The School for Dutch

Conversation-first Dutch in Amsterdam

The School for Dutch teaches adults in Amsterdam’s De Pijp neighbourhood, focusing on spoken Dutch from the first lesson. The school says it has taught international residents since 1990. Its “Dutch the Natural Way” method introduces speaking and real situations early, then connects grammar to phrases students have already used. This can appeal to someone who knows rules from an app or textbook but finds it hard to respond when a neighbour, colleague or shopkeeper speaks at normal speed.

Three evening-course levels

The regular programme is described as ten-week evening courses that begin roughly every three months. The Survival Course is aimed at beginners and everyday tasks; the Small Talk Course extends conversations beyond simple transactions; and the Conversation Course develops opinions, discussion and humour. The site maps these levels to the CEFR scale from A1 toward B1. Prospective students should use the course outline and placement advice rather than assuming a level from years spent living in the Netherlands.

Intensive, private and workplace options

Beyond the regular evening groups, the school lists a one-week beginner intensive, private lessons and in-company courses. Private teaching can focus on a specific goal, timetable or exam, while a workplace course can help an international team use Dutch in local professional and social settings. The school provides a free online level test and says it follows up with personalised course advice. Group size, exact schedule and tuition terms should be checked for the chosen intake.

Visiting and choosing a class

The school is at Ceintuurbaan 384, 1073 EM Amsterdam and publishes a telephone number and weekday office hours. It names Wessel van der Heijden as the method’s founder and Jeroen van den Berg as the current school leader. A newcomer can ask whether a course is suitable for complete beginners, how much speaking practice is expected between lessons and whether missed classes can be made up. The curriculum is available on the website for a closer look before enrolling.