De Dorpsschool in the Achterhoek is expanding with childcare. This was reported by Achterhoek Nieuws. The expansion means the school is extending its services beyond regular school hours and school holidays.
Integration of Education and Care
The expansion of De Dorpsschool fits a broader development in the Netherlands, where schools and childcare organizations are increasingly collaborating, merging, or adopting an integrated model. This integration offers parents a continuous pedagogical environment: children remain at the same location, with the same familiar faces and a consistent pedagogical approach.
In many municipalities, including rural areas such as the Achterhoek, the availability of childcare is limited. By offering childcare at school, De Dorpsschool can fulfill an important social function. It prevents parents from having to travel to more distant childcare locations and contributes to the liveability of the village.
Benefits of School-Based Childcare
School-based childcare, also referred to as brede school or integraal kindcentrum (IKC), offers various advantages:
- Familiarity for children: no change of location or pedagogical environment between school and care
- Practical for parents: one drop-off and pick-up point, one line of communication
- Efficient use of space: school buildings are also utilized outside school hours
- Continuity in development: childcare workers and teachers can more easily collaborate around the child
What Does This Mean for Parents?
For parents in the area of De Dorpsschool, this expansion brings concrete benefits. They will likely be able to use preschool care, after-school care (BSO), and care during school holidays at the same location as their child's primary school.
Parents who wish to use this childcare should take into account the national benefit system of the Belastingdienst (Tax and Customs Administration). The childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag) applies to registered childcare, with the amount of the benefit depending on income and the number of care hours. It is advisable to submit an application in a timely manner via Mijn Toeslagen.
Additionally, it is wise to inquire with the school or the involved childcare organization about how the transition from school to care is arranged, what pedagogical vision is applied, and whether there is a waiting list. In many village areas, demand for childcare is high, making timely registration essential.
Source: Achterhoek Nieuws