Languages Taught

As a community of learners, Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam promotes the opportunity to become multilingual and demonstrate international mindedness. 

We believe the learning of language is fundamental to students’ intellectual, personal and social
development. We believe students should:

• learn English to a level required for academic success
• maintain and develop their native language
• develop their international awareness and genuine respect for perspectives different from their own

Our student body draws from a community of international families. Many of them live in Rotterdam for relatively short periods of time. 

Our approach enables students to pursue a broader spectrum of opportunities while they are in Rotterdam. It also eases any potential return to their home country’s education system.

We are excited about our modern languages program. All students have the opportunity to study a second language on a daily basis. 

Native Language Instruction

Native level language instruction benefits a student’s emotional wellbeing. It also enhances their ability to acquire additional languages. This contributes to academic success and readiness for future opportunities.

We define a native language as:

• the language(s) of communication a student generally uses in his/her family
• the language(s) the student feels most comfortable with, and in which he/she
• intuitively and correctly describes the world and his/her emotions.
• the language(s) that ties a student to his/her cultural identity(ies).

In practice, this means:

• the school works with parents to foster the best environment for language learning
• we recognize that a great deal of language learning takes place at home
• all teachers consider themselves language teachers as well as subject teachers
• students receive opportunities, wherever possible, to continually develop their Native language

English is the main language of instruction at Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam. However, we strive to ensure all of our students become literate in at least two languages. 

Modern Language Classes 

Our school commits to developing every student’s appreciation of other languages and cultures. We prepare them to pursue educational and career mobility throughout the world. Learning a second language, learning about language and learning through language are central to achieving that.

The ability to empathize with people from other cultures is a core communication skill in the modern world. Developing their language abilities also develops a stronger sense of the learner’s own identity.

Early Learning and Elementary (PK1-5)

• The modern language classes meet for 45 minutes daily

Middle School (Grades 6-8)

• The modern language classes meet for 45 minutes daily
• Native level language instruction is offered in Dutch
• Foreign level language instruction is offered in Dutch and Spanish

High School (Grades 9-12)

• In order to graduate from our school, students must complete at least three years of the same language in High School.

Grades 9 and 10

• Native level language instruction is offered in Dutch
• Foreign level language instruction is offered in Dutch and Spanish

Grades 11 and 12

For the IB diploma program, students should have completed three years of one language by the end of grade 10 in order to study the same language at the IB level.

At IB level, native level language instruction (IB Language A) is offered in the following languages:

• Dutch
• Self-taught option (the IB Coordinator will help to find a suitable tutor)

English is also taught as an IB Language A offering.

At IB level, foreign level language instruction (IB Language B) is offered in the following languages:

• Dutch 
• Spanish

Language ab initio, which forms part of the IB Diploma, is offered in Spanish.

If you have any further questions, please contact:

• Mrs. Marga Akerboom, Head of Modern Languages, marga.akerboom@naisr.nl
• Ms. Eva Tarrason, IB Coordinator, eva.tarrason@naisr.nl