basisschool

Basisschool is the first stage of formal education in Dutch-speaking regions, notably the Netherlands and the Flemish part of Belgium. It covers the early years of schooling and aims to develop literacy, numeracy, social skills, and foundational knowledge across core subjects, preparing pupils for secondary education and lifelong learning.

In the Netherlands, basisschool comprises eight groups (group 1 to group 8). Pupils typically start around age four or five and finish around age twelve. The curriculum includes Dutch, mathematics, world orientation, science, arts and culture, physical education, and digital literacy. Schools may be public or special (denominational) and are guided by national core objectives that specify what students should learn in each group.

In Flanders, basisschool covers six years, from 1e leerjaar to 6e leerjaar, usually for children aged about six to twelve. The program includes Dutch, a second language (often French or English), mathematics, science, geography and history, arts, and physical education. Schools are funded by the Flemish government and can be public or denominational within the official framework.

At the end of basisschool, learners transition to secondary education (voortgezet onderwijs in the Netherlands, secundair onderwijs in Belgium). Admissions are typically based on school reports and, where applicable, assessments rather than a single national exam.

Basisschool also emphasizes inclusive education, social-emotional development, and learning-to-learn skills, with support structures for students who need extra help. This article describes the primary schooling phase as it is practiced in Dutch-speaking regions.