American School of The Hague Announces Dutch-English Dual Language Pathway

[Wassenaar, March 4] - American School of The Hague (ASH) is excited to introduce the Dutch-English Dual Language Pathway. This exciting initiative builds on the strength of the ASH curriculum, developing proficiency in both Dutch and English, further broadening future opportunities available to students.

“As we reflect on the school’s 70 years in the Netherlands, the introduction of the Dual Language Pathway is more than an essential educational opportunity; it’s a bridge that directly connects our international community to the heart of Dutch life,” says Director Dr. Courtney Lowe. 

Beginning in Kindergarten for the 2024 academic year, students enrolled in the Dual Language Pathway will not only learn Dutch and English but will also benefit from the full ASH Experience and be a vital part of a vibrant school community where children from more than 70 nationalities learn and grow.

“Students in our Dual Language Pathway will experience everything that we provide at ASH,” says Elementary School Principal Dr. Michelle deKam Palmieri. “What we are really focusing on is that we have an academic experience that includes the rigor of the curriculum that all ASH students experience through language proficiency in Dutch.”

The Dual Language Pathway is designed for international and Dutch families alike, broadening opportunities to those families seeking a blend of local and global university opportunities and providing a unique educational experience that transcends cultural boundaries. 

Led by native Dutch and English-speaking teachers, the Dual Language Pathway aligns with the ASH curriculum, providing opportunities to build strong student communities, engage in outdoor learning, and experience the breadth of the school’s specialist offerings including STEM, art and music, and physical education. 

Initial instruction will be primarily in Dutch with formal English instruction gradually introduced at each grade level. This approach ensures a balanced dual language immersion, seamlessly integrating Dutch and English throughout the curriculum with a strong emphasis on literacy development in both languages.

Families interested in the Dual Language Pathway are invited to inquire about the program, schedule a visit, or join an information session. Applications for Kindergarten are now being accepted.