizenship Day fosters understanding of the world and developing the skills to actively contribute to it, and the AICS Library supports weekly primary group reading and borrowing.	Community The ISHilversum is a single-site learning community with a rich mix of cultures, represented by more than 45 nationalities among students and staff. Students participate in a variety of clubs and activities including a Student Council, Sustainability Committee, Rainbow Alliance, STEAM, MUN, a Book Club and the Alberdingk Times student newspaper. The school also runs world language initiatives such as Language of the Month Celebrations, OWL Day, and Mother Tongue Day to celebrate linguistic diversity.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The AICS Parents Society (APS) is a parent-led organisation with a mission to build and support an active community surrounding the school. It hosts coffee mornings, international breakfasts, and other social events. It organises clubs and activities around parents' interests. It plans staff-appreciation brunches and primary graduation celebrations. It runs popcorn sales, winter fairs, and other seasonal events. It offers support and community to incoming families, fosters constructive dialogue with the school, and connects parents to each other.	Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) has many parent volunteers who contribute to ISHilversum. The goals are to represent the interests of students and those of their parents or guardians and to promote contact between parents. The PTA advises the parent representation of the Deelmedezeggenschapsraad (DMR) of the ISHilversum, maintains contact with the Leadership Team, and organizes meetings for parents, students and teachers. The PTA also organises social events and fundraising activities in school; helps students and families new to the Netherlands settle in; and publishes the International Community Guide to Hilversum each year. The Welcome back to school BBQ is a highlight on the PTA calendar, and the PTA email is PTAISH.board@gmail.com.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Model United Nations (MUNAICS) is the official conference hosted by AICS that invites students to engage in diplomacy and global affairs. It is a student-led event bringing together delegates from diverse backgrounds to develop research, negotiation, and public-speaking skills. The conference uses themes and committees to challenge participants and foster collaboration. The 2025 edition, A World in Transition: The Future of Global Solidarity, takes place September 27-28, 2025 at the AICS South campus.	Academic & intellectual The school has a Model United Nations (MUN) club. ISH hosts its own ISHMUN conference and participates in other major MUN events such as THIMUN and MUNISH. The MUN club collaborates with the Baking Club, Photography Club, and the school's Technology/IT team during events.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Nieuw Vocaal Amsterdam is a co-curricular vocal program at AICS.	Arts & creative The school has a Photography Club and a Baking Club. The Student Newspaper: Alberdingk Times is a student-run publication. ISH Arts Week features a Music Showcase, highlighting student creativity.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language The MUN club fosters cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship. Rainbow Alliance is a student club focused on inclusion and diversity. Our World Languages (OWL) activities, including Language of the Month Celebrations and Mother Tongue Day, support linguistic and cultural diversity.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Global Citizenship Day 2025 featured creativity, collaboration, and inspiration with workshops focused on sustainability, equality, and innovation. Students across all year levels participated, and the day highlighted student voice and teamwork.	Social & hobbies The school supports social and hobby-based clubs such as the Photography Club and Baking Club. The Alberdingk Times is the student newspaper. ISH Arts Week includes a Music Showcase. The Dutch International Schools 7x7 Football Tournament showcases student sports and teamwork.
Community & service	Community & service Service as Action is an integral part of the Core curriculum in the MYP where students apply knowledge in real-world contexts to make a positive difference. It develops lifelong transferable skills and Learning Outcomes. Examples of student action include Global citizenship activity, Jugueton Maya Project, and Chewing gum meets Art.	Community & service The school donated €3,258.50 to CliniClowns as part of its King's Day Service as Action. A Sustainability Day produced petitions led by the Sustainability Committee to discuss youth well-being and environmental initiatives with local government. Millie Scarborough 'Friends for Life' and Rainbow Alliance programs promote inclusion and community engagement. The school encourages volunteering and building partnerships with local organizations through the Student Portal.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Student Council is a group of elected students from each year level in the Primary and Secondary Schools who represent the student body and voice. The council functions in advisory and policy-making capacity. An Eco-committee also leads school sustainability initiatives under the Eco-Schools programme, focusing on litter, energy conservation, waste recycling, water, biodiversity, transport, healthy living, and global perspective.	Leadership & professional The school has a Student Council and a Sustainability Committee as formal student leadership bodies. Students lead and organize major activities, including ISHMUN and other student-led conferences. The school also joined the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing —	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school demonstrates a focus on youth well-being, including petitions on outdoor spaces and mental health resources discussed with local officials. Buddy programs and cross-age peer activities connect younger and older students. Neighborhood walks with Grade 10 buddies foster community and social learning. The school also runs sports events such as a Dutch International Schools 7x7 Football Tournament.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school teaches in English. It is a Dutch international primary and secondary school offering international education in English. It is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate programme.	Language provision The school offers the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme, and a Bilingual VWO stream, for ages 4 to 19.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The school has a Bilingual VWO stream.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Verify Eligibility and Availability First, check the school's Open Apply page to see current availability for new students. You must also review the specific entry criteria to ensure your child qualifies, as the school primarily caters to students spending a temporary period in the Netherlands or returning Dutch students. 2. Gather Required Documentation Before applying, prepare mandatory documents including valid passport copies, a digital photograph, and school reports from the previous two years provided in English. Families must also upload a BRP document from their local municipality and proof of temporary residence or a statement of intent to relocate. 3. Submit Application and Registration Fee Submit your formal application through the school's online portal. To complete the submission and secure your place in the processing queue, you are required to pay a non-refundable registration fee. 4. Await Processing and Placement For mid-term starts where a place is available, the process takes a minimum of two weeks. For the upcoming academic year, place allocations begin in May, with the Head of Campus determining final grade placements primarily based on the student's age.	Admissions The International School Hilversum provides an English-language international education for 4–19 year olds and welcomes applications from all genders, ethnicities and religions. Potential families should review the Admissions Policy and How to Apply sections before submitting an enquiry. Admissions to the International Stream (Secondary): 1. Enrolment is possible at any time during the school year if space is available. Applications are made online through Open Apply, and a school visit can be arranged by appointment with the Admissions Officer. An initial enquiry does not guarantee a place. Placement is based on space and alignment with programme requirements and families should review the policy and process before applying. 2. Conditions of entry include space availability, the school's ability to meet the student's needs, and the student's ability to fulfil programme requirements, with the Dutch Ministry of Education rules binding the process. Prioritisation places priority on certain categories of students, including those from our own PYP, international students needing a Dutch school, qualifying siblings, and other extenuating circumstances; entry is not guaranteed in strict chronological order. 3. Academic expectations require students who can profit from a challenging, English-language international education and the Diploma Programme; the programme is demanding and language-rich, and most graduates proceed to higher education. Inclusion is offered for students with learning challenges, with provisions evaluated against available facilities; families must report any diagnosed learning needs, and may be asked to provide relevant documents or undergo diagnostic testing as part of induction. 4. Age placement is governed by age with rare exceptions after careful evaluation; language requirements support international students, with English-language support (EAL) where needed in Grades 6–10. For the Diploma Programme, placement may require additional tests in Languages, Mathematics and Sciences; bilingual students may be admitted with specific criteria. 5. How to Apply: enrolment is online via Open Apply. Steps include an interest form, submission of two years of transcripts, a reference from the current school, a passport/ID, and possibly an entrance test and interview. A non-refundable administration fee is charged before any interview; upon acceptance, a €500 deposit secures the place, payable before the start date, and tuition invoices follow according to the current fee structure. New admissions are typically considered for September, January and April; admissions outside these times require prior agreement; the International Stream does not operate waiting lists. Admissions to Primary Years Programme (PYP): 1. Access to international primary education is available to students meeting space availability and programme readiness, with priority given to international families and those with English-language education outside the Netherlands; inclusion of Dutch nationals educated in English abroad is also considered. All PYP students are reassessed for eligibility to continue into secondary international education. Applications and placement follow a process similar to the international stream, with careful consideration of space and needs. 2. Prioritisation mirrors the international stream, with emphasis on emergency cases, international families needing a school in the Netherlands, qualifying siblings, and other extenuating circumstances. Age placement generally places students between ages 4 and 11, with Grade 1 requiring age 6 by October 1 of the admission year. 3. How to Apply: all primary applications are online via Open Apply; the administrator meets with families and potential students; an initial interest form does not guarantee a place; transcripts and two years of school records must be uploaded along with a passport/ID. Inclusion-related documents and questionnaires from the current school may be requested; an administration fee is charged upon definite entry; after acceptance, tuition invoices follow according to the fee structure. Toelating tot Internationaal Tweetalig VWO (Dutch content translated to English): Students who have a VWO recommendation from their primary school, hold a Dutch passport, speak Dutch fluently and have home language Dutch can apply to the Internationally Bilingual VWO program. The program is taught largely in English with Latin as an extra challenge; collaboration and self-management are important in the IB Middle Years Programme. If deemed necessary, an interview may be requested after enrolment. To be admitted to the Internationally Bilingual VWO program in the first year, students must meet the stated criteria and have an equivalent education (including Latin); to enter the Diploma Programme as a bilingual student, completion of at least VWO 4 is required, with minimum grades specified for higher-level subjects. Age placement is by age, with rare exceptions after careful evaluation by the Admissions Team. The usual enrolment procedure places ITW VWO students in the first year of secondary education (Grade 7, around 12 years old), with key dates for 2026/2027 published (open day, information evening, and formal enrollment window). All applications are online via Open Apply; the first enrollment does not guarantee a place; official primary-school advice and a valid passport/ID must be uploaded; interviews may follow enrollment; after admission, a invoice will be issued. Documents and links related to the 2026 enrollment are provided. Contact details are the same as the general admissions contacts.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist The International School Hilversum does not operate a waiting list.
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