​Language Education For Young and Old, From Toddler Group to Adults
We teach students in primary education, secondary education, and adults. We prepare students for the Dutch as a Foreign Language Certificate exam and for obtaining a Seal of Biliteracy.
During the school year, students attend classes for 36 weeks, supplemented with six cultural events. The toddler program is a home-based program with ten practice days on campus. We place students in the following groups: toddlers and preschoolers, combined (Dutch) grade 2 and 3, combined (Dutch) grade 4 through 8, and secondary education year 1-3. In addition, there are classes for adults.
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In addition to our lessons, it's of great importance that our students speak and read Dutch at home as much as possible.
Preschool
For our toddlers and preschoolers (playgroup and Dutch grade 1), the focus is on activities that promote the development of spoken Dutch through play. We use the methods Sil at School (Sil op school) and Preschool University (Kleuteruniversiteit). We integrate this in an offline home program with ten practice lesson at location (once every three weeks).
group 1-2
In group 2, the focus is on activities aimed at developing oral language skills and early literacy. We use the method From Early Literacy to Reading (Van beginnende geletterdheid tot lezen). With this approach, children develop their literacy in a playful and enjoyable way and at their own pace.
group 3
In group 3, we use the method Veilig Leren Lezen - Kim. Veilig Leren Lezen has been the most widely used and most successful method for initial reading and language instruction in group 3 for generations. In addition, we use the voor-koor-door method (reading aloud - reading together aloud - individual reading).
group 4-8
In groups 4-8, we use the teaching methods Staal Spelling, a method that establishes a strong connection between spelling, verb conjugation, and grammar, including punctuation; Staal Taal, for expanding vocabulary; and Nieuwsbegrip, a method with lessons in reading comprehension, advanced technical reading, and vocabulary, all based on current events.
Secundary education
For our secondary education students, we use the Nieuw Nederlands method to prepare for the CNaVT exam. A CNaVT certificate gives your son or daughter the opportunity to study at a Dutch or Belgian university at the standard tuition rates for Dutch students.
In addition, we work with Nieuwsbegrip, a method with lessons in reading comprehension, advanced technical reading, and vocabulary, all based on current events.
Online/Hybrid Eductation -- Flexible and Personal​
Do you live in the Bay Area or beyond, but find it difficult to come to one of our campuses every week? No problem! For students from group 6 and up, we offer an online/hybrid program that is just as strong as our classroom lessons.
Online/Hybrid Primary Education
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For students from group 6 who are unable to attend classes at one of our locations, we offer an online/hybrid program specially developed for families who live far away or are looking for a flexible alternative. The lessons are taught by experienced teachers and are fully aligned with our teaching methods and learning objectives on site.
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Weekly online lessons through an interactive learning environment
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Experienced teachers who teach Dutch in a natural, playful way
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Cultural and social connection through in-person days at a central location
Part of the program includes in-person days at a central location (six times a year). Here, students meet their classmates, participate in fun activities, and practice their Dutch in a lively, cultural atmosphere.
Online/Hybrid Secondary Education
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We also offer a flexible and future-oriented online/hybrid program for secondary school students.
Our program is specially designed for students in secondary education. Features include:
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Weekly online lessons with experienced teachers
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Education that matches the level and interests of teenagers
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Full focus on language skills, culture, and personal development
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Preparation and examination for the Certificate of Dutch as a Foreign Language (CNaVT), a certificate required for admission to Dutch and Flemish universities and colleges
To put their language skills into practice, regular in-person days at a central location are part of the program, often combined with our cultural events. During these days, students attend lessons, participate in fun activities, and form friendships with peers.
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Culture
During the lessons, Culture (the 'C' in 'NTC') is regularly addressed through classroom themes and activities outside the classroom. In class, these themes are important for strengthening students' vocabulary. Our cultural activities and events outside the classroom are part of the official curriculum and are very enjoyable for our students, as well as for parents and siblings.
Kinderboekenweek
October
Every year, the joy of reading is stimulated by our activities around the Children's Book Week in class and with our annual Children's Book Week event at the Dutch Consulate.
4 / 5 May Celebration
May
In class, we focus on the Dutch and Belgian perspectives of the liberation.
Saint Nicholas
December
Can we have a year without a Sinterklaas party for all the sweet children in the area? Of course not!
King's Day
April
In collaboration with the Dutch consulate, we celebrate King's Day with traditional Dutch children's games in Golden Gate Park.
Ice skating
January
The Elfstedentocht of Silicon Valley, where families of the school gather to ice-skate while enjoying koek en zopie refreshments.
End of year party
June
To strengthen the bond between students and families, we end the year with a "gezellige" gathering at our campuses, where our online students are also welcome.
Enrollment at the Dutch School Silicon Valley
Personal intake & no-obligation trial lesson -- the perfect introduction
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Curious if DSSV is a good fit for your child? Simply sign up for an intake and trial lesson. After receiving your email, we will contact you to schedule an intake interview and a no-obligation trial lesson. During the intake interview, you will get to know our school and our teaching approach. During the trial lesson, you and your child will meet the teacher. After the trial lesson, our education team, in consultation with the school management, will determine which level group best suits your child. If your child needs extra support, we will discuss this with you right away. If you are satisfied, we will ask you to complete the online registration form to make the enrollment official.
Intake: A Complete Picture of Your Child
During the intake interview, we assess your child’s Dutch language level. We discuss your expectations and those of your child, so we can ensure a pleasant and appropriate start.
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If you received documentation when leaving the Netherlands or another Dutch Language and Culture (NTC) school, please provide it—this helps us determine the right level. This may include:
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An educational report
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Test data or student tracking system records
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Recent school reports
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Proof of withdrawal
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An individual education plan (IEP), if applicable
Placement based on level—not just age
At DSSV, we place children based on their language proficiency, not just their age. This aligns with the principles of Dutch education and ensures every child learns at a level that suits them—with enough challenge and confidence.
Extra support where needed
Sometimes a student needs a little extra support—such as for a language delay or in preparation for a return to the Netherlands or Belgium. That’s why, in addition to group lessons, we also offer customized private lessons tailored to your child’s personal learning goals.
Schedule an intake and trial lesson today—we look forward to welcoming you!
Tuition
Tuition is USD 175 per student per month for nine months. If your employer pays, tuition is USD 240 per month. There is also an annual fee of USD 50 per student for books, workbooks, and materials, and an annual registration fee of USD 100 per family.
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Big Family: 40% discount on tuition for the third student when three students of the same family participate simultaneously.
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Early Birds: 75% discount on registration fee if you register before May 15; 50% discount if you register before June 1; 25% discount if you register before July 1.
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Advance payment: 100% discount on registration fee if you pay tuition for the entire school year in advance.
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Tuition includes:
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Twice-yearly assessment via CITO or Diataal (for primary education)
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Option to prepare for the CNaVT exam (for secondary education)
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Thorough reporting twice a year
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Google For Education (digital Classroom and school email)
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Access to physical library
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Subscription to the Dutch Online Library (books and magazines)
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Participation in cultural events for the whole family (Children's Book Week, Sinterklaas, Skating, King's Day)
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CNaVT Exam -- Your International Proof of Dutch Language Proficiency
Do you want to study in the Netherlands or Flanders? Then you need an official certificate of your Dutch language proficiency. With the CNaVT exams (Certificate of Dutch as a Foreign Language), you demonstrate that you have mastered Dutch at the required level—and this is internationally recognized. In addition, the certificate can help you earn a Seal of Biliteracy (in cooperation with your local high school or university).
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Why choose CNaVT?
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Internationally recognized certificate – Accepted by universities and colleges in the Netherlands and Belgium (from level B2)
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A plus on your CV – Qualifies for the American Seal of Biliteracy (from level B1)
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For young people from age 16 – Ideal for high school students and young adults
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Flexible – You choose the exam that matches your level and future plans
The exams are developed by KU Leuven and Radboud University Nijmegen and are administered worldwide under the supervision of the Dutch Language Union. They are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), so your results are internationally comparable and reliable.
CNaVT at DSSV – Exclusively for motivated students
DSSV is a recognized CNaVT exam location. Our students prepare through the regular education program, with the option to strengthen their skills further through private lessons.
For DSSV students
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Exam fee: $245
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Private lessons (optional): available at the regular hourly rate
For external candidates
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Individual preparation (9 private lessons)
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Official exam at DSSV
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Total package: $2,450
Practical information
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Exam date: Annually in May
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Registration: February 15 through March 15
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Exam components:
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Part A: Listening and writing
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Part B: Reading and writing
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Part C: Speaking and listening (in conversation)
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From level B2: Oral presentation
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Ready to make your Dutch official?
Whether you want to study in the Netherlands or Flanders, have your bilingualism recognized for naturalization or as an elective at an American university, or are simply proud of your Dutch language skills—the CNaVT gives you the opportunity to prove it.
Contact us for more information, registration, or a no-obligation intake. Together, we’ll ensure excellent preparation and a strong result.
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