Natuurgericht

Natuurgericht is a Dutch term meaning nature-oriented or nature-based. It is used to describe a focus on natural sciences and related disciplines, as well as an emphasis on nature and the environment in education and policy.

In the context of Dutch secondary education, natuurgericht refers to profiles or tracks that prioritize science, mathematics, and technology. Students on a natuurgericht path typically study subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and computer science, with the aim of preparing for higher education and careers in STEM fields. The concept is associated with profiles that emphasize science and technology, and it is common for schools to offer variants or names that reflect this orientation, such as Natuur & Techniek (NT) and Natuur & Gezondheid (NG). The exact naming and structure can vary by school and program level, but the underlying idea remains the same: a science- and technology-focused education.

Beyond formal schooling, natuurgericht can describe approaches in policy, curricula, or activities that prioritize ecological literacy, sustainability, and an understanding of the natural world. It can also refer more generally to individuals or organizations that prefer nature-centric or science-oriented perspectives and practices, including outdoor learning and data-driven study of natural phenomena. Overall, the term conveys a commitment to nature-informed reasoning, empirical methods, and the exploration of natural sciences.