The Only Dutch-Language Primary School in Spain: Discover the Nederlandstalige School Madrid

Spain is home to a wide range of international schools, including British, French and American schools. But what if you want your child to continue learning in Dutch while growing up in a Spanish-speaking environment?

For families looking for a Dutch-language primary education, the Nederlandstalige School Madrid, also known as Colegio Neerlandés, is a distinctive option.

A Dutch-language school in the heart of Spain

Located in Madrid, the Nederlandstalige School Madrid has been providing education since 1964. It was established by Dutch-speaking families who wanted their children to maintain a strong foundation in their own language while living in Spain.

Today, the school caters to children aged approximately 3 to 12 and follows the Dutch educational system. It describes itself as the only Dutch-language primary school in Spain.

For Dutch and Belgian families, this can offer an important connection to their language, culture and educational background while living abroad.

Learning in Dutch, Spanish and English

One of the school's defining features is its multilingual approach. Teaching is provided in Dutch and Spanish, with English also playing an important role.

This combination can be particularly valuable for children growing up in multilingual families. They can continue developing their Dutch while learning the language of their host country and building their English skills.

The school also aims to make the transition to further education in the Netherlands, Spain or an English-language setting easier.

A small-scale approach to learning

The school emphasises individual attention and allowing children to develop at their own pace. Its educational approach includes encouraging independence and responsibility, alongside social-emotional and creative development.

A smaller school environment may appeal to families who value close relationships between pupils, teachers and parents. The school also highlights open communication with parents and a welcoming, family-like atmosphere.

As with any school, it's worth visiting in person and asking how these principles are reflected in everyday classroom life.

Who might benefit from a Dutch-language school?

The Nederlandstalige School Madrid may be worth exploring if:

• Your family speaks Dutch at home and you want your child to continue learning in Dutch.
• You expect to move back to the Netherlands or Belgium in the future.
• You want your child to develop Spanish while maintaining a strong connection to Dutch.
• You are looking for an alternative to a Spanish or international school.

If your child attends a Spanish or international day school elsewhere in Madrid, supplementary Dutch-language education may also be an option. For example, NTC Madrid provides Dutch and Flemish language and culture lessons alongside children's regular schooling.

Questions to ask before choosing a school

Before making a decision, consider asking about the curriculum, class sizes, language balance, admissions process, fees and options for continuing education after primary school. If your family may relocate again, it is also useful to discuss how the school supports transitions into other education systems.

The right choice will depend on your child's language level, your family's plans and the learning environment in which your child feels most comfortable.

Keeping a connection to home while building a life in Spain

For Dutch-speaking families, choosing a school abroad can be about more than academic results. It can also mean maintaining language, culture and a sense of belonging while giving children the opportunity to grow up in a new country.

The Nederlandstalige School Madrid offers one route for families who want to combine Dutch-language primary education with life in Spain.

Are you considering a school in Spain? Explore school profiles and parent experiences on ColegioCheck to help you ask the right questions and make a more informed decision.

ColegioCheck helps parents explore schools in Spain through school information and family experiences. Always contact a school directly to confirm its current curriculum, admissions criteria and fees.