Elementary Child
Compulsory education begins when children turn 5, but most children start elementary school when they are 4. Compulsory education means that children aged 5 through 18 must complete elementary school and continue their education until they have earned their basic qualification. You are free to choose which elementary school to enroll your child in.
Compulsory education
Compulsory education means that children aged 5 through 18 must complete elementary school and continue their education until they have earned a basic qualification. A basic qualification is a diploma at the HAVO, VWO, or MBO Level 2 level or higher.
You are required to send your child to school. Schools must verify that all students are present. Unauthorized absences (keeping your child home without a valid reason) are a criminal offense. In such cases, the school must notify the municipal truancy officer. You can find more information about compulsory education on the website of the Rijksoverheid. You can also find information on the website “Opvoeden”.
Reception
Do you and your partner both work? If so, you may need childcare for your child. Your child can attend after-school care, a child care provider’s home, or a regular babysitter. See Childcare for more information.
Pupil Transport
Pupil transport is transportation to and from school for children who cannot go to school by themselves. Pupil transport is for children who attend (special) primary education or (special) secondary education. But only if they cannot go to school by themselves due to their disability.
You apply for pupil transportation at the municipality's CMD. You can read more about it at Pupil Transport.