Newcomers in Amsterdam

Feeling at Home in the Dutch Classroom

Moving to a new country often means adjusting to a new language as well as a different school system. Many newcomer students first attend a newcomers’ class before moving into mainstream Dutch primary education. That transition can be challenging, especially when language starts to affect almost every subject.

Reading comprehension is only part of the challenge. Spelling, vocabulary and word problems in maths all depend on a strong understanding of Dutch. A child may understand how to solve a calculation, for example, but still struggle because the wording of the question is unfamiliar.

Practising at home is not always easy either. Parents who have only recently moved to the Netherlands may still be learning the language themselves, making it difficult to support schoolwork in Dutch. At Klasroom in Amsterdam, we provide tutoring for newcomers in groups 4 to 8, helping children strengthen their Dutch and become more confident in the classroom.

Growing in Language and Confidence

Every student starts with an initial assessment. During this first session, we look at what is already going well and where additional support may be helpful. Depending on the child, this may include reading comprehension, spelling, vocabulary or understanding Dutch-language maths problems.

Based on this assessment, we create a personal learning plan. Our tutoring is adapted to the student’s level and individual needs. One child may benefit from additional reading and vocabulary practice, while another may need more support with spelling, instructions or word problems.

Step by step, students build a stronger foundation in Dutch and become more independent at school. The aim is for children to participate confidently in mainstream education after their newcomers’ class and to feel increasingly comfortable with their schoolwork.

Tutoring can take place at Klasroom in Amsterdam or, by arrangement, at home.