International School Haarlem - Upper Primary Campus vs International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm

	I International School Haarlem - Upper Primary Campus Amsterdam, Netherlands	I International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm Amsterdam, Netherlands
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €5,330 - 6,740	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 IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), BTEC Qualification	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Dutch Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 228	Pupils 700
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Dutch
Opened	Opened 2017	Opened 1982
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Three campuses in Haarlem: Lower Primary at Buitenrustlaan 9; Upper Primary at Schreveliusstraat 27; MYP 1-5 and DP 1 at Junoplantsoen 58. All campuses are located in Haarlem, The Netherlands.	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 Lower Primary (Groups 1-3, ages 4-6); Upper Primary (Groups 4-7, ages 6-11); MYP 1-5 and DP 1 (ages 11-18).	Stages Primary Years Programme; Middle Years Programme; Diploma Programmes; Bilingual VWO stream; for ages 4 to 19.
School type	School type Day IB World School offering the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-related Programme (CP), and Diploma Programme (DP) in Secondary.	School type IB World School offering PYP, MYP, DP and bilingual VWO; day school; coeducational.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Over 50 nationalities represented; over 35 languages spoken; English is the working language.	Pupil nationality mix Over 45 nationalities represented; a diverse student body.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Inclusive, personalised approach with support for diverse learning needs, including those with learning difficulties, disabilities or medical needs. A learning support structure with in-class support, 1-to-1 and small group interventions, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support; resources and ICT to enhance curriculum accessibility.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation The school operates in the Netherlands.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure To allow travel between sites, start and end times are staggered by campus. Lower Primary (Buitenrustlaan): doors open 08:05, lessons begin 08:15, 10:15-10:30 break, 11:45-12:45 lunch, dismissal 14:30 (12:15 on Wednesdays). Upper Primary (Schreveliusstraat): doors open 08:25, lessons begin 08:30, 10:30-10:45 break, 11:45-12:45 lunch, dismissal 14:45 (12:30 on Wednesdays). MYP 1-5 and DP 1-2: doors open 08:45, registration 08:50, 11:00-11:20 break, 13:20-13:50 lunch, dismissal 15:50 (MYP) and 17:00 (DP) with occasional clubs 16:00-17:00; Wednesdays have earlier dismissal times (MYP 13:20; DP around 14:20).	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 —	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Registration fee - A one‑time non‑refundable registration (pre‑registration) fee of EUR 200 per student is charged at application. Deposit - A refundable deposit of EUR 500 per student is charged on the first invoice for new students. The deposit is refundable on withdrawal only if all school fees have been paid, correct notice has been given, and school property is returned in good condition; refunds may take up to 10 working weeks and any international transfer charges are applied to the recipient. Tuition fees — Primary (Groups 1–7) — academic year amount and month‑of‑start scale - Full annual tuition for Primary (Groups 1–7) is EUR 5,330 per year (100% for students enrolling in August/September). - If a child starts later in the academic year the tuition due is pro rata according to the month of enrolment as follows (amounts shown are the tuition charged for that month of enrolment): - August / September: EUR 5,330 (100%). - October: EUR 5,330 (100%). - November: EUR 4,799 (90%). - December: EUR 4,268 (80%). - January: EUR 3,737 (70%). - February: EUR 3,206 (60%). - March: EUR 2,675 (50%). - April: EUR 2,144 (40%). - May: EUR 1,613 (30%). - June / July: EUR 1,082 (20%). - An annual School Yearbook cost of EUR 20 is included in tuition and is not eligible for a late‑start discount. Tuition fees — Secondary (MYP / DP) — academic year amounts and month‑of‑start scale - MYP1–MYP4 (Middle Years Programme years 1–4): full annual tuition is EUR 6,660 (100% for August/September start). Field trip fee and the admin/deposit rules apply as below; pro rata tuition is applied by month of enrolment as listed. - August / September: EUR 6,660 (100%). - October: EUR 6,660 (100%). - November: EUR 5,996 (90%). - December: EUR 5,332 (80%). - January: EUR 4,668 (70%). - February: EUR 4,004 (60%). - March: EUR 3,340 (50%). - April: EUR 2,676 (40%). - May: EUR 2,012 (30%). - June / July: EUR 1,348 (20%). - MYP5 (final MYP year): full annual tuition is EUR 6,660 (100%), with separate E‑Assessment and field‑trip charges depending on enrolment timing as listed below. Pro rata tuition by month of enrolment follows the same percentage schedule as MYP1–4; the E‑Assessment fee is applied as shown. - MYP5 field trip fee (example values in fee schedule): typically EUR 540 (for August/September enrolments) and pro rata adjustments for later starts are listed in the fee table. MYP5 E‑Assessment fees are shown as EUR 415 (subject to the enrolment month schedule in the table). - DP1 (IB Diploma Programme year 1): full annual tuition is EUR 6,740 (100% for August/September start). Field trip fee is listed as EUR 540 and DP exam fees for DP1 in 2025–2026 are shown as EUR 0 for that year; deposit and admin fees apply as below. The last admission date for new DP1 students for the 2025–2026 year is specified as 30 September. - DP2 (IB Diploma Programme year 2, returning students only): full annual tuition is EUR 6,740 (100% for August/September start). A DP graduation fee of EUR 150 and DP exam fees of EUR 670 (for 2025–2026) are listed in the fee schedule for DP2. New DP2 transfer applications are not accepted. Additional / ancillary fees and typical charges - Field trip fees: charged per year group and vary by year and month of enrolment; amounts are listed in the fee schedules and cover transportation, entrance fees and occasionally accommodation. Example values: MYP1–4 field trip fee commonly EUR 320 (for early enrolment months) and EUR 280 for some later months; MYP5 and DP field trip fees listed as EUR 540 for August/September starts. - E‑Assessment / exam fees: MYP5 E‑Assessment fee listed as EUR 415; DP2 examination fees listed as EUR 670; DP1 exam fees are shown as EUR 0 for 2025–2026. - Yearbook: EUR 20 per student is included in tuition (no discount for late starts). - Laptop requirement for new Secondary students: new secondary students require a laptop provided via The Rent Company (details and timing communicated by the IT Team). The cost for laptop rental/purchase is arranged separately from tuition. - Company invoice fee: EUR 25 per invoice when an invoice is issued to an employer/third party or when paying in two instalments (admin fee). - Family discounts: the school applies fee reductions for large families — a 30% discount for the third (and youngest) child and a 40% discount for the fourth (and youngest) child attending the school concurrently; discounts apply to the specified child only. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoices must be paid in advance to guarantee places. Payment options for the academic year include: (A) pay in full by the invoice date (or by 1 June for returning students), or (B) pay in two instalments (option available if enrolled before 1 October). When paying in two instalments the first instalment is 50% of tuition plus the EUR 25 admin fee (and EUR 500 deposit for new students) by 1 June (or within 14 days of invoice for new students); the remaining 50% is due by 31 October. New students starting after the year begins must usually pay the full invoice (including deposit) within 14 days of invoice date. - Payment method: payment can only be made by bank transfer to the school's account at Rabobank (IBAN: NL64 RABO 0316 370 223; BIC: RABONL2U). For international transfers the school requires the OUR instruction so that transfer charges are paid by the sender. Receipts are available via the school's Open Apply invoicing/account system. Boarding fees - The school's published materials list campus locations for Primary and Secondary and do not include any boarding provision or boarding charges; boarding fees are therefore not applicable. Refunds and withdrawal notice requirements - If a student is withdrawn before their scheduled start date, 90 days' written notice from the original start date is required to obtain a full refund of tuition and the deposit; failure to provide 90 days' notice will result in no refund. For withdrawal between August and March a 60‑day notice is required and refunds of the annual tuition are applied on a sliding scale depending on the month the student leaves. Example refund percentages (month of leaving) are as follows: - September–November: 50% refunded of the annual tuition. - December–January: 40% refunded. - February (Primary): 30% refunded; (Secondary schedule shows February–March at 20% refunded; check the relevant year‑group schedule for exact percentage). - March: 20% refunded (Primary); April–July: 0% refunded. - The deposit return is conditional on fee settlement, correct notice and return of school property; refunds can take up to 10 working weeks and international transfer charges for refunds are applied to the recipient. These notice and refund rules are stated separately for Primary and Secondary fee agreements. Consequences of non‑payment - Failure to pay invoices when due may result in a student being moved to the waiting list (placement no longer guaranteed), withholding of certificates/transcripts, suspension from participation in lessons, referral to debt‑collection, and denial of subsequent year placement until fees are cleared. Summary of key payment amounts (selected highlights) - Registration fee (one‑time, non‑refundable): EUR 200 per student. - Refundable deposit for new students: EUR 500 per student (applied to first invoice). - Primary (Groups 1–7) annual tuition (100%): EUR 5,330. - MYP (secondary) annual tuition (typical full year): EUR 6,660. - DP annual tuition (DP1 / DP2 full year): EUR 6,740. (End of fee overview.)	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 The school does not have a uniform; students do not wear a school uniform.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options The school does not operate a canteen. All students have snack and lunch at school. In Primary, parents can sign up for a paid warm lunch provided by Tommy Tomato.	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 The school is a Dutch subsidised international school established by TWijs and IRIS, supported by the City Council in Haarlem; it is governed by the TWijs and IRIS boards and is a member of the Dutch International Schools (DIS) group.	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 International School Haarlem offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-Related Programme (CP), and Diploma Programme (DP) in Secondary. The school is authorized as an IB World School.	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 —	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 The Next Steps Programme guides students after MYP5. In DP1 and DP2, academic counsellors support university applications, including arranging Go-Abroad Fair visits in Utrecht and providing information on university Open Days, transcripts, reference letters, and predicted grades.	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 Inclusivity is provided through Learning Support. The school supports English as an Additional Language, and students who are working at a significantly higher level than age-related expectations, or identified as gifted, may be placed on the Learning Support Register with a tailored plan.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning International School Haarlem is an inclusive school with a personalised approach to the diverse learning needs of students, including those with learning difficulties, disabilities or medical needs. A clear and responsive support structure exists where teachers, tutors and Student Support staff work together to identify and remove barriers to learning. Support provision is planned and regularly reviewed, taking into account the views of the individual student and their parents/guardians. The safeguarding team handles social‑emotional concerns for the school. The safeguarding team for social‑emotional concerns includes Janine Ric‑Hansen, Clare Peterkin, Hannah Mansbridge and Mirjam van den Berg.	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) International School Haarlem operates as a mainstream school with a personalised approach to learning diversity. Admission depends on the applicant's needs and the school's ability to meet them within a mainstream setting and to enable benefit from the MYP curriculum. Learning Support includes 1‑to‑1 and small group targeted interventions, resources and ICT to support curriculum accessibility, and in‑class support by skilled support assistants. Primary Inclusion focuses on enabling all children to achieve academically, emotionally and socially through high‑quality teaching, differentiation, strategies to support neurodiversity, and access to appropriate resources. English as an Additional Language is supported with small group EAL lessons taught by a specialised EAL teacher, access to texts and vocabulary prior to lessons, and resources to support curriculum accessibility.	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 English as an Additional Language is valued and teachers are skilled in welcoming and supporting students who are new to English. Students who are new to English or developing academic English receive support in small group EAL lessons with a specialised EAL teacher, have access to texts and vocabulary prior to lessons, and benefit from resources to support curriculum accessibility in the classroom.	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 addressed through a focus on promoting positive self‑esteem and enjoyment of learning. A safeguarding team is available to support social‑emotional concerns. Staff responsibilities include creating a safe and respectful learning environment and supporting student wellbeing. The school provides digital safeguarding guidelines and codes of conduct for ICT use, with guidance for both students and parents. Safeguarding policies include reporting procedures for safeguarding concerns, including cases of domestic violence and child abuse.	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 The Wellbeing and Safeguarding Protocol establishes Codes of Conduct to safeguard against discrimination, sexual harassment and violence. A safeguarding team handles social‑emotional concerns and is responsible for safeguarding procedures. Digital safeguarding is addressed through an ICT code of conduct for students (and a signed agreement for parents), with disciplinary actions for breaches. The protocol provides reporting steps for suspected abuse and mandates reporting to authorities when required. Personal data handling follows GDPR guidance, with data access limited to what is legally required and necessary for safeguarding and education. Volunteers and staff are subject to background checks, including Certificates of Good Conduct (VOG) where applicable.	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 school operates across three Haarlem locations: Buitenrustlaan 9 for Lower Primary, Schreveliusstraat 27 for Upper Primary, and Junoplantsoen 58 for Secondary. The Libraries provide fiction and non-fiction, with magazines and a multilingual selection reflecting the international student body. The Libraries serve as learning hubs with magazines, online resources, and IT equipment such as printers, iPads, cameras, headphones, and Chromebooks, and staff assist with research and referencing. In Primary, the Oxford Reading Tree system supports literacy development and the library supports language development activities. ISH is an IB World School offering the International Primary Curriculum in Primary and the MYP, CP, and DP in Secondary.	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 Every MYP student has a two-hour practical Physical & Health Education (PHE) lesson each week, with sessions taking place in the school hall or outside on the fields. Students need gym shoes with non-marking soles, appropriate clothing, a towel, and a gym bag for PHE/PE. The Extracurricular Programme includes Olympic Moves, where students compete against peers from other Dutch schools; in 2024 the basketball team performed very well. BSJ and Sports Days are organized to celebrate culture and share community involvement through sports activities.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The school is an IB World School, offering IPC in Primary and the MYP, CP, and DP in Secondary. Primary literacy is supported by the Oxford Reading Tree system, with the library hosting language development activities. The Libraries offer magazines, online resources, and IT equipment (printers, iPads, cameras, headphones, Chromebooks) with staff guidance for research and referencing, providing a safe space to work or collaborate. The working language is English, with English Language Acquisition and support available as needed; DP language courses and language development initiatives are described in policy materials. Secondary students are required to bring a laptop to school, and Essential information for the student experience is published in ManageBac and the ISH School Guide available to families.	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 Secondary year groups go on residentials in the Netherlands and abroad, with team-building exercises to foster community. ISH hosts International Days and Sports Days to celebrate culture and sport. Students participate in Model United Nations (MUN) and Olympic Moves, with competitive events against other Dutch schools; in 2024 the basketball team performed exceptionally well. After-school clubs include language-focused activities, debate, newspaper clubs, bullet journaling, and more, all designed to support language development and diverse interests.	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 ISH opened its doors in September 2017 with a primary department. In 2018, its first cohort of secondary students began their learning journey in Haarlem. The school is an IB World School. It offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-related Programme (CP), and Diploma Programme (DP) for secondary students.	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 ISH aims to develop a community of caring, compassionate, honest, open-minded global citizens who engage with the world on local and global scales. The school provides dynamic, world-recognised teaching programmes with inquiry-based learning at the core and encourages participation in matters of worldwide interest and service activities. It emphasises positive personal and learning values, guides students to reach their potential as thinkers and lifelong learners, and maintains a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of the school community.	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 Parent Committee is a group of volunteer parents who contribute their time, talent and passion to make a difference in the school community. Current team: Chair – Mercedes Hualli; Secretary – Nada Wouters; Treasurer – Lydia Bruwer. The committee organizes events throughout the year to bring families together, including International Day, Bake Sales, Coffee Mornings, Seasonal Event Celebrations and the Summer Feest, and helps welcome new parents and foster belonging. The Committee relies on volunteers to run these events; to get involved contact ishparentcommittee@gmail.com.	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 International School Haarlem offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Career-Related Programme (CP), and the Diploma Programme (DP) for secondary students. The school is authorized as an IB World School. The learning philosophy centers on high-quality, challenging international education and the development of global citizens. The curriculum emphasises inquiry-based learning and the ability to think critically and act with empathy about local and global issues.	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 Art and music are integral to the curriculum. Expressive arts and design is a core area of learning in Early Years, and Art and Music feature prominently in the Primary IPC framework. Primary Music develops singing, music notation, creation and recording of music, and exploration of music from around the world, linking musical learning to IPC topics. Art and music are embedded in IPC themes across the Primary curriculum.	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 Language acquisition includes English, French, Spanish and Dutch. In Primary Years, English and Mathematics are taught using the English National Curriculum, while the IPC provides a thematic, multi-disciplinary approach to learning that nurtures internationally minded, globally competent citizens. The IPC aims to develop adaptability, empathy, ethics, resilience, respect, communication, collaboration and thinking across cultures.	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 The Extracurricular Programme includes International Days that celebrate culture and diversity, and Building Social Justice Days that bring in local and global communities to discuss societal issues. Students participate in Model United Nations (MUN) to practice dialogue and consensus, and in Olympic Moves to compete in various sports. Secondary students also undertake residential trips and team-building activities to develop teamwork and social skills.	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 International Days celebrate culture and diversity, reflecting the school's inclusive, international community. Building Social Justice Days engage local and global communities to address poverty, diversity and women's rights. Community engagement is a core component of the CP and is emphasized alongside other core CP elements such as language and culture studies.	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 The Career-Related Programme (CP) offers a broad, flexible education with a career-related study (Business) and a career-related core comprising personal and professional skills, the reflective project, community engagement and language and culture studies. CP aims to develop higher-order thinking, practical knowledge and employability. Academic counselling supports students with Next Steps planning, university visits, and application timelines after MYP5 and during the DP years.	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 Health and Wellbeing is a named area within the Primary IPC framework. Physical Education is provided to all Primary students, with two hours per week of specialist time, covering Games, Athletics, Gymnastics, Health-Related Fitness and Dance. P.E. lessons are linked to IPC units to promote healthy, active lifestyles. The school also supports wellbeing through inclusive practices, including English as an Additional Language support where needed.	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 English is the language of instruction for all students. English Language Acquisition (EAL) support is provided for learners who start with little or no English, and all MYP students study English and Dutch. MYP Language Acquisition courses are offered in English, Dutch, French and Spanish, and all MYP students study French or Spanish as LA in addition to English and Dutch. In the Diploma Programme, Dutch is compulsory for DP students who hold only a Dutch passport; DP offers Dutch Language & Literature and English Language & Literature, with SSST Language A: Literature and additional language options including French and Spanish.	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 IB World School (authorized to offer the IB Middle Years Programme, Career-related Programme and Diploma Programme).	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions International School Haarlem offers primary and secondary education in an English-speaking environment and welcomes applications from students worldwide who need international education. Admission follows national regulations for the Dutch International School. A student is admitted if they meet at least one of these conditions: the student has a non-Dutch nationality and a parent working in the Netherlands for a limited time; the student has Dutch nationality and has attended an international school abroad for at least two years because a parent was stationed abroad; or Dutch nationality and a parent who will be stationed abroad within two years of admission for at least two years, confirmed in writing by the employer. Prospective families submit a pre-application via Open Apply; completing the pre-application is required before requesting a school visit. For 2025-2026, there are no spaces left in MYP and DP; there are some spaces in Primary. The school will respond within 10 working days if eligible for admission, and a start date and visit can be arranged. A school visit can be scheduled once the application is complete and the registration fee has been paid; visits are on Tuesday 9:00-11:00 (Primary and MYP1-5), Thursday 9:00-11:00 (Primary and MYP 1-5), and Friday 12:20-13:20 (CP/DP). School visits are available throughout the year, with a 2–3 week waiting time to book a visit. Phone bookings are not accepted. The school offers the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) in Primary and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), Career-Related Programme (CP) and Diploma Programme (DP) in secondary, and is IB World School authorized.	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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