Study on supporting school innovation across Europe : case study 8 : the Netherlands, Flevoland - the Netherlands

The two schools chosen for this case study are from Lelystad, the capital of Flevoland. They both are situated in residential middle-class and relatively wealthy neighbourhoods in terms of level of employment, education and income (Wijkmonitor, 2015). These public schools belong to a foundation of 21 schools. The board of this foundation considers these schools as examples of innovative schools within the foundation. The Tjotter school (school 1) managed to improve student results in a relatively short period of time. The Dutch Inspectorate assesses the quality of education of schools based on school visits and standardised tests. The Tjotter school used to be a rather "weak school", but managed to improve student results, notably thanks to the work of the recently appointed new director. This school is special because it focuses on teachers' shared learning within a clear common view of education (See 2.1.1. for more details). The Warande school (school 2) is recognised for its open and innovative approach. The school, founded in 2010 in a newly-developed neighbourhood, is part of a child centre where child care and education are integrated. According to the interviewed policy makers from the City Council of Lelystad, the Warande school is open to the implementation of "21st century skills" in education. According to the Dutch School Inspectorate, student results are satisfactory now.