What does ‘FTE’ mean?

FTE stands for full-time equivalent. It is a unit used to express the size of a contract. An FTE of 1.0 represents a full working week. For example, a position of 0.4 FTE equals 0.4 × 40 hours = 16 hours per week, which usually corresponds to two working days.

I obtained my teaching qualification abroad. Can I work as a teacher in the Netherlands?

Having obtained a teaching qualification abroad does not automatically mean you are allowed to work as a teacher in the Netherlands. Your foreign qualification must first be officially recognised. The Dutch organisation DUO assesses your qualification and informs you whether it allows you to teach in the Netherlands.

What is the salary of a teacher in secondary vocational education (MBO)?

Salaries in secondary vocational education (MBO) are laid down in the collective labour agreement (CAO) for vocational education. Under the current CAO, gross monthly salaries range from €3,431 to €7,024. The exact salary depends on factors such as teaching experience, qualifications, and job scale.

What is the salary of a primary school teacher in the Netherlands?

Salaries for teachers in primary education are laid down in the collective labour agreement (CAO) for primary education. Under the current CAO, gross monthly salaries range from €3,463 to €7,710 per month. Where you fall within this range depends on your experience, qualifications, and job scale.

What is the salary of a secondary school teacher in the Netherlands?

Salaries for teachers in secondary education are laid down in the collective labour agreement (CAO) for secondary education. Under the current CAO, gross monthly salaries range from €3,436 to €7,710. The exact salary depends on factors such as experience, qualifications, and job scale.

Working in education in the Netherlands

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What does working in Dutch education involve?

Working in Dutch education can differ significantly from what you may be used to in other countries. The education system is divided into several sectors, each with its own requirements. These depend on the role you are aiming for, your educational background, and whether you already have teaching experience. On this page, we outline the key topics that are especially relevant if you are considering working in education in the Netherlands.

Education sectors

Education in the Netherlands is divided into distinct sectors, such as primary, secondary, vocational and higher education. Each sector has its own structure, requirements and teaching roles.

Teaching roles

Besides teachers, Dutch schools employ teaching assistants, instructors and other educational support staff. The responsibilities and qualification requirements differ per role and sector.

Qualifications and certification

If you obtained a teaching qualification abroad, it usually needs to be assessed or certified before you can work in Dutch education. The required steps depend on the sector and your background.

Language requirements

Dutch language requirements vary by education sector and type of school. In some cases Dutch is mandatory, while in others English may be sufficient.

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How can I become a teaching assistant in the Netherlands?

There are no legal qualification requirements to work as a classroom assistant, educational assistant or teaching assistant. However, there are various training opportunities.

Onderwijsondersteunend personeelBuitenland

Which teaching qualifications are there in the Netherlands?

The Dutch educational system distinguishes three official teaching qualifications: a primary education qualification, a second degree qualification and a first degree qualification. Important terms to become familiar with are: qualified, competent and appointable.

BuitenlandOnderwijssysteemBevoegdheden

How can I become a teacher at a bilingual school in the Netherlands?

For teachers in bilingual education, the same criteria apply as for teachers at other secondary schools: you will need to possess a second or first degree teaching qualification. Additionally, bilingual school teachers must also have sufficient command of the English language.

BuitenlandMiddelbare school

Do I have to speak Dutch to become a teacher in the Netherlands?

Depending on the sector in which you want to teach and where you obtained your teaching qualification, you must be able to demonstrate your command of the Dutch language.

Buitenland

How is the Dutch education system structured?

The Dutch education system consists of 18 levels, starting with regular primary education, special needs primary education and special needs education. After primary education, there are seven forms of secondary education, followed by three forms of post-secondary education. The highest degree in the education system is a PhD.

BuitenlandOnderwijssysteem

How can I become a teacher in the Netherlands with a foreign teaching qualification?

In some cases it is possible to teach in the Netherlands with a foreign teaching qualification. Your qualification must first be recognized by DUO, and often you will have to meet certain language requirements.

BuitenlandOnderwijssysteemWetgevingBevoegdheden

How do I become a teacher in the Netherlands?

The steps you need to take to become a teacher in the Netherlands depend on whether or not you already have a foreign teaching qualification.