For the first time to primary school: how it works

Is your child turning 2 soon? It's time to start exploring which primary school suits them best. You register your child around their third birthday. Children may start school from the age of four.

When your child is about 2 ½ years old, you'll receive a letter from the municipality about the registration procedure that nearly all primary schools in Zoetermeer use: 'Zo naar de basisschool'. This gives your child and others equal chances of being placed at the school of your first choice.

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Use the school finder and visit different schools to form a clear picture and make your choice.

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There are four fixed registration periods. You register your child in the period when they turn 3.

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Within six weeks after the registration period closes, the school where your child will be placed will notify you.

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You will receive an enrolment form to make the placement definitive. Your child is welcome at school from the age of 4!

Frequently asked questions

1I have filled in the registration form. When will I receive notification?
After sending the registration form, you will automatically receive a confirmation by email. Within six weeks after closing of the registration period you will receive notification from the school where your child will be placed. You will receive a confirmation from the primary school that you specified as first preference. You will also be asked to check your details and confirm your registration.
2When does a school lottery take place and how does it work?
After the priority rules have been applied, a school lottery takes place. For the children who are not selected, we check whether they can be placed at the second (and if necessary) third school. During the lottery (a parent or employee who sits on the school's participation council) is present.
3Which priority rules are applied?
If there are more registrations than available places, the school applies the priority rules. This means that children get priority if: - they have a brother or sister, half-brother or half-sister, or step-brother or step-sister at the same school; - they attend a childcare facility in the same building. Examples are day-care centre, preschool or play-language house.
4Which primary schools are there in Zoetermeer?
Zoetermeer has a large range of primary schools, varying from public to special education, each with its own approach and atmosphere. On our website you can find a complete overview of all primary schools in Zoetermeer, including addresses and links to the school pages.
5How does enrolment at a primary school in Zoetermeer work?
In Zoetermeer enrolment runs via the central registration system 'Zo naar de basisschool'. You choose several primary schools as preference, fill in the registration form and then receive notification of which school your child has been placed at.
6When do I need to register my child for primary school?
You can register your child in the year they turn three. The registration period has fixed start and end dates per school year. It is important to register on time, because late registration can reduce the chance of placement at your preferred school.
7How do I choose the right primary school for my child?
Pay attention to the educational offer, location, atmosphere and any extra activities. Visit open days, read the school guide and talk to other parents.
8What happens if I register my child too late?
With late registration the chance is greater that the preferred school is already full. You will then get a place at a school where there is still room.
9Can I specify multiple schools when registering?
Yes, you can specify multiple primary schools in order of preference, which increases the chance that your child will be placed at a suitable school.
10What if my child is not placed at the school of my first choice?
Then we look at the second or third choice.
11Can I register my child in between if we are moving to Zoetermeer?
Yes, contact the school of your choice. If there is no place, the municipality or the registration point will help with finding a suitable school.