English

At Durendael HAVO and VWO students can choose to take part in the bilingual programme. The bilingual programme (tto) is meant for students that seek something extra. From day one students are immersed in the English language as in their first three years 70% of the school subjects will be taught in English. At the end of year three students will do a English exam which is equivalent to the Cambridge CAE level. In the upper forms (years 4 and above) bilingual students will follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. This programme prepares students for higher education as the programme aims to develop the student’s academic skills, notion of global citzenship and academic English; a must for every student that aspires to attend HBO or University! 

International Orientation

Bilingual Education educates students to become World Citizens. This is the greatest difference between schools that offer Cambridge programmes. The reach of bilingual education is that much greater: It puts students in real situations where they need to communicate with people from other cultures, applying their knowledge of cultures and language. As can be expected, English is only one facet of bilingual education; language is considered a means to communicate in the world. Therefore, students take part in both cultural trips to England and the European Exchange programme where they visit peers from Romania, England, Spain and Germany. What is more, at school students take part in various activities where they come into contact with other cultures and the English language.Lastly, students organize activities during our famous international evenings.

Digital Portfolio

By taking part in cultural programmes and following classes that stimulate knowledge of culture, students discover their talents and develop important skills that define a global citizen. These acquired skills are registered in the student’s personal digital portfolio which gives students insight to their development. This is a valuable addition to the student’s CV when they apply for a study in higher education and in job applications. When all skills are acquired at the end of year three the student’s receive a Junior Certificate; a highlight and great achievement in the student’s school career.

Houses

The junior tto classes (1, 2 and 3 tto) are sorted into four Houses. Houses stimulate the students to work together and speak as much English as possible in and outside of class. In other words, students are learning from each other. Each House has their own colour and logo and they battle for the title House of the Year. Furthermore, the Houses tasks are linked to the competences and skills and also create input for the portfolio.

Getting used to the English language

The bilingual programme might be overwhelming. Everything is in English, new teachers, new school. At Durendael we understand that this something that you need to get used to so we are here to help you! Up until the autumn break the teachers will use Dutch as well as English to help you get used to lessons in English. In this way you will gradually become familiar with the English language. What is more, the teachers create lessons where you will speak as much English as possible so your English and confidence in using English develops from day one.