International School Almere vs International School Utrecht

	I International School Almere Amsterdam, Netherlands	I International School Utrecht Amsterdam, Netherlands
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €4,520 - 7,275	Fees / year €4,820 - 7,700
Age range	Age range 2 - 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), BTEC Qualification	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 350	Pupils 1,150
Typical class size	Typical class size 24	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened 2012
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Located at Breskensweg 5, 1324 KE Almere, Netherlands. The school lies between Literatuurwijk and Stedenwijk and is close to Almere Muziekwijk station, with several bus stops within walking distance. Free parking is available on site, and students may park their bicycles on site. The building is accessible to wheelchair users.	Location The school is located at Van Deventerlaan 1, 3528 AG Utrecht, Netherlands. It sits in the city of Utrecht in the central Netherlands. The Utrecht International Centre information desk is located in Stadskantoor near Utrecht Central Station, illustrating proximity to transit and services for international families.
Stages	Stages Primary and Secondary	Stages The school offers three IB programmes: Primary Years Programme (4–11), Middle Years Programme (11–16) and Diploma Programme (16–18). The Primary Years Programme covers ages 4–11, the Middle Years Programme covers ages 11–16, and the Diploma Programme covers ages 16–18.
School type	School type IB World School offering all four IB programmes, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP).	School type The school is an IB World School. It offers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support For children with special needs or those requiring learning support, reports and relevant testing details are required before admission. The Learning Support Coordinator handles needs, and internal assessments may be required before admission. If, after a period of at least six weeks in school, the school cannot meet the academic, social/emotional or physical needs of a child, placement may be transferred to a more suitable establishment.	Additional learning support The school provides additional educational needs support through an inclusion team that includes school counsellors, inclusion coaches and a specialist. The school provides learning support services through the inclusion team, including in-class support, small group support and, where needed, individual support. The school uses a three-tier inclusion framework to organise interventions and progress monitoring.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation The Netherlands.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure The secondary school day begins at 09:00 and consists of six periods, with two tea breaks and a lunch break integrated throughout the day. Regular classes end at 16:00, followed by Project Time until 16:30 and afterschool clubs that run until 17:00.	School day structure The school starts Kindergarten and Primary with drop-off at 8:00 and first lessons at 8:30. The school notes Secondary travel by bike and may use public transport if coming from further away; the day includes timetable-based lessons, self-study periods and field trips. The school is mobile-free, with devices put away during the day.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Public transport is available via bus, tram and train (U-OV and NS) in Utrecht and the surrounding area. Many students travel by bike, and those from further away may rely on public transport.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fees - Primary: A non-refundable administration/application fee of EUR 150 per child is payable when submitting the application form. - Secondary: A one-off non-refundable application/registration fee of EUR 200 is charged for new students. A refundable deposit of EUR 500 is also required for new secondary students. Tuition fees by year group - Primary (single primary fee schedule for all primary year groups): - Annual school fee by month of enrolment: - Enlisting in August/September: EUR 4,520. - Enlisting in October: EUR 4,144. - Enlisting in November: EUR 3,769. - Enlisting in December: EUR 3,393. - Enlisting in January: EUR 3,017. - Enlisting in February: EUR 2,642. - Enlisting in March: EUR 2,266. - Enlisting in April: EUR 1,891. - Enlisting in May/June: EUR 1,514. - Secondary (fees shown per programme/year group; amounts are annual): - MYP 1–4: EUR 6,350 per year. - MYP 5: EUR 6,350 per year. - DP1 / CP1: EUR 7,275 per year. - DP2 / CP2: EUR 7,275 per year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Primary: The annual fee must be received before the student starts school to guarantee placement. Payment options offered are payment in full or payment in 8 instalments. International bank transfer details are provided (IBAN: NL55 INGB 0008569174; BIC: INGBNL2A). International transfers must be sent with the OUR instruction so the payer covers transfer charges; include the child's full name in the payment reference. - Secondary: The annual school fee is compulsory and the school fee agreement is signed for one year. Payment options include payment in one lump sum via bank transfer, payment in one lump sum via iDeal, or payment in 4 or 6 instalments (installments only by direct debit). Parents receive an email from WisCollect to select payment preference and to enter bank details for direct debit collection. Secondary international bank details: IBAN NL69 RABO 0132 48 44 20; BIC RABONL2U. Boarding fees - International School Almere is a day school (no boarding provision). There are no boarding fees. Other costs and mandatory additional charges - Secondary examination fees: range shown EUR 650–EUR 850 (exam fee varies by programme/student). - Secondary registration/administration: registration line-item EUR 200 (see application/registration fee). New secondary students pay a refundable deposit of EUR 500. - School trips (secondary): MYP 1–2: EUR 60; MYP 3–4: EUR 650 (these are invoiced with the school fee in September and some excursions are mandatory). - Student printing/start-up credit (secondary): a start-up printing quota of EUR 15 is provided to new students. Additional top-ups can be added to the account. - Primary: the published annual fees above are the primary tuition charges; no separate boarding charge applies; additional incidental costs (for trips or materials) may be charged as required. Primary payment options and bank details are as listed under Billing. Refund information and withdrawal terms - Secondary refund schedule (portion of total school fee payable based on starting month and the refund percentage when leaving in a given month): - August: portion payable 100%; refund when leaving in August: 50%. - September: portion payable 100%; refund when leaving in September: 50%. - October: portion payable 90%; refund when leaving in October: 50%. - November: portion payable 80%; refund when leaving in November: 50%. - December: portion payable 70%; refund when leaving in December: 50%. - January: portion payable 60%; refund when leaving in January: 40%. - February: portion payable 50%; refund when leaving in February: 30%. - March: portion payable 40%; refund when leaving in March: 20%. - April: portion payable 30%; refund when leaving in April: 10%. - May: portion payable 20%; refund when leaving in May: 0%. - June: portion payable 10%; refund when leaving in June: 0%. - July: portion payable 10%; refund when leaving in July: 0%. - Note: A refund is not permitted for students transferring to another school within 55 km during the school year. Parents are liable for full exam fees if withdrawal is made after 31 January for exam students.	Fee details Application & enrolment fees - Application fee (non-refundable): EUR 250. - Enrolment fee / deposit for new students (payable in advance): EUR 750. This enrolment fee serves as the deposit once the child starts school and is non-refundable if you decline the offered place. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per-term instalment amounts) Note: instalment payments are structured as four equal payments (25% each) when instalments are used; amounts below show the annual fee and the value of one instalment (25%). - Primary (KG1 – Grade 5) - Annual tuition for existing students: EUR 4,820. - Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,205. - New-student first invoice: Annual tuition EUR 4,820 + Enrolment fee EUR 750 = Total invoice EUR 5,570 (enrolment fee payable in advance). - Secondary — MYP (Grades 6–10) - Annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,050. - Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,512.50. - New-student first invoice: Annual tuition EUR 6,050 + Enrolment fee EUR 750 = Total invoice EUR 6,800. - Secondary — DP (Grades 11 and 12) - Grade 11 annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,950. Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,737.50. - Grade 12 annual tuition for existing students: EUR 6,950. Per instalment (25%): EUR 1,737.50. - DP examination fee (Grade 12): EUR 800 (additional one-off fee invoiced for DP exam). - New-student first invoices: Grade 11 = EUR 6,950 + EUR 750 enrolment = EUR 7,700; Grade 12 = EUR 6,950 + EUR 800 DP exam fee = EUR 7,750 (enrolment fee not applicable for Grade 12 new intake as listed). Billing schedule and payment terms - Four payment options are accepted: - Full payment by direct debit. - Payment by direct debit in instalments (available for students starting at the beginning of the academic year). - Manual payment by parent within 14 days of the invoice date. - Manual payment by company within 14 days of the invoice date. Parents remain ultimately responsible for payment regardless of any employer commitment. - Instalment timing (direct debit instalments): - 25% due by end of September; 25% due by end of October; 25% due by end of November; 25% due by end of December. An administration charge of EUR 10 applies for payment by instalment. Full fee settlement is required by the stated deadline in the invoice schedule. - Bank/payment details and instructions: - The school uses separate bank accounts for primary and secondary invoicing; payments must clearly display the student's full name and invoice number. Primary (PYP) IBAN: NL28RABO0182469549 (SPOUtrecht). Secondary (MYP/DP) IBAN: NL04RABO0356552195 (NUOVO). BIC: RABONL2U. Bank address: Rabobank Utrecht, Beneluxlaan 31-33, 3526 KK Utrecht. - Non-payment consequences: - Failed direct debits may lead to termination of the direct debit agreement; outstanding debts are transferred to a debt collection agency and additional costs will be charged to the parent/legal guardian. Persistent non-payment may result in referral of the student to the national education system. Boarding fees - Boarding: Not applicable. International School Utrecht operates as a day school and does not provide boarding facilities. Other costs and optional fees - MYP e-Assessment (external moderation / invoiced separately): - Partial e-Assessment (per course): EUR 60. - Personal Project and Interdisciplinary Assessment: EUR 120. - e-Assessment certificate (8 components): EUR 420. - Items and activities excluded from the standard tuition fee (invoiced separately): - External tuition and tutoring, School Supported Self-Taught (SSST) language tuition and materials, after-school clubs, home language lessons, Pamoja fees, optional overnight stays, and some optional activities. - Laptop requirement and cost responsibility: - All students from Grade 6 upwards are expected to have an Apple MacBook for school use; families must purchase this device themselves. The school operates an Apple webshop option and recommends purchasing insurance and repairs (36-month cover option available via the school webshop). Any purchase and insurance cost is borne by the family. - After-school activities, optional overnight trips and some assessments are charged separately and will appear on later invoices as required. Discounts and fee reductions - Sibling discount: Families with three or more children attending the school receive a 30% reduction on school fees starting from the third child and for each additional child thereafter. - Mid-year starter fee reduction (prorated scale when students start after the academic year begins): - Full amount if start in August or September. - 90% if start in October; 80% November; 70% December; 60% January; 50% February; 40% March; 30% April; 20% May/June. Refunds and deposit return - Refunds for leaving during the school year (percentage of the annual tuition refunded depending on month of departure): - August–December: 50% refund. - January: 40% refund. - February: 30% refund. - March: 20% refund. - April: 10% refund. - May–July: no refund. Note: specific departure procedures and the leaving form must be completed to process refunds. - Deposit return: - Thirty (30) days' notice via the leaving form is required to return the deposit. The deposit is reimbursed only when all financial obligations are met and school property is returned. Families who have re-enrolled and then cancel after 1 June are not eligible for deposit return except where ISU recommends an alternative programme. Fee payment methods (summary) - Accepted/available payment methods: direct debit (full or instalments), manual bank transfer/payment by parent, or manual payment by company within 14 days of invoice. Direct debit creditor IDs appear on statements; separate creditor IDs are used for primary and secondary billing. Credit/debit card payment is not listed as a standard payment method in the standard terms and conditions. An administration charge of EUR 10 applies for instalment plans. Administrative notes - Instalment payments are available only for students starting at the beginning of the academic year; instalment processing carries a EUR 10 administration fee and must be fully settled by the deadline stated in the invoice schedule.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements No boarding is provided. There is no school bus; public transport in Almere is well organized. After-school care is available through Partou, which operates a shuttle service and will pick up students attending BSO at the Club.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement IS Almere students do not wear a uniform.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options The school has a small canteen open during the lunch break and sells snacks. We encourage students to bring their own food from home in a lunch box.	Food options Primary students eat their packed lunch in the classroom and have a morning snack break. Secondary students often bring their own packed lunch, which they may heat up at school; they can also order a salad or sandwich from an external catering company set up in the school. Secondary lunch runs 12:45-13:30.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ISAlmere is part of the Almeerse Scholen Groep (ASG). The primary section falls under the ASG school board, and the secondary section falls under Het Baken.	Governance and ownership ISU is a Dutch International School governed by two cooperating local school boards: SPO Utrecht (primary) and NUOVO Scholen (secondary).
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details ISAlmere Secondary offers the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (DP), both IB-authorised and CIS-recognised. The MYP provides eight subject groups and prioritises interdisciplinary, holistic development, with MYP classes capped at 24 students. The DP comprises six subject groups plus a DP core; the core includes Theory of Knowledge, an Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity and Service. A Career-related Programme (CP) exists as a candidacy pathway for 16+ students, combining two DP subjects (DP Business and Management and DP Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations), the CP Core (Personal and Professional Skills, Reflective Project, Language and Cultural Studies (Chinese), Community Engagement), and a Career-related Study in Information Technology via a BTEC Level 3 International Diploma. The CP and DP are designed to prepare students for higher education and international careers.	Curriculum details ISU is an IB World Continuum school offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The PYP is inquiry-based and transdisciplinary, with student voice and ownership of learning, using units of inquiry that integrate mathematics and language while developing international-mindedness. The MYP develops active, internationally-minded learners through inquiry into local, national and global issues, organized into eight subject groups; in Grade 10 students begin more individualized pathways to prepare for the DP. The DP comprises six subject groups plus a core of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), with many subjects offered at Higher Level and Standard Level. ISU is a state-subsidised Dutch international school accredited by the International Baccalaureate and the Council of International Schools, and taught in a Dutch setting.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio MYP classes have a maximum of 24 students.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results Class of 2025: 77 registered in May; 75 passed; 97% passing rate; 4 registered in November with 100% passing rate for the cohort including November; ISU average points 32.2; highest score 45; 17 bilingual diplomas. Class of 2024: 63 registered; 63 passed; 100% passing rate; bilingual diplomas 18; worldwide May session passing rate 80%; ISU average 31.6; highest 43. Class of 2023: 50 registered; 49 passed; 98% passing rate including November retake; bilingual diplomas 18; worldwide May session 79%; ISU average 31.5; highest 43. Graduates have enrolled in universities including Imperial College London, TU Delft, University College London (UCL), London School of Economics (LSE), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Utrecht University (UU), University College Roosevelt, University of Galway, University of Hong Kong, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and others.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression DP has been authorized since 2010 to prepare students for higher education and international careers. The 2025-2028 School Plan notes CP candidacy with a planned launch for 2025-2026, expanding progression options. DP and CP are designed to provide pathways to universities and international opportunities.	Higher education progression Graduates pursue higher education at universities around the world. ISU alumni study at institutions such as Imperial College London, TU Delft, University College London, LSE, University of Amsterdam (UvA), Utrecht University (UU), University College Roosevelt, University of Galway, University of Hong Kong, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and others.
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 ISAlmere operates a year-group tailored mentor program that emphasizes social-emotional wellbeing. Mentors are the primary point of contact for students and families and collaborate with teachers and the Care Team to develop and implement support plans. The program embeds social-emotional competencies, including self-awareness, self-esteem, self-management, social awareness, friendship skills, and responsible decision-making, with a dedicated intake for new MYP1 students and ongoing reinforcement across year levels. It covers themes such as global citizenship, positive group dynamics, school safety, online behavior, gender diversity, and substance-use prevention. A Social Safety Coordinator promotes a safe, inclusive environment, while a Trust Persons role and Student Support Coordination support wellbeing across the school.	Social & emotional learning The school creates a positive and supportive environment that fosters belonging and well-being. The IB programmes are designed to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all learners. The Inclusion Team provides learning support, early intervention, in-class support, small-group and individual interventions. Student voice is encouraged and involved in planning and reviewing learning. A multilingual approach supports access to the curriculum and social inclusion.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) ISAlmere defines learners who require additional support as those experiencing significant difficulty accessing the curriculum, having a disability, medical or psychosocial condition, or needing adapted teaching approaches. The school provides internal support via the Care Team and Head of Care, including identification of needs, development of individual support plans, and inclusive arrangements such as Individual Educational Plans and inclusive access arrangements. English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners are not counted as needing additional learning support but are supported through the school's EAL framework. A three-level Support Framework – universal Tier 1, targeted Tier 2, and intensive Tier 3 – guides interventions to ensure all students can access learning.	Special educational needs (SEN) Additional educational needs refer to groups who may face barriers to education and learning. Categories include communication & interaction; cognition & learning; social, emotional and mental health difficulties; and sensory and/or physical needs. The inclusion framework uses three tiers to provide instruction and interventions at increasing levels of intensity. The Inclusion Team delivers learning support through consultation, observation, in-class support, small-group and individual support. ISU collaborates with regional support networks for Primary and Secondary and has a school doctor and nurse appointed by the municipality, coordinating with the Attendance officer and Buurtteam as needed.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language is supported through the school's dedicated EAL framework rather than as part of general learning support.	English as an additional language The language of instruction is English; all classes are taught in English, except Dutch Language Acquisition and secondary Spanish Language Acquisition. A multilingual approach recognises the value of home languages and multilingual learning. The school provides an English Language Acquisition (ELA) program for learners whose first language is not English; in primary, specialist ELA teachers work with classroom teachers with stand-alone ELA sessions. In secondary, students join English Language Acquisition (ENLA) classes and attend stand-alone ELA sessions in the Language Hub. Students may be asked to take a language assessment as part of enrolment.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is integrated through the mentor program and the school's care structure. The Head of Care, supported by the School Counsellor, coordinates student wellbeing and coordinates with external professionals as needed. The school's three-level Support Framework ensures universal wellbeing in Tier 1 and targeted supports at Tiers 2 and 3, with ongoing staff training to strengthen inclusive teaching and pastoral care.	Mental wellbeing Well-being is central to student success; the school provides a positive, safe and supportive environment to help students thrive. The Inclusion Team, including school counsellors and inclusion coaches, delivers support for social-emotional and mental health needs, with early intervention where possible. Student voice is encouraged in planning and reviewing learning to foster resilience and belonging. The school also provides health support through a school doctor and nurse appointed by the municipality and coordinates with local services as needed.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding ISAlmere maintains a Social Safety Policy and an anti-bullying protocol with zero tolerance to bullying. The policy defines bullying, outlines prevention and response procedures, and specifies the roles of mentors, teachers, support staff, parents, and an anti-bullying coordinator. Trust Persons are available to support students and families in sensitive cases, and Student Support Coordination, led by the Head of Care and a School Counsellor, oversees wellbeing and interventions, including collaboration with external services as needed.	Safeguarding The school takes safeguarding seriously with annual safeguarding and child protection training for all staff; a safeguarding lead and an inclusion team ensure school-wide focus. A safe learning environment is maintained; staff require a Police Clearance Certificate (VOG) and recruitment includes reference checks. Staff are trained to identify and respond to signs of abuse or neglect and take appropriate action, including involving local or international authorities when necessary. The school provides for trainees with an intensive guidance procedure; trainees must provide a valid VOG before entering their traineeship.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The International School Almere resides in a new building on Breskensweg 5 in Almere. The light-filled facility includes two gyms, two libraries, a laboratory, a workshop, and a large cafetorium for dining and school events. Primary and Secondary students occupy separate wings and frequently enjoy mutual, supervised activities. The campus is located centrally in the Netherlands, close to Amsterdam, with access to Almere's forests, lakes, and beaches.	Facilities overview The school operates from a temporary two-storey campus at Van Deventerlaan 1 in Utrecht Papendorp, with room for 1,200 students. A large temporary sports hall at the rear serves both primary and secondary students. Construction is underway for a new, purpose-built campus at Utrecht Science Park on Cambridgelaan 101 and is scheduled to be fully operational in 2027. The new campus will include indoor and outdoor sports facilities and a theatre, as well as spaces for science labs, visual arts and design, music studios, and outdoor learning. Regular building updates are published.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Two gyms are available for physical education and sports.	Sports facilities The school has a large temporary sports hall at the rear of the Papendorp campus used by both primary and secondary students. The temporary campus includes a two-storey building with space for 1,200 students. The new Utrecht Science Park campus will feature dedicated indoor and outdoor sports facilities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Beehive Library Learning Centre provides a growing collection of print and digital resources, world literature, and access to digital platforms and databases. Library services include research skill sessions, information literacy guidance, encouraging reading for pleasure, and collaborative learning spaces. The MYP and DP collections are expanding to support inquiry-based learning and international mindedness. The facility includes a science laboratory and a workshop to support practical, hands-on learning.	Academic facilities The new campus will offer indoor and outdoor sports facilities and a theatre. It will provide comfortable classrooms, science labs, visual arts and design spaces, music studios, and green spaces for outdoor learning. It will also provide spaces for independent learning and social spaces.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities International School Almere Insights; ALMUN; Dungeons & Dragons; Computers; Yearbook; Commodore; Reading; Basketball; Singing; Eco Schools; Orchestra; Student Council; Design; Rock Climbing; School Play; Badminton; Smart Start; Nightingale.	Extra curricular facilities After School Activities (ASA's) are run over two terms from September until February and from March until June. ASA's organised by ISU include Home Language Clubs (Grades 1-5) with languages such as Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish, and music programs including a private instrumental lessons program and the ISU Music Academy with seven musical projects across levels. Other ISU activities include Ballet (KG & Gr1), Chess (Gr1–5), Crochet (Gr3–5), Drama (Gr2–5), Football (Gr1–5), Guruscool Abacus (Gr1–5), and Photo Club (Gr3–5). Kind & Co Ludens offers varying after-school activities, including arts & crafts. Sign-ups are via a school app shortly before activities begin.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History —	History —
Community	Community International School Almere offers a secondary IB programme for students aged 12 to 18 within a diverse, intercultural learning community. Its mission is to inspire students to reach their full potential through academic excellence, intercultural awareness, and mutual respect within a diverse, caring community. The school celebrates every culture and language, including International Mother Language Week. The campus is centrally located in Almere, near Amsterdam, and the building is accessible to wheelchair users.	Community ISU fosters a connected Utrecht community. The Utrecht International Centre information desk is located in Stadskantoor near Utrecht Central Station, is open five days a week, and helps with residency permits/visas and registration with the municipality. ISU highlights the expat community by listing organizations such as International Women's Contact Utrecht, Utrecht mamas, Expats in Utrecht, Expats Utrecht, Make the Most of Utrecht, Expatica, Access and Iamexpat, and English-language news sources like Holland Times and Dutch News. The school community participates in celebrations of learning, school festivals, concerts and whole-school celebrations.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Parent Support Group (PSG) represents a collaborative entity comprising parents and ISAlmere staff members. The PSG coordinates the talents and availability of parents to provide support for educational provisions and extracurricular activities. Parent representatives serve as a channel for general ideas, initiatives, and concerns not specific to individual students, with the aim of having at least one representative per grade. The PSG bridges cultural, linguistic, and knowledge gaps for expat families and helps organize school and community events more effectively. To join, please email psg@isalmere.nl with your name, your child's grade, areas of interest, and preferred contact method.	Parent teacher association The Parent Support Group (PSG) helps parents connect by organizing monthly events such as coffee mornings, daytime outings and evening drinks, and supports parent clubs including running club, language club and book club. PSG can be contacted at psg@parent.isutrecht.nl. New Parent Connectors assist new parents with school information and link them with Grade parents. Each primary class has at least one parent representative who works with the teacher to recruit volunteers for class activities and excursions. ISU also has a Participation Council (PC) that includes staff, parents and students and advises on school vision and planning; PC regulations were updated in June 2024, and annual reports for 2022–23, 2023–24 and 2024–25 are available.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual International School Almere – Primary is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The curriculum is organized under six transdisciplinary themes: Who we are, How we Express Ourselves, How the World Works, How we Organise ourselves, Sharing the Planet, and Where we are in Place and Time. Learners explore through inquiry and make connections across subject areas such as science and the arts. The Maths programme uses Numicon to provide hands-on, visual learning, and Literacy uses the Talk for Writing approach to develop storytelling and writing skills.	Academic & intellectual ISU participates in the National Educational Fair (NOT) with a Design Team from Grades 8–9 that demonstrates 3D printing, laser cutting, soldering and coding for Junior IOT. The library provides personalised support for research, academic writing, referencing and responsible technology use. The language of instruction is English, and an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme helps learners whose first language is not English access the curriculum.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative After-school clubs support arts and creativity, including Orchestra, Singing, and a School Play. Art expression is learned within classroom teaching under the guidance of the teacher. Music and drama activities are integrated with IB learning themes to enrich creative expression.	Arts & creative ISU has an ambitious music programme for KG-Grade 9 delivered by an experienced music team. The ISU Music Academy runs group lessons and private instrumental lessons and includes seven musical projects. Private instrumental lessons cover vocal, drums, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, guitar, violin/viola, cello and piano, with after-school lessons available.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Language and culture are embedded in the school environment. English is the language of instruction and Dutch is taught as Host Country Language to help students navigate Dutch society. International Mother Language Week is celebrated to honour every mother language. ALMUN, a Model United Nations club, is one of the after‑school activities that fosters cultural and global awareness.	Cultural & language Home Language Clubs for Grades 1–5 are offered after school, including languages such as Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish. English is the language of instruction, with an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme to help learners whose first language is not English access the curriculum. The language acquisition approach supports multilingual learning and curriculum access.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Afterschool clubs offer a wide range of social and hobby activities, including Dungeons & Dragons, Yearbook, Reading, Commodore, and more. Physical activity is fostered through Basketball, Badminton, and Rock Climbing among other options. These clubs provide opportunities for teamwork, friendship, and personal interests beyond academics.	Social & hobbies After School Activities & Care offers Ballet (KG & Gr1), Chess (Gr1–5), Crochet (Gr3–5), Drama (Gr2–5), Football (Gr1–5) and Photo Club (Gr3–5). Home Language Clubs are available as part of ASA with languages including Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tamil and Turkish. ISU Running Group provides a weekly social run for parents, with coffee and chat after the run.
Community & service	Community & service A Parent Support Group volunteers their time and the Participation Council, made up of parents and staff, guides school matters. The Parent Support Group organizes social events, supports reading activities and library activities, and provides logistic and sports assistance. The Participation Council meets several times a year to advise school leadership.	Community & service Service as Action (SAA) is an integral part of the Middle Years Programme at ISU, giving students aged 11-16 the chance to learn and grow through community service. SAA projects include volunteering at local soup kitchens and fundraising for causes, with students choosing projects that hold personal significance. SAA develops critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration and leadership, following a four-step process from investigation to action.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership opportunities are offered through after-school clubs such as the Student Council and ALMUN. ALMUN provides Model United Nations experiences that foster leadership and global engagement. These platforms encourage students to develop advocacy, collaboration, and organisational skills.	Leadership & professional SAA fosters leadership and professional skills through project coordination and teamwork. Students take active roles in planning and managing SAA projects. ISU's student-led design team has represented the school at external events, such as the National Educational Fair (NOT). The SAA program is led by a dedicated coordinator who guides the projects.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Primary building features two gyms for physical education. Physical education is taught by specialist PE teachers in English and Dutch. The school emphasizes wellbeing through sport and active participation in after‑school physical activities.	Lifestyle & wellbeing ISU Running Group offers a weekly social run for parents, promoting fitness and community. Grade 2 students participate in swimming lessons as part of the school's safety and wellbeing program. Mental well-being is addressed in ISU's educational events, such as themes highlighted at the National Educational Fair (NOT) 2025. After School Activities & Care support wellbeing through structured activities and care.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the language of instruction for all students. Dutch is taught as the Host Country Language. In secondary, Language Acquisition includes English, Dutch, French and Spanish.	Language provision ISU uses English as the language of instruction, with Dutch Language Acquisition and Spanish Language Acquisition taught as separate language courses. An English Language Acquisition (ELA) program supports learners whose first language is not English in both primary and secondary. In secondary, English Language Acquisition (ENLA) classes and a Language Hub provide ongoing language support, and students may be required to take a language assessment during enrolment. Home Language Clubs and Home Languages Week celebrate multilingualism.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching English is the language of instruction. Dutch is taught as the Host Country Language.	Bilingual teaching No bilingual teaching; English is the language of instruction. Dutch Language Acquisition and Spanish Language Acquisition are taught as separate language subjects.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Personal interview and guided tours: The school invites prospective students and their families for a personal interview to understand each student's needs, strengths, and goals, and offers guided tours to experience daily life and facilities. The admissions approach starts with connection to ensure students feel supported as part of a vibrant community. As an IB World School, the school provides English-language education for students aged 11 to 18. 2. Documentation and application submission: Submit the documents listed in the IGVO registration document for the application, and download and complete the School Fees Financial Obligation form for each child to submit with the application. Click Apply now under Admissions to complete and upload the application form, upload all relevant documents, and pay the application fee. Appointments for interviews are scheduled only after the complete application is submitted with the required documents and the application fee has been paid. 3. Entrance testing and admission decision: Arrange for the student to sit an entrance test if required, and admission officers will be in touch with the student's previous school. 4. Acceptance, placement, and start: After acceptance, parents receive an invoice for tuition to be paid within two weeks, and a place is reserved for the student after payment. Parents receive information about the first day of school in the first week of July or the start date, and the student completes a language profile form to place them in the appropriate language groups. If a child must leave during the school year, four weeks' notice is required, with refunds governed by the school's fee policy; enrolment is possible at any time during the school year if space is available and an entrance test may be required in some cases (notably for DP1 and MYP5). 5. Ongoing arrangements: If relocating within the Netherlands or abroad, notify the school in writing; transfers within the Netherlands typically occur after major holiday periods. The above steps reflect the information published by International School Almere regarding the admissions process, entry requirements for the DP programme, and the general admissions workflow.	Admissions Get in touch. We would like to get to know your child(ren). Please contact our admissions team through OpenApply, our admissions portal. This initial contact starts the admissions process. Providing documentation. When you start the admissions process, we will ask you to upload information about the languages your child(ren) speak(s) and their educational background. This documentation helps the admissions team understand your child(ren)'s profile. Submitting the information advances you to the next stage of the process. Application stage. We will talk to you and look at your documentation to make sure that there is a good match between the school's educational provision and your child(ren)'s needs. The admissions team may discuss next steps and timelines with you. You will be updated as the process progresses. Welcome and onboarding. Once placement is confirmed, you will receive welcome information. On your starting date, you will be welcomed by the admissions team and join an induction meeting. Your child(ren) will be welcomed and supported by their classroom teacher or mentor.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist For the 2026–2027 academic year, spaces are available across most secondary year levels, with MYP 1 having spaces, MYP 2 having limited availability, and MYP 3 and MYP 5 currently full and operating with waiting lists. CP and DP also have spaces available, while MYP 3 and MYP 5 are on waiting lists due to strong demand. A CP Information Evening is scheduled for March 17, 2026 (18:00–19:30).	Waitlist —
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