The Amstelveen region is becoming increasingly international. We also see this reflected at the Hermann Wesselink College. Pupils from different cultural backgrounds and languages enrich our school and align with our ambition to train young people to become global citizens.

Five years ago, we therefore started the International Crossover Class (ICC). This transition class was intended for pupils from international primary education who could not yet progress to an international secondary school or for whom the transition to a Dutch bridging class was still too large. With a combination of international education and extra attention to the Dutch language, we prepared them for further education in Dutch or international education.

In practice, the need turned out to be greater than a one-year programme. Parents and pupils sought an affordable international secondary education pathway, building on primary international education. Therefore, the Hermann Wesselink College and the Amstelland International School jointly developed the International Oriented Secondary Education (IGVO). This new educational offering will start in August at the HWC and will replace the International Crossover Class.

Within the IGVO, pupils work with the internationally recognised IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum). Inquiry-based learning, critical thinking and making connections between subject areas are central. Pupils apply their knowledge to real-world issues and develop themselves in an international learning environment.

Next academic year, we will be starting with one Year 7 class (IMYC 1). The pupils will receive their education at the Hermann Wesselink College and will be fully integrated into our school community. With this new educational pathway, we are offering international pupils in the region a suitable next step and strengthening the international character of our school.

Look at the Amstelland International School website for more information.