Lighthouse Special Education vs Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam

	L Lighthouse Special Education Rotterdam, Netherlands	N Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam Rotterdam, Netherlands
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €19,800 - 24,200	Fees / year €16,300 - 23,500
Age range	Age range 3 - 13 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IPC (International Primary Curriculum), British Curriculum, Dutch Curriculum, SEN focussed	Curriculum IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 25	Pupils 230
Typical class size	Typical class size 16	Typical class size 17
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1998	Opened 1959
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ Den Haag, The Netherlands. Lighthouse Special Education and Three Little Ships Preschool are located within the International Department of The Haagsche Schoolvereeniging in The Hague (Van Heutszstraat location). The building is wheelchair-accessible.	Location The school is located at Verhulstlaan 21, 3055WJ Rotterdam, The Netherlands. It is a private international school in Rotterdam. Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam provides door-to-door bus transport to and from the campus, operated by Taxi Wooning V.O.F., with routes planned to minimize journey times. Bus routes are scheduled, with the aim of keeping most journeys to about 45 minutes where possible.
Stages	Stages Early Intervention group (ages 2.5 to 5) within Three Little Ships preschool; Class 1 (ages 5 to 8); Class 2 (ages 8 to 13).	Stages Early Years, Primary, Lower Secondary, Upper Secondary
School type	School type International special education school.	School type International private school
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix More than 230 students from over 35 countries.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Cooperation with associated therapists and local Dutch specialists. The school works with psychologists, speech and language therapists, physiotherapists and other professionals to design individualised learning plans; Lighthouse also benefits from a dedicated assessment team and collaboration with Three Little Ships Preschool.	Additional learning support English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme provides English language support for students from Year 1 to Year 11; EAL support is provided at no extra cost.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation The Netherlands
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Daily schedule: Lighthouse classes run from 08:30 to 15:00, with a soft start around 08:20–08:45 for related groups. Lunches are integrated as part of the day; there is outdoor playtime and a focus on social and academic development. The Lighthouse program totals about 30 hours of lessons per week.	School day structure The school day starts at 8:10 am and ends at 3:05 pm. Foundation 1 and 2 finish at 12:00 pm on Wednesdays. Primary students register at 8:10 am, have a 45-minute lunch break, and afternoon pick-up is at 3:05 pm. After-school care and activities are available on campus after the formal day ends.
Bus service details	Bus service details Bus service is available for eligible students through local transport schemes; reimbursement of transport costs may be possible. The provider options include Wassenaar, Leidschendam-Voorburg and Den Haag.	Bus service details Door-to-door bus transport is provided to and from the Rotterdam campus by Taxi Wooning V.O.F.; the service operates on a fixed schedule with routes and zones, and fees are set according to transportation zones; changes may occur for after-school activities.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Assessment Fees - The school charges assessment fees for evaluations carried out by its associated therapists. Typical assessment fees are: Articulation assessment €200; Full Speech and Language Assessment €600; Occupational/Physical Therapy Assessment (on request); Occupational & Sensory Assessment (on request); IQ test (approx. €900); WISC‑V plus WIAT achievement test (approx. €1,260); Dyslexia assessment with IQ and achievement tests (approx. €1,400). Individual therapy sessions are typically charged at €85 per hour and are invoiced separately by the therapist. Tuition / Parental Contribution (by age group) — annual and per term - Early Intervention (Three Little Ships pre‑school, ages 3–5): €19,800.00 per school year. Per term (three equal instalments): €6,600.00. - Lighthouse Special Education (ages 5–13): €24,200.00 per school year. Per term (three equal instalments): €8,066.67. Billing schedule and payment terms - The annual contribution may be paid in full or in three instalments. Instalment schedule and due dates are: Term 1 — payable before 1 June; Term 2 — payable before 1 October; Term 3 — payable before 1 February. Payments are calculated pro‑rata for students who join during the school year. Reimbursements for students who leave during the school year are calculated on a pro‑rata basis after the notice/termination period is completed. Withdrawal and refund information - The school operates a 40‑week academic year. Written notice of withdrawal must be submitted on the school's Withdrawal Form. The contract continues for three months from receipt of the Withdrawal Form and the financial obligation continues for those three months. If a student leaves during the school year, any reimbursement is calculated pro‑rata after the three‑month termination period. Other costs and typical additional fees - Assessment and therapy fees as listed under Application / Assessment Fees (above). - Additional individual one‑to‑one support fees may be charged where full‑time additional assistance is required; these are arranged via Admissions. - Accident insurance: the school pays a student accident insurance premium that covers accidents during school hours (including one hour before and after school); parents remain financially responsible for medical bills in most cases. Parents are advised to maintain their own liability and medical insurance. - Transportation: where applicable, taxi/bus transportation between home and school must be requested through the local municipality; any eligibility and arrangements are handled by the municipality. Costs or arrangements for transportation are not covered as a routine school fee. - Meals, uniforms and after‑school care: lunch and snacks are typically provided by parents; there is no standard school uniform fee listed. After‑school care (BSO) and holiday care are provided by external providers and are contracted and paid for directly by parents. Fee payment options and account details - Payments are made by bank transfer to the school's fee account. Account details: STG HSV ID FEES, IBAN: NL87 ABNA 0245720170, BIC: ABNANL2A. (Payments should be made in Euros to this account.)	Fee details Application fee - Application Fee: EUR 200 (one-off, non-refundable). Tuition fees (annual and per term) — Academic Year 2025–2026 - Tuition fees are quoted in EUR for a single academic year (10 months). Annual tuition by year group: - Foundation 1 (age 3): EUR 16,300. - Foundation 2 (age 4–5): EUR 16,300. - Years 1–5 (ages 5–10): EUR 20,650. - Year 6 (ages 9–10): EUR 21,950. - Years 7–9 (ages 11–13): EUR 22,800. - Years 10–11 (ages 14–16): EUR 23,300. - Years 12–13 (ages 16–18): EUR 23,500. (Year 13 students incur additional IB exam charges charged by the IBO on a per-exam basis.) - Per-term tuition (approximate): the academic calendar is organised in three main terms; dividing the published annual tuition by three yields approximate per-term amounts as follows (annual ÷ 3): - Foundation 1 / Foundation 2: EUR 5,433.33 per term (EUR 16,300 ÷ 3). - Years 1–5: EUR 6,883.33 per term (EUR 20,650 ÷ 3). - Year 6: EUR 7,316.67 per term (EUR 21,950 ÷ 3). - Years 7–9: EUR 7,600.00 per term (EUR 22,800 ÷ 3). - Years 10–11: EUR 7,766.67 per term (EUR 23,300 ÷ 3). - Years 12–13: EUR 7,833.33 per term (EUR 23,500 ÷ 3). Additional one-off and recurring fees - One-time Capital Development Fee: EUR 3,000 (charged once per child from Year 1; non-refundable). Payment due in full within two weeks of accepting an offer. - Annual Registration Fee: EUR 1,600 per child (non-refundable). The first year's Registration Fee is due within two weeks of accepting an offer; for subsequent years it is invoiced with tuition. - Learning Support and EAL: - Specialist Learning Support: additional fees apply where specialist learning support is required; costs are calculated case-by-case. - EAL (English as an Additional Language) programme: the school states a comprehensive EAL programme is provided without charge. - Transport (optional, billed annually) — zone-based fees (Academic Year 2025–2026): - Zone 1 (0–5 km): EUR 3,400. - Zone 2 (5–10 km): EUR 4,300. - Zone 3 (10–15 km): EUR 5,200. - Zone 4 (15–20 km): upon request. - Zone 5 (20–25 km): upon request. - Zone 6 (25–30 km): upon request. Boarding fees - Boarding is not offered at this school; the school operates as a day school for ages 3–18. Other costs and extras - The published fees schedule identifies the items listed above. Specialist learning-support fees and IBO exam charges (for Year 13) are additional where applicable. No mandatory boarding fee is listed. No specific mandatory uniform fee is shown in the published fee schedule. Families should expect that optional extras (such as some trips, individual instrument tuition where applicable, and personal items) may be charged separately. Refunds and withdrawal - Refund policy: The school states it does not offer refunds under any circumstances. - Withdrawal notice / deadlines (written confirmation via admissions@naisr.nl): - Leaving in December (not returning in January): notify by 1 October. - Leaving during spring break (not returning in mid‑April): notify by 15 January. - Leaving at the end of the academic year (not returning in August): notify by 31 March. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition fees are calculated on an annual basis and are payable in advance by direct debit. For new students, all fees must be paid in full within two weeks of accepting an offer. For returning students, invoices for tuition and the annual registration fee are issued towards the end of the previous academic year and should be paid by the invoice deadline. The school's published enrolment‑during‑year schedule specifies percentage amounts payable depending on the quarter of enrolment (100% / 75% / 50% / 25%). Fee payment options and bank details - Primary payment method: direct debit / bank transfer to the school's account. The published payment details are: - Account name: Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam. - Account number: 42.60.22.785. - IBAN: NL07 ABNA 0426 0227 85. - BIC: ABNANL2A. - Instruction: include both invoice number and the child's name as payment references to ensure correct processing.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement A NAISR Shark outfit is required for HAPE (Grades 2–8). The outfit costs 45 Euro. Athletic shoes must be laced or velcro with no open toes. All students change for HAPE.
Food options	Food options —	Food options The school cafeteria is run by Innergy and prepares healthy meals for students. Lunch times include a 45‑minute lunch break with Foundation 1 eating in classrooms at 12:00, Foundation 2 through Year 6 eating at 12:00 with a recess until 12:45, and Secondary lunch from 12:45–13:30.
House system	House system —	House system The school uses a House system to foster a sense of community across age groups.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The Lighthouse Special Education is part of the Haagse Schoolvereniging (HSV) in The Hague.	Governance and ownership NAISR is part of Nord Anglia Education, a global network of premium international schools.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details An individualized curriculum is followed for each student with a strong emphasis on communication and social skills, and on learning how to cope in a school environment. For 5–13 year olds, the School Curriculum places emphasis on basic skills in communication, reading, spelling, language and maths, and is based on the English National Curriculum and the International Primary Curriculum (UK), cross-referenced with the Dutch Primary Education Curriculum. Students work on their own learning goals using a range of materials, including the Edmark Reading Program and Numicon. Students use iPads with apps tailored to their learning level and progress. An Early Intervention Curriculum (Three Little Ships) is play-based and develops communication, social, fine motor, early literacy and numeracy skills, with a focus on independence; the preschool class has a maximum of 16 children, with 11 typically developing and a high staff-to-student ratio.	Curriculum details IMYC and NAISR Pre-IB Programme are used in the middle years; in the upper years, students choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the NAISR High School Diploma, which provides tailored, vocational pathways to higher education. The curriculum is delivered across six core pillars and enhanced by collaborations with MIT and UNICEF via Nord Anglia Education, with further learning through the Nord Anglia University platform.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Preschool Early Intervention class has a maximum of 16 children, 11 of whom are typically developing, with a high staff-to-student ratio. Lighthouse Primary School class has up to 16 children taught by 1 teacher and 3–4 educational assistants.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results IBDP points scores are consistently above the global average, and graduates go to top Dutch and international universities.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression Graduates attend top Dutch and international universities, including institutions in the UK, US, and across mainland Europe.
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 The Lighthouse Special Education emphasises development of communication and social skills alongside academics. The school maintains a high staff-to-student ratio (1:4) to foster deep relationships and support social and emotional development. It uses three picture-based communication systems—PECS, PODD, and Proloquo2Go—to support nonverbal or limited-verbal learners. The curriculum prioritizes social skills and learning to participate in groups, with goals for language and social development in individual education plans. The Lighthouse supports integration into the HSV International Department, enabling social inclusion and language practice with age peers. The well-being framework emphasizes relationships, competence, and autonomy as core conditions for motivation and well-being.	Social & emotional learning The wellbeing programme is underpinned by core values guiding physical health, social development, and emotional resilience. A safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment supports every student's emotional and physical needs. The Primary and Secondary Student Councils give every child a voice and encourage leadership on important issues. The Health, Advisory and Physical Education (HAPE) curriculum teaches students how to look after their physical and emotional wellbeing. The Learning Support Department and Student Services Team include a social and emotional coach and an onsite school nurse, ensuring students are healthy, well, and content. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) team provides support for students who need extra help with English.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Lighthouse Special Education is the only international special school in The Netherlands, offering individualized education to children aged 3-13 who cannot cope in international mainstream education. The school serves students with very complex needs, including non-verbal autism and multi-disabled profiles, with challenges spanning visual impairment, language development difficulties, cognitive and physical disabilities, and behavioural challenges. There are three classes: Early Intervention (2.5-5) in Three Little Ships preschool, Class 1 (5-8), and Class 2 (8-13). Therapeutic interventions such as speech therapy, physiotherapy, sensory integration, and occupational therapy are available during the school day with medical approval; students have Individual Education Plans. The curriculum is taught exclusively in English, with integration into the International Department where appropriate, and resources are tailored to each student's needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) The Learning Support Programme provides the academic, behavioural, and social development assistance our students need to thrive. Students who may need academic, behavioural, or learning support are referred to our Student Services Team (SST), which includes the Head of Learning Support, the Principal, teachers, and parents, to assess needs and set goals. Our Learning Support Programme will improve student outcomes by developing the academic, emotional, social, and behavioural skills each student needs to succeed now and in the future. It provides support in the classroom and/or one-to-one, focusing on each student's strengths by personalising learning and modifying the curriculum. It fosters appreciation, acceptance, and respect for individuality, diversity, and each student's preferred learning style. It builds confidence, resilience, and a belief in the student's ability to succeed, supports development of friendships and important social skills, and creates a supportive, caring, and safe environment.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The Lighthouse curriculum is taught exclusively in English. Some students have English as a second or third language. Many students have limited verbal skills and communicate using pictograms and augmented communication systems such as PECS, PODD, and Proloquo2Go. Where applicable, Lighthouse supports language development through English-language instruction and integration with the HSV International Department. Therapy services, including speech therapy, support language development as part of the school day.	English as an additional language NAISR offers additional English language support to students from Year 1 to Year 11. EAL support is provided at no extra cost. Our expert EAL team create carefully planned strategies that ensure every child learns in a way that works for them. Our EAL programme supports students' linguistic, cultural, social, and emotional transition, while providing the appropriate scaffolding to help them succeed in and beyond the classroom. EAL teachers typically work alongside the student's teachers in the classroom, with direct one-to-one sessions possible when needed. EAL students are made to feel proud of their culture and native language, and their bilingual ability is viewed as an asset.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Well-being is central to the Lighthouse approach, guided by three basic conditions: relationships, competence, and autonomy. The school emphasises social skills development and group belonging, including lunchtime activities as part of the educational program. The high staff-to-student ratio enables staff to build trusting relationships and tailor support to individual needs. Therapeutic interventions such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, sensory integration are available to support mental well-being. Individual Education Plans track progress toward social and learning goals, with regular review and adjustment to support students' well-being.	Mental wellbeing The wellbeing programme centers on physical health, social development, and emotional resilience. A safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment supports students' mental wellbeing. The Health, Advisory and Physical Education (HAPE) curriculum teaches students how to manage their emotional wellbeing as part of overall health. The Learning Support Department includes a social and emotional coach and an onsite school nurse to support mental wellbeing. The school's EAL team helps students transition emotionally as they acquire English.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The health and safety of the children are of highest importance. The school maintains a Child Protection Statement and HSV-wide Child Protection Policy, with an Intimate Care Policy for Lighthouse. All staff, interns and volunteers are required to provide a Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag (Good Conduct) before working. The school provides a Confidential Advisor and an External Confidential Advisor, as well as the National Confidential Advisor for complaints about education. For safeguarding concerns, contact details are available through the Confidential Advisor and External Confidential Advisor.	Safeguarding Rigorous background screening is performed for staff. Criminal record checks are conducted. A comprehensive safeguarding policy keeps students safe at school.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Since 2000 Lighthouse Special Education provides a safe and structured learning environment for children with complex special educational needs. The school is the only international special primary school in The Netherlands offering education in English. Education is individualised for children aged 3-13, with two classes: younger (5-8) and older (8-13), each with a maximum of eight pupils and taught by a teacher and a teaching assistant. An inclusive preschool class called Three Little Ships serves children aged 2.5 to 5. The staff includes a secretary, a concierge, and volunteers who support the children at lunchtime. Therapies are provided on-site by English-speaking, internationally qualified therapists, including speech and language therapy, physiotherapy, sensory integration therapy and occupational therapy.	Facilities overview Dedicated early years area with two playgrounds, open natural spaces, and bright, airy classrooms. Specialist music rooms. Ultra-modern STEAM Maker Space. Well-equipped science labs. World-class indoor and outdoor sports facilities. 91% of parents say our school provides fantastic learning spaces.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities Three modern adventure playgrounds with top-of-the-range equipment. Access to a multi-sport all-weather pitch. Large sports hall with a full-size basketball court. Access to hockey and rugby pitches, and a local swimming pool.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Education is conducted in English for children aged 3-13. Two classes operate: younger (5-8) and older (8-13), each with up to eight pupils and staffed by a teacher and a teaching assistant. An inclusive preschool class called Three Little Ships serves children aged 2.5 to 5. Therapies are provided on-site by English-speaking, internationally qualified therapists, including speech and language therapy, physiotherapy, sensory integration therapy and occupational therapy. A secretary, a concierge and volunteers support the school day, including lunchtime.	Academic facilities Imaginatively designed early years and primary spaces support learning. Technology-enriched classrooms and labs equip students with digital tools. A STEAM Maker Space and science labs support hands-on inquiry. A library stocked with an extensive collection of books and dedicated art studios. A soundproofed music room supports performing arts.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities —	Extra curricular facilities Exceptional experiences, clubs, and collaborations beyond the classroom. Field trips broaden horizons, from Venice art and culture to Rotterdam architecture and waterways. After-school activities include football, dance, or yoga clubs. Students can learn an instrument. An eco club offers opportunities to make a difference. Collaborations with UNICEF enrich projects and global awareness.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Since 2000, Lighthouse Special Education has provided a safe and structured learning environment for children with complex special educational needs. It is the Netherlands' only international Special Primary School offering education in English. The school serves children aged 3-13 in two classes (ages 5-8 and 8-13), each class with up to eight students and staffed by a teacher and a teaching assistant. An inclusive preschool class, Three Little Ships, provides an early intervention program for 2.5 to 5-year-olds.	History Founded in 1959, the school opened in Rotterdam with 15 English-speaking students and one teacher. An influx of American military and expatriate families contributed to growth, and today the international community includes more than 230 students from over 35 countries. In 1982, it became the first European school accredited by the European Council of International Schools, and in 1995 the current campus opened, inaugurated by Crown Prince Willem-Alexander. The class of 1999 was the first to study the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and in 2021 the IBDP average score was 36.9, the best in the school's history. The school joined Nord Anglia Education in 2018, expanding opportunities through global collaborations and technology.
Community	Community Children come from international families temporarily based in The Netherlands, with diverse mother tongue languages, and everyone learns English at school. The staff have extensive experience in working with children with complex learning challenges, and many hold specialist qualifications. A secretary, a concierge, and a group of volunteers support the school, including lunchtime volunteers. In addition to the day classes, the inclusive Three Little Ships preschool provides early intervention for ages 2.5 to 5.	Community NAISR is an international community with students from over 35 countries. The school joined Nord Anglia Education in 2018, gaining access to global collaborations with MIT and UNICEF and to the Global Campus learning platform. Classes are small and personalised within the IBDP or NAISR High School Diploma framework, with 2021 results showing 30% of students scoring 40+ in the IBDP and all graduates gaining admission to their first-choice universities. The Parents, Teachers and Students Association (PTSA) organises family events throughout the year, including weekly BootCamp, Dutch conversation groups, a book club, community barbecues, and wine tastings.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association The PTSA (Parents, Teachers and Students Association) at NAISR is active in school life and organizes family events throughout the year. Activities include weekly BootCamp, Dutch conversation groups, a book club, community barbecues, and wine tastings. The PTSA strengthens connections among families, students and staff and supports school initiatives.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Students follow an individualized curriculum with a strong emphasis on developing communication and social skills. They learn to cope in a school setting, including sustaining attention, following instructions, completing tasks, and working independently. The 5–13 year-old curriculum focuses on basic skills in communication, reading, spelling, language and maths, based on the English National Curriculum and the International Primary Curriculum (UK), cross-referenced with Dutch Primary Education outcomes. Edmark Reading Program and Numicon support literacy and numeracy; each student uses an iPad configured to access appropriate apps. Progress is tracked through Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) that are reviewed twice yearly to adjust goals.	Academic & intellectual NAISR follows international curriculum pathways from early years to secondary. The primary curriculum is the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and the middle years use the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). In upper secondary, students choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the NAISR High School Diploma, with a bilingual qualification option; from August 2025 the school also offers the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) in partnership with SUMAS. The Global Campus platform and world-class collaborations with MIT and UNICEF enrich learning beyond the classroom.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Art and music activities occur throughout the week to reinforce language skills, creativity and motor development. A monthly theme guides activities, with art and music supporting language, creativity and motor skills, and there are special trips and dress-up days linked to the theme. Cultural activities include trips to museums and visits by musicians. Dutch cultural days such as Sinterklaas, Christmas and King's Day are celebrated at school.	Arts & creative The Juilliard School collaborates with NAISR to enrich performing arts, including dance, drama and music. Students can participate in bands, orchestras, or choirs and engage with arts and design activities. STEAM and maker-space facilities support creative projects, with a broad offering of arts and crafts, music, and performance-based clubs after school.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The curriculum aligns with the English National Curriculum and the International Primary Curriculum (UK), cross-referenced with Dutch Primary Education outcomes to support language learning. Language development is a central focus across the program. Dutch cultural days such as Sinterklaas, Christmas and King's Day are celebrated at school.	Cultural & language English and Dutch are taught in primary, and English, Dutch, and Spanish are taught in secondary. The school hosts an international community with learners from more than 35 countries, contributing to a multilingual and multicultural environment.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Play is built into the daily routine to support social and emotional development, with circle time and reading together. Outside Playtime is organized with students from the HSV International Department, promoting social interaction across the wider school community. The program emphasizes socio-emotional and physical development through topic-based learning and related activities.	Social & hobbies NAISR provides a broad spectrum of after-school clubs and activities, spanning sports, arts, music, and STEAM. STEAM clubs include Lego bricks challenges, Ninja Maths, and Mad Science, with dedicated spaces for experimentation. Leadership and debate opportunities are available through activities like Student Council and Model United Nations, alongside ongoing musicianship and performance-based pursuits.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service The social purpose is central to life at NAISR, with a kindness club and fundraising for charities such as WWF and Pink Ribbon. Students engage with UNICEF to explore global issues and participate in service projects, including Model United Nations experiences that foster civic responsibility.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Students can take on leadership roles through the Student Council and Model United Nations, developing organisation, public speaking, and teamwork skills. The school also provides a University Counselling Service to guide students through higher-education applications and future pathways.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Well-being is supported through a focus on socio-emotional and physical development, including daily outside playtime. High-quality therapies are available at the school by internationally qualified professionals in private practice, with families able to arrange specific therapists directly. Therapies include Speech and Language therapy, Occupational and Psychological therapy, and Play therapy.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is a priority, with a Core Values Programme embedded in daily life and a pastoral care team that includes trained teachers, a nurse, and safeguarding specialists. The Global Campus resources support students' mental and physical health, resilience, and healthy development as part of a holistic approach to schooling.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The curriculum is based on the English National Curriculum and the International Primary Curriculum (UK), cross referenced with the Dutch Primary Education Curriculum.	Language provision English is the main language of instruction at NAISR, with all students studying a second modern language daily. Native language instruction is provided in Dutch, and foreign language instruction includes Dutch and Spanish. In Years 12–13, IB Language A is offered in English, Dutch, or a self-taught option, while IB Language B is offered in English, Dutch, and Spanish. Our goal is for students to become literate in at least two languages.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Submit the Application and Required Documentation: To begin the process, parents need to submit a completed application form alongside a copy of the child’s passport, recent school reports, and proof of eligibility, such as a letter from an employer or a temporary employment contract. It is important to provide detailed information about the child’s learning needs, including copies of any assessments from the past two years conducted by psychologists, physiotherapists, or speech therapists. Parents should ensure that all reports and assessments are fully translated into English prior to submission. 2. Attend an Initial Meeting: Once the application and documents are received, the Director will reach out to parents to schedule a meeting to discuss the application. Following this meeting and a subsequent discussion with the Pupil Monitoring Co-ordinator, the school will determine if Lighthouse is a viable option for the child. This step allows both the parents and the school staff to clarify the child's specific needs and the school's capacity to support them. 3. Consent to Information Exchange and Further Assessments: Before making a final admissions decision, Lighthouse staff may need to consult with the child’s current school or therapists to gather more context. Parents will be asked to sign a consent form agreeing to this exchange of information with outside professionals. In some cases, the Lighthouse Assessment Team may require additional assessments to be completed; parents should be aware that these specific assessments incur separate fees. 4. Obtain a Statement of Eligibility: Because admissions comply with Dutch law for Tailored Education (Passend Onderwijs), every child must receive a formal Statement of Eligibility (Toelatingsverklaring) from the local Dutch Education Board in their residential district. Lighthouse staff will assist parents directly with the application for this statement. It is a mandatory legal requirement before the child can officially start at the school.	Admissions 1. Make an Enquiry Begin by filling out the online enquiry form. The admissions team usually responds within 24 hours to verify available spots, as the school accepts students year-round based on capacity. This is the time to ask initial questions about your child's specific situation. 2. Take a Tour of the Campus You can schedule an in-person visit to view the facilities if you are in Rotterdam. For families relocating from abroad, the school offers personalized virtual meetings or online open days so you can explore the campus remotely. 3. Submit the Application and Documents Complete the online application and upload the required documents, including your child's passport and English-translated school reports (two years for Years 1-12; three years for Year 13). The admissions team will contact your child's current teacher directly for a recommendation form. 4. Complete the Interview and Assessment The school will schedule a brief interview with you and your child, either on-campus or via video call. Depending on age, language proficiency, and academic background, your child may also need to take a test to ensure the school can meet their learning needs. 5. Finalize the Placement Offer If successful, the school will offer your child a place and confirm their year group. Placements are based on the child's age as of September 1st and their academic review. You finalize enrollment by accepting the offer and completing the registration paperwork. 6. Prepare for the First Day The school will send materials to help you prepare for the transition. Students starting in August attend a new student induction day to meet teachers and classmates, while mid-year joiners receive direct guidance from staff to settle into their classes.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships NAISR offers an Academic Scholarship Programme for students aged 15–18 (Years 11–13). Eligibility requires academic excellence, creativity and personal initiative, involvement in a range of extra‑curricular activities, and a strong regard from current school staff. Scholarships are awarded to top candidates who can meet the demands of the curriculum and contribute to school life, with recipients required to maintain high achievement and engagement. To apply: download the scholarship application form, write a 400‑word motivation letter addressed to the Director and the Director of Admissions and Marketing, and collect school reports from the past three years; deadlines are 15 April for internal candidates and 1 November or 15 April for prospective/ external candidates; email all materials to scholarships@naisr.nl. After submission, you'll receive an automatic acknowledgement; the academic team reviews documents and references, with internal reviews in April/May and external reviews in November (for a January start) and in April/May (for an August start); the top five finalists are invited to an interview and outcomes are communicated within three working days. If successful, the admissions team guides you through the remaining steps. Documentation is kept for up to 12 months in compliance with GDPR. A downloadable Scholarship Form is available on the page.
Waitlist	Waitlist The Lighthouse Special Education website does not specify the operation of a formal waitlist or applicant pool system. The policy states that children between the ages of 5 and 12 may be admitted at any point during the school year, strictly subject to the current availability of places. For the separate Three Little Ships Early Intervention program, admissions priority is specifically given to children who turn three years old before October 1st of that academic year.	Waitlist —
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