International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm

"International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm, located in Hilversum in the Netherlands, is a public international school that has been serving the global community since its founding in 1982."

With more than four decades of experience educating internationally mobile students, the school has established itself as a well-rooted institution within the Dutch educational landscape, offering a rigorous and internationally recognized academic pathway from the early years through to university preparation. The school follows the full continuum of International Baccalaureate programmes, offering the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme, and the Diploma Programme. This seamless IB pathway means that students can progress through their entire school career within a single, coherent educational philosophy — one that emphasizes inquiry-based learning, intercultural understanding, and the development of principled, reflective young people. For families relocating to the Netherlands, the continuity of the IB framework also makes transitions smoother, whether a child is arriving from or eventually moving on to another IB school elsewhere in the world. Instruction at International School Hilversum is conducted entirely in English, making it an accessible choice for expat families and internationally mobile professionals whose children may not yet speak Dutch. At the same time, being situated in the Netherlands provides students with natural exposure to Dutch language and culture, enriching the broader international experience the school aims to provide. Hilversum itself is a pleasant, leafy city located in the heart of the Netherlands, roughly 30 kilometers southeast of Amsterdam. It is well connected by public transport to the capital and to Utrecht, making it a practical base for families working in the broader Amsterdam metropolitan region. The city has a relaxed, suburban character with green surroundings and a strong sense of community, which complements the school's environment well. As a public institution, International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm occupies a distinctive position among international schools in the Netherlands. Unlike many international schools that operate as private, fee-dependent entities, its public status reflects a commitment to accessibility and integration within the Dutch system. The Alberdingk Thijm name connects the school to a broader Dutch educational tradition, grounding it in local history even as it serves a globally diverse student body. For expat families evaluating their options in the Netherlands, International School Hilversum offers a compelling combination: the credibility and global portability of the full IB continuum, a fully English-language learning environment, a stable and experienced institution with roots going back to 1982, and a location in one of the more livable and well-connected smaller cities in the country. Families looking for a school that balances international academic standards with a genuine sense of place and community will find much to appreciate here.