Netherlands. [CME Country Reports].

Overview & Synopsis

Under the 1969 Compulsory Education Act in the Netherlands, immigrant parents of school age children are obliged to enroll them in a primary school. Chief problems in the education of these children are the Dutch language, and a great cultural diversity in the children's backgrounds. Another problem relates to length of residence -- although the Netherlands needs manpower from other countries, its demographic situation does not encourage immigrant families who will settle permanently. Adult training programs include part-time elementary technical education; professional training centres (Dutch speaking only); and industrial training. Although no definite standards have been laid down for primary education, immigrant children are given a Dutch education, while wherever possible instruction is given in the language and culture of their native country. Federal legislation for nursery schools, primary schools, secondary education, post-secondary education, and adult training and education are explained. In 1972, there were 154,746 immigrant workers in the Netherlands, mostly from Turkey, Morocco, and Spain. The bibliography lists over 30 references published between 1966-73. Titles are in Dutch. (KM)