How can the language level of old comers (i.e. individuals of 18 years or older born outside of the EU and in possession of a valid residence permit or Dutch passport) be increased by at least one level? How can old comers participate more independently in Dutch society and increase their social mobility?

Lessons are given at various language levels ranging from literacy courses to NT2- 2 level. The lessons are held in Slotervaart-Overtoomseveld, Geuzenveld-Slotermeer, Bos en Lommer, Noord, Oud-West and Westerpark.

During registration, an inventory is taken of the candidates’ desires and expectations, the tuition days and childcare. The students are also provided with information on guarantees and mutual obligations. Before the course starts, each student pays a deposit of € 50 and signs an educational agreement. This deposit is returned to the student upon successful completion of the course. The students are extensively counselled throughout the process. Difficulties, progress, etc. were discussed during these talks.

Each participant was tested by an independent organisation at the start of the course. Each participant’s results on the NT2 test and their registration form were placed in their respective files. After three months of following the course, each participant was independently tested on the course content. The progress at that point is recorded on the basis of four skills: talking, reading, listening and writing. At the end of the course, each participant is tested again and the final results are recorded. The NCB uses the tests of the InterCulturele Evaluatie (ICE) (Intercultural Evaluation Office).

Approximately 400 old comers take lessons 3 times a week. An average course totals 240 to 270 hours. A certificate and a grade list are awarded to the candidate at the end of the course at a festive ceremony. Various self-help organisations and mosques are involved in the projects, which for their part are financed by various city districts and the Social Development Department of the city of Amsterdam.

Nederlands Centrum Buitenlanders (Dutch Centre for Foreigners)
I. Akel, tel. +31 30 2394959

31/12/2002

case

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Quality of life

Skills improvement