Curriculum

At the Groningse Schoolvereniging, we offer a bilingual program in which Dutch is the primary language of instruction and approximately 30% of lessons are taught in English. Through this bilingual education, we prepare our students for an increasingly international society, while maintaining a strong foundation in Dutch.

In the lower groups, the focus of the English lessons is mainly on vocabulary and communication in English. From Group 4 onwards, reading and writing in English are also introduced. In addition, subjects such as music, physical education, and ICT are partly taught in English. The program is designed to match the level and needs of all students, including children who already speak English well, as well as new students who may require extra support.

At GSV, we use an integrated approach to the core subject areas (world orientation) through the IPC (International Primary Curriculum) program. The International Primary Curriculum is a comprehensive, thematic, and creative curriculum for students aged 4 to 12. It is based on a clear learning process with specific learning goals for each subject area. IPC is designed to help teachers make lessons as engaging, active, and meaningful as possible for students. The IPC curriculum also provides an international perspective. It helps children make connections between what they learn and how it can be applied in their own country, while also exploring the perspectives of people in other countries.

In addition to lessons from their classroom teacher, pupils are also taught by specialist teachers in subjects such as physical education, music, and English. This allows our students to learn from enthusiastic experts who teach their subject with passion. It enriches the learning experience and strengthens overall quality.

Part of the English instruction is provided by specialist teachers who are native or near-native speakers. They play an important role in developing the curriculum and organizing the bilingual program. Classroom teachers also receive continuous training in teaching English, ensuring that the quality of bilingual education remains at a high level.

At the Groningse Schoolvereniging, we believe it is important for pupils to learn to work independently and take responsibility for their own learning process. From Group 3 onwards, children work on individual tasks that they plan and complete themselves—sometimes independently, sometimes in pairs, or in small groups. This approach helps them discover and develop their own pace and learning style.

To further encourage independence, pupils gradually begin receiving homework from Group 6 onwards. Homework not only helps them practise skills, but also supports planning, organization, and the development of study skills such as concentration and task focus. In this way, we prepare them for secondary education and help them build important skills for the future.

In the youngest year groups, we encourage learning through doing, using play-based learning areas where different developmental skills are supported. The teacher observes and guides the children, allowing each child to grow at their own pace.