Sports
Sports are taught in schools and there are numerous projects to encourage children to participate in sporting activities.
Sports in school
Primary and secondary schools provide physical education lessons (gymles) once a week, the aim being to promote physical exercise.
During these lessons pupils take part in various team sports. They must bring their own sports clothing to the lessons. It is up to the school to determine whether these lessons are single–sex or co-educational.
Swimming lessons
Swimming lessons are provided by every primary school in the Netherlands. Children go to a swimming pool once a week with the aim of obtaining a swimming diploma. Schools may ask parents for a contribution to the costs but this is voluntary.
Choosing a sport
The municipality of Amsterdam has set up a youth sport project called Jeugdsport in Beweging (JIB). The aim is to introduce children to different sports such as skating, rugby, table tennis etc. If this is successful, they can continue playing their favourite sport through a sports association. As part of the project, schools can register for up to three sports a year. Professional coaches then come and give try-out lessons during normal physical education lessons. Ask the school management whether your child is enrolled in a JIB-project.
Sports groups
For a list of international sport groups (most of which are for adults) click here.
- Tell a friend
You can also reach us by phone:
+31 (0)20 254 79 99