Dutch Enrichment Programme (DEP)

EMPOWERING STUDENTS FOR A SEAMLESS TRANSITION INTO DUTCH SOCIETY AND EDUCATIONÂ
Recognizing the diverse paths our students may take, especially those seeking to integrate further into Dutch society, we offer the  Dutch Enrichment Programme (DEP) in our upper primary, as an optional pathway.
This programme is designed for students who wish to enhance their academic Dutch proficiency while continuing to benefit from our international curriculum.
The DEP aims to provide a smoother transition to secondary education in the Netherlands, offering a unique Dutch language learning experience that opens doors to future opportunities.
In summary OIS offers two programmes which can be considered as two learning pathways:
- ³Ù³ó±ðÌý International Programme running from group 1 – 7. This prepares for international secondary education starting at the age of 11. Most learning is in English and approximately 15% in Dutch to allow students to integrate in Dutch society
- the Dutch Enrichment Programme (DEP), an alternative additional programme for our upper primary running from group 6 – 8. This prepares for secondary education in the Netherlands starting at the age of 12. Learning is in English and Dutch, gradually more Dutch is added with an academic focus
KEY FEATURES OF THE DEPÂ
- Academic Dutch Proficiency: Academic and Dutch language conventions are taught explicitly to enable the students to become more proficient in their understanding and use of the language, setting a strong foundation for success in Dutch secondary education and beyond.
- Tailored Curriculum: Integrating age-appropriate International Primary Curriculum units with focused Dutch language studies, ensuring students are challenged academically and prepared for future educational endeavours.
- Progressive Language Immersion: Classes are taught in both English and in Dutch, with the language of Dutch increasing, tackling more complex aspects of the language as the child continues throughout the programme.
- Enhanced Cognitive and Social Skills: Students will have opportunities to further develop executive functions, essential mental skills for secondary education and beyond. They help students to plan, focus, juggle multiple tasks, stay focused on a task, develop healthy habits, social relationships and self-esteem.
- Supportive Learning Environment: With small class sizes and personalized attention, we meet each student’s learning needs, promoting confidence and excellence.
- Experienced multilingual learning specialists: Led by experienced multilingual learning specialists dedicated to nurturing Dutch language proficiency and ensuring a language friendly supportive learning environment.
WHY CHOOSE THE DEP?Â
Choosing for the DEP, at 91ÉçÇø, offers your child a chance to thrive academically and culturally within the Dutch setting, alongside the advantages of an international education framework. This program is well-suited for families planning to stay in the Netherlands longer-term and considering future Dutch education, or who wish to equip their children with advanced multilingual skills.

FLEXIBILITY AND CHOICEÂ
At OIS, we value the importance of choice, offering families the option to select between our enriching International Programme and the specialised DEP. Our commitment lies in supporting every student’s journey towards academic achievement, cultural integration, and personal growth.
Frequently asked questions
Explore our FAQs below for insights into the DEP. For more details about the programme, selection criteria, and secondary transition processes, please refer to our comprehensive guide by clicking the FAQ button below.
From which group does the DEP start
- The DEP is offered to students in Groups 6, 7 and 8. In Groups 1 – 5 we are laying a foundation with an offer of approximately 15% of lesson time spent on Dutch language learning. In all Groups 1 – 5 and Groups 6 – 7 of the international programme the focus will be on oral language, social language and some academic language.
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