International Teaching on Castle Grounds in the Netherlands

Developed in and around a historic castle, Eerde International Boarding School (EerdeIBS) sits in the East of the Netherlands, surrounded by beautiful countryside. The school’s library, kitchen, dining room, and offices are based in the main castle, dating back to 1734, and the boarding houses are the converted stables of centuries past. Alongside these magnificent historic structures sits the state-of-the art school with modern and bright classrooms, offices, and workspaces. EerdeIBS is set amidst extensive grounds, including a moat and various waterways, a gymnasium, and an art room.

The closest town is picturesque and small Ommen, with a train station and a selection of supermarkets, shops, restaurants, and bars. Fifteen minutes away by train, the nearest big city Zwolle offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Major cities such as Amsterdam and Den Hague are easily accessible by road or train in under two hours.

Fully accredited by the Council of International Schools and Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, EerdeIBS currently enrolls 65 pre-K-12 students representing 20 nationalities. The school delivers the International Primary and Middle Years curricula followed by choices for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education and the International Baccalaureate Career or Diploma Programmes. The teaching staff of 21 includes seven local educators. Boarding is available to students in Grades 9-12 (UK Years 10-13).

Music, drama and theatre, visual arts and film are all part of EerdeIBS’s arts curriculum. While students often give music and drama performances during the school year, a touch of magic is added in the summer when the forest theatre on the EerdeIBS grounds opens for performances. Regular trips to world-class museums—such as the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam—the cinema, and live music and theatre performances are all part of the cultural activities provided for students.

EerdeIBS’s location amongst the forest, fields, and streams of rural Overijssel make it the perfect location for a variety of outdoor pursuits. Nature trails crisscross the landscape for miles all around Eerde Castle, offering students ample opportunity to hike, bike, and camp. The many rivers of the region make canoeing and swimming popular pursuits. Students also have the opportunity to learn basic outdoors survival skills, such as navigation and map-reading.

The sports hall and gym on the castle grounds is available to students as part of the curriculum and for boarding pupils to enjoy in their free time. Students may join campus teams for football, volleyball, basketball, cricket, rugby, and netball. However, for students who compete at a high level, EerdeIBS offers extra Elite Talent Coaching, in which students follow a tailor-made program with an adapted timetable and personal coaching to manage their ambitions in both sport and learning.

Close to campus are opportunities to enjoy training in tennis, golf, ballet, and swimming. Additionally, EerdeIBS’s partnership with local stables De Hazelhorst gives ample prospects for all types of equestrian activities, from riding lessons to competing in events.

EerdeIBs can hire single, certified teachers and would also consider couples, including those with a non-teaching partner. Candidates need not hold an academic degree in the subject they will be teaching, and there is no age limit for those who wish to teach abroad to obtain a work visa.

benefits package includes moving and settling-in allowances as well as annual airfare. Teachers may contribute to a retirement plan to which the school contributes 1%. Subsidized tuition fees are provided for dependents as well. Professional development is tailored for each individual in conjunction with the needs of the school and academics. This overseas teaching opportunity could amount to good savings or the chance for some families of four to live on one salary. Additionally, there are local employment opportunities for non-teaching partners.

To gain access to Eerde International Boarding School’s full profile on the Search Associates database, including a list of any vacancies, candidates can apply for membership by clicking here. Candidates already registered can easily access the school profile directly through their dashboards.

Please note: The information presented about this school was valid on the date published. This information may change, and the most up-to-date information can be found on the school profile.