Learn the 5 signs of quality

With so many different schools to choose from, how can you decide if an international school offers a quality education for your children? Rebecca Hazlett from British School in the Netherlands shares five signs to watch out for.

There are more than 50 international schools in the Netherlands alone, and this number will increase in the coming years. While these schools vary in size, curricula, and governance models, assessing their quality can be challenging, especially from an outsider’s perspective.

Most schools present themselves positively through websites, publications and social media, particularly during the inquiry process, which often includes school tours. So how can you spot exceptional quality before you hire? These five pointers, which require only minimal research, will guide you.

What does quality mean?

Exam results are undoubtedly an important measure of high quality teaching and learning, but they do not tell the whole story. Quality encompasses the global, holistic experience of each student and, by extension, their family or guardians. It involves opportunities that go beyond academics, with a fundamental focus on student well-being and safety.

1. Does the school meet global standards? Check their credentials

External accreditation and membership organizations hold international schools accountable over time. Accreditation by a reputable organization such as COBIS (Council of British International Schools) serves as a stamp of quality, indicating that the school has met specific high standards. COBIS even awards special ‘Beacon’ status to outstanding schools.

However, accreditation is not a one-time achievement, it is a rigorous, ongoing process that promotes continuous improvement. Schools are regularly reassessed to maintain their status, ensuring sustained excellence.

Voluntary accreditation reflects a school’s commitment to improvement and openness to feedback. Compulsory accreditation, such as IB (International Baccalaureate) accreditation for schools with the IB curriculum, are also critical indicators of quality.

Membership of accrediting organizations provides additional benefits, including:

• Opportunities to exchange ideas and perspectives
• Benchmarking Perspectives
• Access to services, research, events and training

You can find a list of COBIS member schools and their accreditation status on the website COBIS website.

2. What does a school’s recruiting process reveal about its priorities?

How a school approaches staff recruitment and retention provides insight into the quality of teaching and learning. Consider the following questions:

• Where does the school draw its staff from?
• What criteria are used to evaluate potential hires?
• Is the recruitment process robust, fair and well established?

High quality schools invest in the professional development of their staff by providing opportunities for training and development. These initiatives, whether internal, peer-led or externally accredited, improve expertise, motivation and engagement, ultimately benefiting students.

Importantly, support staff such as technicians and learning assistants also play a key role in maintaining high standards. Their skills and dedication significantly enrich the overall educational experience.

3. A school’s strength lies in its community – how does it connect with parents?

High quality schools foster genuine partnerships with parents. They encourage open communication and ensure that parents feel confident that their feedback will be listened to and taken seriously.

Such schools often involve parents in decision-making processes, such as determining class times, and create opportunities for social interactions. Events such as the Winter Social or community markets reinforce the sense of community. In addition, initiatives such as a welcoming committee for new parents help integrate families quickly, fostering a supportive and cohesive school environment.

A look at the school’s social media should provide clear evidence of strong parent engagement, featuring events, testimonials and collaborative activities.

4. An active alumni community speaks volumes about the quality and care of a school

A well-established school often boasts an active alumni network. The continued involvement of former students and staff reflects positively on the institution.

Schools that maintain connections with alumni demonstrate a genuine interest in their success after graduation. Alumni frequently contribute by offering career advice, attending events or donating resources. For current students, this extended community provides valuable networking opportunities, creating a lifelong support system that could enhance future career prospects.

Look for alumni profiles, interviews and reunion news on school channels – these highlight the vitality of the alumni network.

5. From policy to practice: Identify a school that prioritizes student well-being

The protection and welfare of pupils is fundamental to any high quality school. Protection includes:

• Protecting children from abuse
• Prevention of harm to health or development
• Ensuring safe and effective care
• Taking action to ensure the best outcomes for all children

Beyond safety, schools should actively promote the mental, emotional and physical health of students. Evidence of this commitment can be found in the curriculum, staff and facilities. Examples include:

• Dedicated mental health coordinators
• Lessons in emotional regulation and physical health
• Quiet or sensory spaces
• Displays promoting healthy eating

Bonus Tip: Admissions Team

A friendly, knowledgeable admissions team willing to answer your questions and provide insight is often a hallmark of a high-quality school.

The British School of the Netherlands (BSN) has been trusted by parents to provide their children with a high quality international and British education for over 90 years. Building on its rich heritage, the school looks to the future, equipping its students with the knowledge, skills and characteristics they need to become successful global citizens who can contribute to building a better world. Learn more about BSN and discover the welcoming, diverse and vibrant community and supportive environment by by visiting their website or scheduling a tour of one of their campuses.