Laar and Berg

"Laar and Berg is a public secondary school located in Laren, a quiet and leafy municipality in the Netherlands known for its village character and proximity to Amsterdam and the broader Gooi region."

The school serves students in the Dutch secondary education system while also offering internationally recognized programming, making it a noteworthy option for families who value both local integration and global academic credentials. Founded in 2003, Laar and Berg is a relatively young institution that has established itself within the Dutch public school landscape. As a public school, it operates within the Netherlands' well-regarded national education framework, which is recognized for its emphasis on student well-being, independent thinking, and holistic development. Families relocating to the area can take some reassurance from the school's public status, which reflects accountability to local educational authorities and community standards. One of the school's most distinctive features for internationally mobile families is its authorization to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, commonly known as the IB DP. Designed for students typically in the final two years of secondary school, the IB Diploma is a globally recognized qualification that facilitates university admissions across the world, including in North America, the United Kingdom, Australia, and throughout Europe. For expat families who anticipate further relocations or whose children aspire to study at international universities, the presence of the IB DP at a public school is a particularly valuable and relatively uncommon combination in the Netherlands. The school is situated in Laren, which sits within the Het Gooi area — a region characterized by green landscapes, a degree of affluence, and a mix of Dutch families and international residents who are drawn to the area's natural surroundings while remaining within commuting distance of Amsterdam. This setting gives Laar and Berg a community feel that differs markedly from larger urban schools, and families seeking a less hectic environment without sacrificing academic quality may find the location appealing. Instruction at Laar and Berg primarily takes place in Dutch, consistent with its identity as a Dutch public school. Families considering enrollment should be aware that a working knowledge of Dutch, or a willingness to acquire it, will be beneficial for day-to-day school life. The IB Diploma Programme, however, is delivered with an international dimension and may incorporate English-language instruction and assessments in line with IB standards, offering a degree of linguistic accessibility for students with strong English backgrounds. For expat and internationally minded families settling in the Laren or broader Gooi area, Laar and Berg presents a distinctive proposition: a publicly funded school that combines the structure of the Dutch educational system with the internationally portable credential of the IB Diploma. Its founding in 2003 means it has had over two decades to develop its programs and community, and its location in one of the Netherlands' more picturesque and livable regions adds to its appeal for families prioritizing both quality of life and academic opportunity.