Strong growth in the international target group
The Haarlemmermeer region is seeing a rapidly growing population of international knowledge workers. Increasingly, families with children are also settling in the area. This development prompted several collaborating school boards and the municipality to explore the feasibility of establishing a publicly funded Internationally Oriented Secondary Education institution (IGVO) in Hoofddorp. Decisio carried out this study, with positive results.
Hoofddorp to launch international secondary education soon
Data from Decisio’s ‘Internationals’ database and projections for the target group show that the number of potential students is sufficient to start an IGVO department in Hoofddorp. This means the initiative meets the national requirement of at least 120 students. Growth is further supported by substantial housing developments and the region’s strong appeal to international families. The Ministry has acknowledged this and granted the licence to start an IGVO in spring 2025.
Success factors for a new IGVO department
Establishing an IGVO department requires administrative ambition, collaboration, and a clear connection with both the existing “mother school” and the internationally oriented primary school already located in Hoofddorp. Key considerations include creating a vertical school community (primary–secondary), selecting an appropriate curriculum, and building administrative and political support. The IGVO Haarlemmermeer Taskforce — a partnership between the municipality, school boards, and educational and social organisations — provides a strong foundation for cooperation and knowledge sharing. These focus areas and success factors will be further developed by the involved parties in the coming period.
More information
For more information, please contact Daan van Gent (d.vangent@decisio.nl) or Simone Vos (s.vos@decisio.nl). You can also reach us by phone at 020 670 05 62.
