DENISE- De Nieuwe Internationale School Esprit

DENISE operates on the core values of responsibility, connectedness, and open-mindedness, with a motto of "Shaping your future by knowing your past." It strives to provide equal opportunities for all children regardless of background, culture, or religion, fostering a super-diverse community of students from over 70 countries. The educational approach emphasizes both academic achievement and personal development, including qualities such as thoughtfulness, resilience, and adaptability.

The school offers a continuous learning pathway from age 4 to 18, featuring bilingual primary education (three days in Dutch, two days in English). The secondary curriculum includes a three-year bridge class (IMYC), followed by Dutch-language VMBO-TL and HAVO tracks, and the English-language International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Specialized newcomers' programs (EOA/ISK/Taalklassen) are available to support students arriving in the Netherlands.

The school aims to provide students with a diploma that aligns with their individual ambitions and abilities. Secondary students can pursue Dutch-language VMBO-TL and HAVO diplomas or the English-language International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. The school's mission is to prepare students for success in Dutch society and beyond, emphasizing sustainability and international awareness.

The school provides dedicated language classes for newcomers and students who have not yet mastered Dutch, aiming to reach a B1 proficiency level. Guidance and support are integrated into the educational structure to assist students with language challenges and ensure smooth transitions between classes. The school emphasizes social and emotional development through assessment tasks and personal learning goals.

Enrollment is open to students aged 4 to 18, with applications processed via email. Primary school admissions for children under 4 follow the Amsterdam Central Enrollment Policy, while older students are assessed based on academic level and language proficiency. The school requires a parental contribution of €225 per year, with an additional fee for the IB program where applicable.

The school hosts information sessions throughout the academic year for both primary and secondary prospective families. Primary school sessions are held at the school, while secondary education sessions for international families are conducted online via Google Meet. The central application period for students transitioning from grade 8 to secondary education typically occurs in late March.

The school operates from a main location on Piet Mondriaanstraat 140 in Amsterdam, with a subsidiary location on Orteliusstraat 28. The newcomers program is situated at a separate facility on Van Hallstraat 621. The campus environment is designed to support a diverse community of students, teachers, and staff.

The school fosters a community-focused environment that includes activities such as student debates in the theater and an annual Oscars ceremony. Students are encouraged to develop personal learning goals alongside academic ones, focusing on qualities like resilience, adaptability, and international awareness. Parents are invited to play an active role in shaping the school's international profile.