Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus and International School Laren are both in Amsterdam, about 26 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus also offers IBCP. Published annual fees are €6,025 - 9,168 at Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus and €5,355 - 7,020 at International School Laren, which puts Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus roughly 23% higher. Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus takes pupils from 4 to 18, and International School Laren from 11 to 18. Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus is the larger school, with around 725 pupils to International School Laren's 125.
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Amsterdam International Community School - South Campus
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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International School Laren
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year €6,025 - 9,168 | Fees / year €5,355 - 7,020 |
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Age range
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Age range 4 - 18 years | Age range 11 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme) | Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils 725 | Pupils 125 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 22 | Typical class size — |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 2022 | Opened 2018 |
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Bus service
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Bus service Yes | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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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 Langsakker 4a, 1251 GB Laren, Netherlands. The school is on the grounds of Laar & Berg in the Het Gooi region, near Hilversum, about 30 minutes southeast of Amsterdam and Schiphol airport. |
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Stages
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Stages Primary and Secondary | Stages Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). |
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School type
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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 |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix The school serves students of all nationalities living in The Netherlands; international student body. | Pupil nationality mix More than 30 nationalities represented. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support In-class student support led by teachers and mentors to meet diverse student needs. | Additional learning support — |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation The Netherlands (Dutch international school). | Country affiliation Netherlands |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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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 The school day starts at 8:30am and ends no later than 3:30pm. |
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Bus service details
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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 A bus stop is located outside the school. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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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 Application / Registration fees and deposit - Registration fee: €150 per applicant (one-off, non-refundable). - Deposit: €500 per student (one-off, refundable). Tuition and related annual charges by year group (2025/2026 academic year) - Grade 6: - School Fee: €4,930 per year. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €5,355. - Total Invoice on enrolment (School Fee + MacBook + registration + deposit): €6,005. - Grade 7: - School Fee: €5,132 per year. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €5,557. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,207. - Grade 8: - School Fee: €5,132 per year. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €5,557. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,207. - Grade 9: - School Fee: €5,132 per year. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €5,557. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,207. - Grade 10: - School Fee: €5,132 per year. - MYP/DP costs where applicable: (MYP/DP costs apply for upper-year programmes as shown below). - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €6,170. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,820. - Diploma Programme (DP1 / Grade 11): - School Fee: €5,745 per year. - DP/MYP programme costs (DP specific charge): €613 (MYP/DP cost shown for applicable years) and for later DP year shown as €850 where applicable. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €6,170. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €6,820. - Diploma Programme (DP2 / Grade 12): - School Fee: €5,745 per year. - MYP/DP programme costs: €850 where applicable. - Annual MacBook costs: €425. - Total School Fee (current students): €7,020. - Total Invoice on enrolment: €7,670. MacBook and technology costs - Annual MacBook contribution shown: €425 per student per year (applies to Grades 6–12). The published new MacBook purchase price is €1,275; a 3‑year payment plan is offered for the MacBook. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are presented as an annual Total Invoice on enrolment (the published amounts above list the Total Invoice including registration fee and deposit). - Proration when starting or leaving during the school year is applied according to month. The published schedule sets the percentage of the Total School Fee payable depending on the month of starting and the month of leaving (e.g., starting in August = 100% payable; starting in November = 80% payable; leaving in August = 50% of the year charged; leaving in February = 70% charged; leaving in May–July = 100% charged). - Refunds and non‑refundability: - A refundable deposit of €500 is charged on enrolment; the registration fee of €150 is non‑refundable. - For students leaving during the academic year, 50% of the total School Fee is non‑refundable. - Refund of examination costs after 15 December is not possible. A surcharge may be imposed on exam students if an error in registration is discovered after signing the registration form; exams re‑taken in November incur an additional standard fee. Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed as a provision for International School Laren; no boarding fees are published. The school's published admissions and school information present it as a day school offering the IB MYP and DP programmes without boarding options. Other costs and compulsory items - PE/Sports kit: The PE/Sports kit is compulsory for all students in Grades 6–11. New students receive their first kit order (blue t‑shirt & shorts only) free of charge using a promo code provided during admissions; additional sports kit items (hoodies, leggings, pants, etc.) are at parental cost and are ordered through a third‑party webshop. Contact details for the kit supplier are published. - Examination surcharges: Additional fees are charged for exam registration errors and for resit exams (including November re‑sit fees). Refund of exam costs is not possible after 15 December. Refunds and cancellations (summary) - Registration fee: non‑refundable. - Deposit: refundable, subject to the school's refund handling. - If a student leaves during the academic year, 50% of the total School Fee is non‑refundable; the published month‑by‑month proration schedule determines the payable portion when starting or leaving part‑way through the year. - Exam fee refunds are not available after 15 December. Fee payment options - The publicly published fee pages and admissions information list the fee amounts, registration and deposit requirements, proration and refund rules, and provide school contact details for queries, but they do not specify the accepted payment methods (for example, whether payment by bank transfer, SEPA, credit card, or direct debit are accepted). For payment method details, contact the school using the published admissions contact (email: islaren@atscholen.nl; phone: +31 35 206 2202). Notes about price adjustments - The published prices are subject to indexation. (Brief note on any publicly unavailable fee details) - The published admissions and fees material provides detailed annual charges, registration and deposit amounts, MacBook costs, exam refund rules and a month‑by‑month proration schedule. The published material does not specify invoicing frequency beyond the annual Total Invoice presented on enrolment nor the specific accepted payment methods; those details are handled through the school's admissions/finance contact. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement — | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options — | Food options There is a canteen on site. The canteen is shared with the Laar & Berg campus. |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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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 ISL is part of Alberdingk Thijm Scholen (Verenigde Scholen J.A. Alberdingk Thijm), a Dutch foundation that operates seven independently run secondary schools. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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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 ISL delivers the International Baccalaureate curriculum, offering the Middle Years Programme (IBMYP) and the Diploma Programme (IBDP). In the IBMYP, eight subject groups are taught: Language and Literature (English and Dutch); Language Acquisition (Spanish and Dutch); Individuals and Societies (Humanities); Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics); Mathematics (including Extended Mathematics from Grade 9); Arts (Theatre and Music); Physical and Health Education; and Design, with the Personal Project completing the year. In the Diploma Programme, six subjects across Language and Literature, Language Acquisition (Dutch B), Individuals and Societies (Business Management, Economics, Global Politics), Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Sport, Exercise and Health Science), Mathematics (Analysis & Approaches or Applications & Interpretations), and Arts (Film) are offered, with a DP core of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS). A bilingual Diploma may be awarded. The Diploma Programme is designed for students aged 16–19 and enables entry to universities worldwide, including Dutch universities and top North American universities such as Harvard and Yale. ISL emphasises small classes and has highly qualified staff. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio Small class sizes and highly qualified staff. |
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Exam results
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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 The Diploma Programme requires six subjects plus the core components—TOK, EE and CAS—across the six groups. A minimum of 24 points must be earned to be awarded the IB Diploma, with a maximum of 45 points. TOK and the Extended Essay are graded A–E and contribute to the diploma score. A bilingual diploma is possible if criteria are met; results are issued by the IB and official certificates are sent to the school in September. |
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Higher education progression
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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 The Diploma Programme enables entry to universities worldwide, including Dutch universities and top North American universities such as Harvard and Yale. A Career Counselor guides university admissions. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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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 ISL supports social and emotional learning through a wellbeing-centered approach that is embedded in its IB programmes. Wellbeing is defined as students feeling content with their school lives, experiencing positive interactions, holding positive attitudes toward school, and recognizing that their work has purpose and meaning. The IB framework emphasises communication, intercultural understanding and global engagement, which underpin social‑emotional development. The school aims to foster a safe, inclusive community where students feel respected and cared for. A Wellbeing Model guides practices across the student experience to promote holistic development. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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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) The admissions process requires documentation relating to any special educational needs. Failure to disclose information about known conditions at the application stage may result in withdrawal of the application. The school asks that relevant documents concerning special needs are included with the application. |
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English as an additional language
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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 EAL (English as an Additional Language) is embedded in the Middle Years Programme. Language & Literature options include English and Dutch, supporting English instruction for a diverse student body. In the Diploma Programme, English Language and Literature is mandatory. |
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Mental wellbeing
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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 ISL is committed to fostering the well-being of all students. Wellbeing means students are content with school life, have positive interactions, hold positive attitudes toward school, and feel their work has purpose. The school views well-being as a central concern and uses a formally documented Wellbeing model to guide practices across the student experience. The Mission & Vision also emphasizes support for students' social and mental well‑being. |
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Safeguarding
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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 ISL Policies include a Bully Protocol and Social Media Policy and an Inclusion Policy, which address safeguarding and creating a safe, respectful school environment. The ISL policies page also provides contact details for the school. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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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 Laren is located on the Laar & Berg campus. The ISL uses Laar & Berg's facilities including two gyms, sports fields, an art campus, a music room, a design room, five science labs, a media centre and a canteen. The facilities are modern and versatile to support a 21st-century educational experience. The school is in Het Gooi, central Netherlands, near Hilversum and about 30 minutes southeast of Amsterdam and Schiphol airport, with easy access to the A1. Hilversum train station is a 20-minute bike ride away, and many students cycle to school from surrounding towns. |
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Sports facilities
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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 Two gyms and sports fields are available on site. |
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Academic facilities
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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 Academic spaces include an art campus, a music room, a design room, five science laboratories, and a media centre. The academic approach is based on inquiry and contextual learning. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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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 — |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History — | History The International School Laren was founded in 2018 and is located in Het Gooi near Hilversum. It is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP) for students aged 11–18 (Grades 6–12). The language of instruction is English and Dutch. |
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Community
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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 ISL fosters a close-knit, vibrant community where every voice counts as students connect, collaborate, and help shape positive change. The school offers a range of after-school clubs, including Yearbook Club, Model United Nations (MUN), Arts Club, Futsal Club, Photography Club, Basketball Club, Cooking Club, and Volleyball Club. The House System comprises Cygnus, Draco, Hydra, Pegasus, and Phoenix to promote belonging, cross-year connections, and leadership. The Parents' Council acts as a liaison between parents and school administration, with grade WhatsApp groups and a weekly newsletter keeping families informed. |
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Parent teacher association
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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 Your Parents' Council is a small group of ISL parents representing all grades, serving as a liaison between the school administration and the ISL community. Grade representatives and WhatsApp groups connect families with information, and a weekly head of school newsletter outlines activities and contacts. Representing the Parents' Council are Gael Rowland and Caaren Abbott. Email: ParentsCouncilISL@outlook.com. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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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 IS Laren is an IB World School offering the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). The school participates in Model United Nations events, such as Lorentz Model United Nations Arnhem (LmunA), where students simulate UN proceedings. The IB framework supports global-minded, inquiry-based learning to prepare students for higher education. Students have opportunities to engage with international issues through IB coursework. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Nieuw Vocaal Amsterdam is a co-curricular vocal program at AICS. | Arts & creative The Yearbook Club lets students design pages, write captions, and tell the school's story; it is led by Mrs. Joaquim and meets Thursdays after school. The Dungeons & Dragons Club provides a social, imaginative, collaborative storytelling experience and meets after school; it is student-led by Florijn. The Photography Club gives students a chance to learn photography and create visual stories; it meets after school and is teacher-led by Mr. Lee. A Cooking Club is planned to start in December. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language — | Cultural & language The language of instruction is English and Dutch. The IB program emphasizes international-mindedness and intercultural understanding. IS Laren fosters intercultural understanding and a global learning community through its IB framework. |
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Social & hobbies
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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 After School Clubs include Dungeons & Dragons Club and Basketball Club, both offering social and recreational experiences after school (D&D meets after school on Tuesdays and Basketball meets after school on Thursdays). The Basketball Club provides a team sport that promotes camaraderie and fitness. The Dungeons & Dragons Club offers a social, imaginative outlet for collaborative storytelling. Texel School Camp provides outdoor activities and team-building experiences in a school-led residential trip. |
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Community & service
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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 Service as Action is an integral part of the IB programme, especially in the MYP community projects. Students engage in service activities by applying classroom learning to real-world contexts. Service as Action aims to develop caring members of the community who act to make a positive difference to others and the environment. IS Laren has hosted service-related initiatives, such as the Tulips campaign in partnership with the Tara Bodong Foundation. |
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Leadership & professional
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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 an active PTA and Student Council. The Student Council works with teachers, mentors, and student buddies to celebrate successes and realize initiatives. The IB framework supports leadership development and professional skills through student leadership opportunities. IS Laren participates in conferences such as Model United Nations, which develop collaboration and public speaking. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing — | Lifestyle & wellbeing IS Laren supports students' social and mental well-being. Sports and fitness are encouraged through Basketball Club, providing regular physical activity. Texel School Camp offers outdoor activities and team-building experiences for Grade 6-7. The school emphasizes a holistic learning environment balancing academics with well-being. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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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 English and Dutch are taught in Language and Literature. Dutch B is offered as an additional language in Language Acquisition, and Spanish is also offered as an additional language in MYP. In the Diploma Programme, Language and Literature includes English and Dutch (with School-Supported Self-Taught Literature), and Dutch B is offered as an additional language in Language Acquisition. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching English and Dutch are taught for Language and Literature. Dutch B is offered as an additional language in Language Acquisition. The ISL is located in the same building as its bilingual Dutch partner school, Laar & Berg. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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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 1. ISL accepts students in Grades 6-11 (DP1). Include all relevant documents concerning special needs; a reference letter from the current school may be requested if applicable. Failure to disclose special needs may result in withdrawal. 2. Once all documents are submitted, the school invites the applicant to an online interview. The interview assesses the applicant's English language ability and fit for ISL's program. The school may request additional information or documents if needed. 3. Based on the intake interview, feedback from the applicant's current school, and the academic results, a student may be accepted at ISL. English language proficiency is considered as English is the language of instruction. Applicants entering Grade 9 or Grade 10 must take an English test before a place can be offered. 4. There is a non-refundable registration fee of €150 per applicant, charged when ISL confirms definite entry to the school. Only when this fee is paid on time can a place at ISL be guaranteed. The school does not provide visa application support; students are responsible for applying independently for their study visas. 5. Enrollment is possible at any time during the school year. The admissions form can be downloaded, and inquiries can be directed to Ms. Eva Goossens (MYP Middle School Coordinator) and Mrs. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships — | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
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