ISK: the International Switching Class
For foreign-language newcomers
The Internationale Schakelklas (ISK) at Futuris is for non-native newcomers who do not yet speak enough Dutch to enter regular education. In the ISK, we teach pupils the Dutch language quickly and effectively so that they can find their place in education and society. We offer a safe environment in which pupils feel at home and can start their new life in the Netherlands with confidence.
Futuris’ ISK offers education to pupils aged between 12 and 16. For pupils aged 16 and above, NOVA College in Amstelveen offers an ISK programme.
Subjects in the ISK
Language and other subjects
In addition to intensive NT2 language classes, pupils are also taught other subjects to develop their general knowledge and skills:
- Mathematics
- English
- Physical education
- Music
- Visual education
- Drama
- Technology
For advanced students, subjects such as biology and human & society are added. In addition, ISK pupils participate in school-wide projects to promote integration and prepare them for their future educational careers.
The ISK pathway
Different phases
The ISK pathway consists of several phases, focusing on learning the Dutch language (NT2) and developing skills that help pupils integrate into Dutch society. Pupils are also introduced to Dutch culture and the school system. They meet Dutch students and participate in school activities to promote their integration. As pupils progress in their language skills, the number of subjects they take is increased.
Going into mainstream education with confidence
After an average of 2 to 2.5 years, pupils can move on to regular education. This may be to vmbo at Futuris or to one of the other schools in the area that suit their progress and level (vmbo, havo or vwo). The ISK prepares students with the necessary language and study skills and helps them build the self-confidence needed to be successful in regular education.
NT2 expertise centre
Futuris supports schools in the region
Futuris acts as the expertise centre for Dutch as a Second Language (NT2) for the region. We support other schools in guiding foreign-language pupils who enter mainstream education. With experienced NT2 coaches, coordinators and support programmes, we ensure that every pupil gets the best chance of integration and success in education.
Admission and intake
Due to the large number of applications, the ISK operates a waiting list. As soon as a place becomes available, you will be contacted.
Conditions for admission
- You live in the municipality of Aalsmeer, Amstelveen, Ouder-Amstel, Uithoorn or De Ronde Venen.
- You have not been in the Netherlands for more than two years.
- You are between 12 and 16 years old.
- You have no or insufficient command of the Dutch language.
Application procedure
- Parents send an e-mail to isk@futuris.nl and, if possible, already complete the online application form for ISK.
- As soon as a place is available, the ISK coordinator will contact you to schedule an intake interview.
- If the application form is not yet filled in, a staff member will help with that during the intake interview.
Bring to the intake interview
- Student’s passport.
- Registration form from the municipality showing the citizen service number (BSN).
Any questions?
Contact the ISK coordinator at isk@futuris.nl.
Frequently asked questions
If you do not understand a lesson well or need help, you can always contact your teacher or mentor. Futuris also offers additional support through student coaches, remedial teachers and homework help.
Futuris ensures a safe learning environment by actively addressing bullying behaviour and appointing a confidential advisor to whom pupils can turn. There is a bullying protocol and the mentoring team plays an important role in identifying and resolving conflicts.
In the lower years, pupils are offered both theoretical and practical subjects. In year 1, you will be taught Dutch, English, mathematics/math, human & social sciences, biology, art education, technology, music, care, physical education, mentoring lessons, profile hours and counselling hours. In year 2, physics/chemistry, German (for mavo students) and services & products (for basic/framework students) are added.
Futuris prepares you for further education by teaching you both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The profile classes help you gain practical experience early on, while the mavo/havo classes are specifically aimed at moving on to havo. In addition, we offer guidance in the choices for further education.
At Futuris, we not only prepare you for an exam, but also make sure you get the skills you will need in the future. Whatever you are going to do. We call these skills the 21st century skills and they are important for your personal and professional growth. You can think about:
- Communication: communicating effectively with others.
- Collaboration: learning to work in teams.
- Dealing with ICT: working with computers and other technologies.
- Creativity: developing your own ideas and coming up with solutions.
- Critical thinking: analysing and assessing information.
- Problem solving: finding practical and smart solutions to challenges.
- Social & cultural skills: interact well with others, regardless of their background.
- Control over own actions: working independently and taking responsibility for your own learning.
Futuris offers vmbo-basis, vmbo-kader, vmbo-theoretical (mavo) and mavo/havo. You can read more on the page about learning pathways. We also have International Transition Classes (ISK) for non-native newcomers who do not yet speak sufficient Dutch to enter regular education.
At Futuris, we have five profile classes: sports, technology, expression, cooking and mavo/havo. When you enter our school in the first year, you can choose one of the five profile classes. You follow these classes throughout your bridging period, which lasts two years. In the profile classes, you take weekly classes that match your interests and talents.