ACCESS magazine | A time of change (Autumn 2022)

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2022 Autumn Aoftimechange In this issue | A life of languages | Home thoughts from abroad | Interpreting justice | It’s as easy as A.B.C. | Open to inclusivity | Ready for take-off | The power of a home-cooked meal | Free to pick up ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT MOVING TO AND LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS

Watch them learn through concept based inquiry

at The International School of The Hague

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Until next time, take care and… happy reading!

never imagined that six years later I would be putting together my first ‘Letter from the Editor’.

Letter from the Editor

P.S. A bit about me… I am from Bantry (southwest Ireland) and have lived abroad for over 20 years.

Tracey Taylor ACCESS Editor editor@access-nl.org I

I have been in the Netherlands since 2008, and Maastricht (South Limburg) is home. I live with my hubby Dave and our cat, Little Tubbs. When not at my day job (management assistant), I enjoy photography, yoga, reading, writing, playing piano, and singing in a choir.

In this edition, our cover story–by Katarina Gaborova–focuses on mental health and gratitude. Lee Hitchcock shares the history of the American Book Center in our Arts & Entertainment piece, and Molly Quell investigates interpretation and translation for our International Community section. Meanwhile, Daphne Vlachojannis and Mimi Potvin write about multilingual matters, Joanna Bouma examines inclusivity, and Olivia van den Broek-Neri explores bicycles and cycle paths. Sandra Silva serves up a culinary tip, Giulia Quaresima handles our review, and Elizabeth Hewitt introduces us to the foundation Thuisgekookt We also have details about schools, legal advice, and the IamExpat Fair in October. I hope you find the content interesting and useful, and if there are topics you might like to see featured in the future, please email me. Although just transitioning into autumn, the ACCESS Magazine team is already looking ahead to winter and thinking about our next publication–due out in early December. We will once again endeavour to bring you an informative edition.

Dear ACCESS readers

When I began writing for ACCESS in 2016, I never imagined that six years later I would be putting together my first ‘Letter from the Editor’. I was already proud to write for the magazine and am now delighted (if somewhat daunted) to take over the editor role.

The creation and production of this edition brought a steep learning curve, and the publication would not have reached the printers without the support of the ACCESS organisation, our talented writers, and wonderful designer. I must also mention my predecessor Steve Voyce for his guidance and unyielding patience. Thank you all.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 3

I hope this finds you well, and that you enjoyed a beautiful summer. As we move to a new season, I am excited to present our autumn magazine: A time of change.

ACCESS

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4 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 Colophon Publisher Stichting ACCESS Editorial content editor@access-nl.org Advertising 070 345 17 fnd@access-nl.org00 Editor Tracey Taylor Proofreader Nancy Kroonenberg Design & Layout M-space - graphic designers Printer Printall AS, Tallinn, Estonia Cover image Gabby Orcutt Contents images (clockwise) Johnny Mcclung, Roam in color, Maylon Rojer, Ian, A.B.C. This issue of ACCESS magazine would not have been possible without the generous help and dedication of Joanna Bouma, Olivia van den Broek-Neri, Katarina Gaborova, Elizabeth Hewitt, Lee Hitchcock, Mimi Potvin, Giulia Quaresima, Molly Quell, Sandra Silva and Daphne Vlachojannis. With special thanks to Marek Moggré, Nancy Kroonenberg, Deborah Valentine and Steve Voyce for their kind guidance and support. Our helpdesks respond to questions about coming to, as well as living and settling in the Netherlands. This is free of charge. Consult the ACCESS website for days and times: access-nl.org. Find our helpdesks in: • The Hague, City Hall, Atrium • Amsterdam, IN Amsterdam, World Trade Center I-Tower, ground floor • Amstelveen Municipality, Amstelveen City Hall, Laan Nieuwer-Amstel 1, 1182 JR Amstelveen • Leiden, Stadskantoor Leiden, Bargelaan 190 • Utrecht, IWCUR, International Welcome Centre Utrecht Region, Stadskantoor Utrecht, Stadsplateau 1, 2nd floor

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Our commercial and municipal partners and patrons invest in us, so we can support you–the international community. @ helpdesk@access-nl.org+31854000338

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 5 Contents 6 ACCESS Stories 8 Cover Story Ready for take-off 14 Education A life of languages 20 Arts & Entertainment It’s as easy as A.B.C 22 International Community Interpreting justice 24 Schools 26 Health & Well-being The power of a home-cooked meal 30 Dutch Society Open to inclusivity 35 Dutch Lifestyle Access is accessing 40 Food Home thoughts from abroad 42 Review Amsterdam calling Autumn 2022 Vol. 35 No. 2 Circulation: 7,000 Also available online at: magazine.access-nl.org Copyright ACCESS 2022 All rights reserved. No part of the ACCESS Magazine may be used in any form without explicit permission in writing from the Publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at the time of going to press. However, ACCESS and its writers cannot accept any responsibility for the accuracy of the information included. 8 2226 20 14

6 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 KRISTINA AN ACCESS STORY Now that I am settled here, how can I meet people and give back to the community? You should volunteer at ACCESS! What do they do? They provide support to the community...international They have plenty of experience of what itʼs like to move to and live in the Netherlands Iʼd like to improve my existing skills while learning new ones too... You can do that at ACCESS too! They help their volunteers improve and provide a friendly, supportive network Sounds like ACCESS is what Iʼm looking for! Check out their website volunteering-for-accessaccess-nl.org/becomingaboutavolunteer ACCESS Stories

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 7 I went to an introduction session for ACCESS volunteers... THE FOLLOWING MONTH... How was it? And how did that go? I was selected! Iʼm starting my training next week. Then I can work on the helpdesk It was brilliant! We learned what they do, why they do it and how they do it... Then I had a short interview with them Congratulations! AndThanks!after two months I can apply for other positions in the organisation Iʼm really glad I started volunteering at ACCESS! access-nl.org/volunteering-for-access

8 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022

NOHASSIMOHAMEDPHOTO:

characters found the loss of social connections and face-to-face interactions a tough challenge whereas more introverted types embraced lockdown life and discovered that working from home and avoiding a commute contributed to a harmonious work-life balance.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 9

Check-in While sitting in Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, sipping a café latte, and waiting patiently for a flight, I found the perfect moment to observe the hustle and bustle of the third busiest airport in Europe. Watching people travel again (something we once took for granted), mingle with fellow passengers, and hug loved ones had become something of a distant memory. The loss of accessibility and simply not being able to “get around” had had an impact in many Extrovertedways.

MARINELLIARONPHOTO:

»

GABOROVAKATARINA Ready for take -off Cover Story

Final call No matter which group one falls into, the conse quences of Covid-19 undoubtedly contributed to tensions amongst family members, restrictions in social engagements, disruptions to public activities, and a general increase in terms of concerns for our own health and that of our loved ones. “Clinicians have noticed an increase in fear”, says Luna Marques, Clinical Psychologist at Harvard Medical School, “along with a rise in anxiety and depression since the start of the pandemic”.

Given my profession, I am keen to investigate how others have managed over the past few years so while on board, I took the opportunity to pose a question to some fellow passengers. “Since we regained access to public places and restaurants, I truly appreciate meeting friends again, and enjoying a drink or meal prepared by someone else”, says Zuzana. “It sounds so simple and ordinary, but it feels so good and I’ve really missed it”, she adds. I can certainly relate but being able to go to a restau rant again is not the only change we met; we also need to consider the effect of working from home. “I recall going back to the office to facilitate a faceto-face workshop”, says Adam. “It was nice not to be online but being around people made me aware of my shyness once again, and it took time to re-establish routines and patterns”, he goes on to say. With the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the world changed forever. Lockdown and quarantine had a significant impact on our private and professional lives, on our mental health, and on our ability to travel. Even though life is “open” once again, how different is the landscape of our daily existence two years on?

BY

Turbulence Next to the after (and ongoing) effects of Covid-19, along with the recent geo-political invasion of Ukraine, mass shootings in the USA, and continuing issues surrounding poverty and climate change, it is no wonder society is struggling.

While I was sitting in the departure lounge at Schiphol, immersed in thought and surrounded by the buzz of airport noise, it occurred to me to ponder if there might be any positive slant on the world situation

On the runway Indeed, leaving one’s home office space brings fresh perspectives and even a sense of panic. As humans, we are creatures of habit and new habits are things we can adapt to – and adopt – very quickly. Returning to a traditional office environment and interacting with colleagues “in real life” is welcomed by some, but a rather scary prospect for others, and we cannot underestimate the learning curve as we get reac quainted with social interactions and etiquette and leave our home office comfort zone.

Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realise they were the big things.

Ready for take-off

SILLIMANNOAHPHOTO:

PHOTO: MAYLON ROJER

10 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 Cover Story |

In fact, the daily practise of identifying three things for which we are grateful helps to cultivate positive emotions, encourage thankfulness, and instil coping abilities – which in turn better equips us to tackle the tougher moments in life. Fasten your seatbelt

I was ready to make each moment count… from family meals together to simply talking and sharing stories. As I descended the airplane steps, I felt a soft breeze caress my face and breathed in all the sights, sounds, and smells. I was home… I was grateful. «

Cruising altitude

About the Author: Founder of K.G. Psychological Services, author of “V!VA Tools for well-being” and “SEE BEE TEE”, Katarina lives in The Hague with partner Maylon, daughters Monique and Mia, and Pomeranian Monika katarinagaborova.com | psychologistinthehague.com

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 11 as we know it today? Did the Covid-19 pandemic force us to re-discover ourselves and re-access what matters most in life?

As a registered psychologist, I am passionate about helping people find balance, a sense of direction, and a relaxed state of mind. A cornerstone of all these elements is to practise gratitude. It may seem like a small thing, but it has such a big impact. Many would argue that the most important lesson is not taking anything for granted. Positive psychology teaches us that practising gratitude and having appreciation (or acknowledgement) for the good in our lives can increase our sense of happiness.

ROJERMAYLONPHOTO: Didyou know...If you are feeling down,want to learn more aboutpositive psychology, or just needsomeone to talk to, you canreach-out to our Counselingnetwork:counsellingaccess-nl.org/

Another important lesson in positive psychology is the practise of savouring, which involves using detailed thoughts, or the actions/senses associated, to enjoy each unique moment to the full – be it eating a tasty meal or having a nice time.

Practising savouring can also increase the intensity, duration, and appreciation of a positive experience and it has been scientifically shown that our stress hormones decrease if we hold on to that feeling for two minutes.

In my practice, I discovered that savouring could reverse the downward spiral of negative feelings and that regular practise of the exercise could improve our health, help us make positive life choices, and develop our sense of self-worth. This is often referred to as the “up-regulation of positive emotions”.

Touchdown As my plane landed in Slovakia, I was overwhelmed with happiness at seeing my parents again… of hug ging them, feeling their touch, hearing their voices.

www.access-nl.orgaccess.nlACCESS -Netherlands ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT MOVING TO AND LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS For questions about settlin g into your new life in the Netherlands .

Event | Partner Feature

View the full workshop programme here: thehague.iamexpatfair.nl/program For press enquiries and access please contact: accounts@iamexpatfair.nl High-res videos: vimeo.com/199689976

Here’s what to expect at the IamExpat fair:

• Talk to recruiters, browse job vacancies, and set new career goals

• Book your free ticket now!

• Attend free workshops and presentations

You may want to meet local job recruiters, get the ball rolling on improving your Dutch or look into getting a mortgage–or you may just be curious about what’s on offer. No matter what you’re looking for or why you’re attending, the IamExpat Fair promises to be a fun and informative day for all. The fair lasts from 10am–5pm, and the first 2.000 visitors get a free goodie bag! Get your free tickets and plan your visit

• The leading expat fair in the Netherlands

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Planning on attending as a family? We’ve got you covered! There is even a supervised kids’ area where the little ones can play.

• Take advantage of special offers exclusive to attendees of the IamExpat Fair

Ever since the IamExpat Fair began, it has brought together more than 360 companies, welcomed over 22,000 visitors from 150 countries around the world, and held over 175 workshops and information sessions. This makes the IamExpat Fair the leading fair for internationals in the Netherlands. Save the date and reserve your free ticket online! « Information about the IamExpat Fair The Hague, 2022 Date: Saturday, 1 October 2022 Time: 10am–5pm Location: Grote Kerk, The Hague Entry is free but online registration is necessary: thehague.iamexpatfair.nl/free-registration

Join the IamExpat Fair this autumn

The IamExpat Fair offers a bustling meeting point for expats to get acquainted with local businesses, service providers and thousands of other expats from all over the world. Attendees can browse stands that, year after year, have been appreciated by expats in all areas of life, from career, housing and education to family, health and leisure - and, admission is free You can browse at a leisurely pace, or you can plan your day around a series of insightful workshops given by a number of top experts in their field, which are also free of charge.

• Find out how to buy and rent houses in the Netherlands

The IamExpat Fair on 1 October 2022 at the Grote Kerk in The Hague is an exciting chance for internationals in the Netherlands to find everything they need, in one place. Featuring more exhibitors than ever before, this year’s IamExpat Fair will be the biggest we have ever hosted in The Hague.

thehague.iamexpatfair.nl

• Sign up for a Dutch language course • Explore the different expat-focused businesses

contact@iamexpatfair.nl

–expert

Dutch people’s high-level ability to speak English is often a factor when internationals are considering relocating. But what happens when children are added to the equation: Which language will we speak then? We were thrilled to interview Eowyn Crisfield in the field of linguistics–to learn more about how international families in the Netherlands can plan to raise their children multi-lingually.

Eowyn Crisfield, an Applied Linguist specialising in bilingualism and education, has over 20 years’ experience advising families and schools. Crisfield runs two companies: Raising Bilingual Children and Crisfield Educational Consulting, alongside her position as Senior Lecturer in English Language and TESOL (Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages) at Oxford-Brookes University, UK. Crisfield has been an expat for many years and is an avid lover of languages. She was determined to raise her children bilingually but as a Canadian Anglophone with a ‘mostly monolingual husband’, she quips, the path to that goal was not obvious.

Eowyn therefore decided, bravely and somewhat unconventionally, to proactively foster bilingualism in her children by speaking to them in French, her second language.

BY ANDVLACHOJANNISDAPHNEMIMIPOTVIN

Didyou know...Eowyn Crisfield hasauthored severalco-authoredandbooks.

CDCPHOTO:

Open dialogue Family Language Planning (FLP)–offered by Raising Bilingual Children–is a process that multilingual families can go through when considering the languages that are part of their family, the level of language proficiency they want their children to develop, and the creation of a plan ensuring the children get sufficient input in those languages.

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“I started doing FLP a very long time ago by giving seminars on raising bilingual children,” says Crisfield. “They were designed to give parents some key information on what it takes to raise children with multiple languages, and things they needed to think about from the research base.”

A life of languages

For some families, FLP is just a conversation to make sure both parents are on the same page. For others, it is a very formal process where they create a written plan and hire, for example, tutors or nannies to be part of it. FLP varies from being a light touch to quite formal, depending on the family’s complexity, how in-line the parents are, and how much control they want over their children’s language development.

PHOTO: BEN WHITE

OKUBOTOSHIROLEONARDOPHOTO:

Never give up. Just because you are not where you want to be at a particular time does not mean you can’t get there.

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» When Crisfield started doing this work, there was no field of study about Family Language Planning nor policies, and the topic was rarely discussed because someone was either in a multilingual society or not. The FLP process of developing resources and a framework grew out of experience helping families, figuring out what the key tensions were, and where the struggles lay. “I rolled all that input back into the resources I developed, which eventually became the book Bilingual Families: A Practical Language Planning Guide,” says Crisfield. “It was an accumulation of my work with families in that I provided the research base, and the parents provided the questions.” Set the tone Following her research and collaboration with parents, Crisfield identified three things families should keep in mind when thinking about a language plan.

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A life of languages

• Don’t underestimate the time it takes to fully develop a language. You don’t just plan for the first three years, you make an FLP for 18 years, and then your children keep it going.

• Never give up. Just because you are not where you want to be at a particular time does not mean you can’t get there. Not getting it right in the first year or two does not mean you should quit. Sometimes you just need to re-think your plan or bring others in.

The most difficult step in the study of language is the first step.

GORDONANNIKAPHOTO:

• Don’t get complacent. When children are young and spending lots of time with their parents, it all seems ‘automatic’. For example, mum speaks English, dad speaks Dutch, and their child is bilingual at three-years-old. Parents often take this as a sign they’ve done their job, but the first years are the easy part.

Language matters

In Crisfield’s experience, many families who never thought they needed FLP often reach out when their children are six- or seven-years-old. At that stage, children have started school in the ‘majority’ language usually Dutch or English–and parents are often taken by surprise by the impact of that. Families have also consulted with Crisfield because they had chosen, for whatever reason, not to pass on one of the family languages. “Sometimes parents

Giving voice After 20 years of working solo, Crisfield recently decided to expand her business. “It’s been something I was thinking about for a long time because FLP is a very involved process, and I would never do it with a family if I couldn’t do it right.” The weight of Crisfield’s professional obligations through her consulting companies and university position, plus transitioning from an international to a more local community, meant she couldn’t do as much FLP as she would have liked.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 17 received bad advice or were told they would make it harder for their children if they spoke multiple languages,” says Crisfield. “It makes me deeply sad to meet parents who realise when their children are six or seven, that they can’t communicate with them in the language of their heart.” Because of this, Crisfield encourages parents to start with the language(s) that hold the most meaning–you can always move away from them later if you need (want) to. Defaulting to the language you feel most connected with when parenting–whether a minority language, one you think your child will never need, or a language you only share with your grandparents–is so important because if you don’t get in those ‘minority’ (but meaningful) languages when your children are young, it can be impossible to do so later, says Crisfield.

In order to continue her Family Language Planning blog and website, she needed to find people to carry the torch. Crisfield met two individuals with the right qualifications, personality, and work ethic. “I was very happy to form a new team with Mimi Potvin and Daphne Vlachojannis who were willing to do the hard work and training so that they could do the FLP job well. As a team, we can do a lot more than I used to do on my own.” At Raising Bilingual Children, there are two main types of services offered to families: a 30-minute consultation with an FLP adviser about the family’s key questions, or a more in-depth three-part consultation (pre-session questionnaire, 90-minute meeting plus written FLP, and 60-minute follow-up “Wesession).have also started doing workshops for organisations and parent groups which has been a practical way to offer information to more families at once,” says Crisfield. If you are a bilingual family, are interested in FLP, would like more info, or want to book a consultation session, email Daphne: dvlachojannis@gmail.com or visit: onraisingbilingualchildren.com « About the authors Daphne Vlachojannis is a lawyer with the International Criminal Court and was Crisfield’s most long-standing client. Vlachojannis hired Crisfield as a language adviser when pregnant with her first child and returned with further questions when she had another. Along with Potvin, she is now Crisfield’s colleague.

Mimi Potvin, originally from Bulgaria, pursued her MA in English and Applied Linguistics at Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich. A CELTA-qualified English language trainer, she studied with Crisfield at Oxford-Brookes University where she completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Multilingual Learners.

MAXIMILIANCRISTOFERPHOTO:

Home working Duty of care extends to the home workplace–though employer obligations are then more limited than in an office or factory. Employer’s must ensure employees have an ergonomic workplace by providing a good desk, adapted monitor, adjustable chair, and associated aids.

More information

Dutch law stipulates that employers take certain measures–but whether employers have fulfilled their obligation is judged on a case-by-case basis.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 19 070 361 50 48 www.gmw.nl/en Law | Partner Feature

If you need to take legal action, our team of employment law experts can help you work it out.

Employers have a duty of care to employees, and an obligation to protect their health and safety.

Legalities

Call +31 (0)70 3615048 or use our online form. info@gmw.nl | gmw.nl/en | Scheveningseweg 52, 2517 KW Den Haag Information on author: gmw.nl

Employers must ensure regular (team) consultations and provide information about monitoring work-life balance. When work pressure becomes too high, it is also important for employees to raise the alarm in good time. Liability When employers don’t fulfill their duty of care towards employees, they can be held liable. If liability is established, employees may claim compensation for material and immaterial damages. Employment lawyers can explain your rights, risks and obligations and allow you to make the best possible decisions. «

But employers don’t automatically fulfill their duty of care by such actions–they must also respond adequately and timely to complaints regarding (sexual) harassment or discrimination, take complaints seriously, and investigate them properly.

The concept of damage covers physical and psycho logical–where the latter is particularly relevant in the context of sexual harassment. Harassment and discrimination Prevention of (sexual) harassment and discrimination in the workplace is also part of the employer’s duty of care. Employers might appoint confidential advisors and/or provide a complaints procedure.

SELIZ DEMIRCI

To prevent employees suffering damage (or injury) during the performance of their duties, employers must take measures including implementing policies, and giving safety instructions.

Employers must prevent employees from suffering damage in the performance of their duties.

With the advent of #MeToo, anti-discrimination measures, home-work policies, and increases in long COVID cases in the workplace, attention to employers’ duty of care increased. Employers are expected more than ever to ensure safe working Selizenvironments.Demirci,employment lawyer at GMW lawyers, discusses the content and scope of duty of care in light of current topics.

Duty of care doesn’t mean buying everything (new) for employees, but employer’s must establish that employees have a suitable home workplace. Prevention Employers must also implement policies preventing work pressure becoming too high, and employees suffering burnout. Limiting workload is part of this and also applies when working from home.

The dutyemployer's of care

Many of us have been there. You are in a foreign country, maybe for a year or two, and you make a vague promise to yourself to learn the language. That year or two (which often becomes a decade or two) passes. You still want to learn the language –and you already have the basics – but the locals are just too accommodating and willing to help you out by showcasing their own spectacular bilingualism. The upshot is that you are not quite ready to navigate War and Peace in Dutch but let’s be honest, you still want to read that latest thriller in English. Now, if only there were a local bookstore that could help… Turn a new leaf In 1972, the American Book Center (A.B.C.) was opened in Amsterdam by Sam Boltansky and Mitch Crossfield and was initially a bargain shop selling remainder books and magazines from America. Shortly thereafter, Boltansky and Crossfield were joined by fellow American Lynn Buller who was on holiday in the Netherlands. Their early success resulted in a second bookstore being opened in The Hague in 1976 and Buller’s (long) holiday looked set to continue even further.

Since the early 1970’s, the American Book Center in the Netherlands has been helping English speaking readers get their literary fix. But what is the secret of their ongoing success in the ever-changing world of books?

BY LEE HITCHCOCK

A.B.C.PHOTO'S:

20 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 Arts & Entertainment

foremployedOriginallytolookoutshoplifters,Bulleralongwithherfamily –eventually took over the A.B.C. in 1983 and the Kaplanian Buller’s still run the company today. Shelf life With half a century of staff – as well as years – behind it, endurance is synony mous with the American Book Center. Amid a highly volatile financial environment – even before “pandemic” became an everyday household word –the A.B.C. has had to be a

It’s as easy as A.B.C.

About the author Lee Hitchcock has been in the Netherlands for over a decade and is passionate about writing and literature. He lives in The Hague with his partner and daughters and loves to enjoy Scheveningen beach life. Didyou know...The American Book Centerhas stores in Amsterdam,The Hague and Leidschendam and is open sevendays a week at all threelocations.

On the same page

Self-described as “stubbornly independent”, they were one of the first bookstores to go online in the nineties. More recently, they acquired “Betty” – an Espresso Book Machine (EBM) – which allows the centre to provide a print-on-demand service, giving the local community an easily accessible hub for Suchself-publishing.community focus is pivotal to the importance of A.B.C. along with their regular open-mic sessions, book talks, signings, trade-in days, and blogs to keep their customers engaged. Added to this is a focus on diversity, allowing A.B.C. to also speak to a younger generation with pop-up stores at events like Comic Con, as well as offering an increasing selection of Young Adult (YA) literature, Manga and BookTok hits. Book smart Not all independent bookstores having been fortunate enough to survive the technological and economical challenges of the past decade and Lynn KaplanianBuller shared her view on what has allowed the American Book Center to continue for so long during times of perpetual change. “The A.B.C. is the ongoing story of how several people from all over the world – with no bookselling experience and just a container full of unsorted books –asked for help and grew some English language bookstores in a new land,” says Lynn. And indeed, it would seem that starting from scratch encouraged innovation and reduced fear of failure, as the A.B.C. now has more than 700 years of combined bookselling experience on its staff, as well as fresh talent to help teach about new trends. “We provide information and stories – brain food you might say – from booksellers with a personal touch,” says Lynn “and we encour age people to become authors by helping them to print their stories – because writers are readers, and readers are writers,” she adds.

Many still have an enjoyment – preference even –in going to the shops, and that love of the tactile has helped ensure that there is still a market for enterprises like the American Book Center. But longevity must be earned, and the A.B.C. is not without competition. In Amsterdam itself, there are several other English language bookshops, including book selling behemoth Waterstones. In The Hague, De Paagman now has two prime locations in the city including an entire area dedicated to English language books at its flagship store. And train st ation and high-street staples like AKO and Bruna also have dedicated English language sections at their shops around the country. Next chapter But competition can be good. And relevance and a healthy disruption of the norm have also been key to the American Book Center’s continuing durability.

It seems there is always something going on at the American Book Center and that the serendipity of connecting readers with books brings the team the most joy. The Netherlands is full of such hungry brains, teeming with interesting and interested individuals, and is a multicultural melting pot of people with an unquenchable thirst for literary input and societal connection. For as long as this appetite remains, the American Book Center is only too happy to keep on serving… Here’s to the next fifty! abc.nl «

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 21 survivor. And not only in terms of the technical revolution which has changed the way we consume our literature, but also in relation to devices such as Kindle and Audible, and the gargantuan rise in online shopping which has squeezed traditionally shop-bought items to the margins of retail society.

Feed me

BY MOLLY QUELL But very often the judges, lawyers, defendants, witnesses, and victims who appear at these courts do not share a common language. Behind the scenes, a small army of interpreters make these proceedings possible.

The first thing you need to know is that interpretation and translation are not the same. “Interpretation involves the spoken word, translation involves the written word,” says translator Christina Pribic´evic´Zoric´, who managed the interpretation and trans lation service at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. “It’s a common misconception,” she says. International courts need translators as well, and documents submitted as evidence along with legal filings must be accessible to all parties in a case. But it’s the interpreters who have the challenging job of simultaneously listening and speaking to ensure a court hearing is understandable to everyone in the room. More than words Written translation dates back through much of human history. The translation of the Hebrew Bible into Greek, known as the Septuagint, in the 3rd century CE is sometimes called the first major translation, but scholars have been translating stories from one language to another for longer. Buddhist monk Kuma¯rajı¯va, who lived from 344 to 411 CE, was famous in his lifetime for translating Sanskrit Buddhist texts into Chinese.

The Nuremberg trials, in which Allied countries prosecuted Nazi officials for war crimes, were simultaneously interpreted into English, Russian, German, and French in one of the earliest examples of widespread interpretation in court proceedings. “Whispered interpretation” – where the interpreter speaks directly into the ear of the person listening instead of an audience – had long been used by political leaders, but Nuremberg necessitated a largerscale approach. Some 600 headsets were used during the 10 months of hearings that saw 19 of the Nazi regime’s highest-ranking officials put on trial.

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Interpreting justice

International Community

Known as the international city of peace and justice, The Hague is home to some of the world’s most prestigious courts. War crimes and genocide are investigated and prosecuted and major disputes between nations are adjudicated.

OSEVENOPHOTO:

About the author Molly Quell is an American journalist based in Delft. She is The Hague correspondent for Courthouse News Service and a contributing editor at Dutch News. When not working, you’ll find her enjoying a beer and hanging out with her dog. Twitter: @mollyquell Guiding principles

“The work can be very stressful,” says Pribic´evic´Zoric´. Interpretation requires an incredible amount of focus. Interpreters at the International Criminal Court work for thirty-minute shifts before taking a break and always work in pairs. “So, someone can step in if needed,” she adds.

Life in translation

In recent years, the court has held cases with suspects from Syria, Ethiopia, Iraq, Rwanda, and Liberia. In fact, given the number of non-Dutch victims, the ongoing trial of four men charged with murder for downing Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 has been entirely interpreted into English.

Many courts deal with harrowing and gruesome tales of war crimes and genocide, which can take a toll on those who have to listen to the details for the duration of a trial. El Khamloussy remarks “It’s a tough but gratifying job.” «

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 23 More info If you would like to hear the interpreters speaking about their experiences, check-out Asymmetricalthe Haircuts podcast. category/episodesasymmetricalhaircuts.com/

Similar work is done at the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, the Kosovo Specialist Chambers and the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals which took over cases from both the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda when those institutions were wound down. They all call The Hague home. The Dutch judiciary also provides simultaneous interpretation for defendants who do not speak Dutch. The Hague District Court, sometimes jokingly referred to as “the busiest ICC in The Hague” has seen dozens of cases of non-Dutch speakers as Dutch authorities make use of a legal concept called universal jurisdiction to prosecute some crimes regardless of where they occurred.

According to Ahmed El Khamloussy who interprets French, English and Arabic at the International Criminal Court, there are different schools of thought as to how one faithfully interprets another’s words. Some argue an interpreter should be as calm and neutral as possible, others say that failing to convey the anger or fear someone is expressing masks the reality of what is being said. “It’s always a challenge,” he says. Open dialogue

The working languages of the International Criminal Court (ICC) are English and French but the Rome Statute, which created the court in 2002, requires that proceedings be available in a language the defendant “fully understands and speaks.” As the world’s only permanent court for the prose cution of war crimes and crimes against humanity, the institution has an obligation to victims to ensure hearings are understood as well. The court’s language service has more than 50 staff members and brings on freelance interpreters as needed. The court is currently conducting investigations or holding hearings in more than 30 languages.

Interpretation involves the spoken word, translation involves the written word.

Given the sensitive nature of trials like Nuremberg, interpreters are expected to adhere to a code of ethics to ensure they do not intentionally nor inadvertently sway proceedings. At the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, translators and interpreters were required to affirm they would “convey with the greatest fidelity and accuracy, and with complete neutrality, the wording used by the persons they interpret or translate.”

IB world school offering PYP, MYP and DP for students ages 3-18. Not-for-profit international school surrounded by green spaces with a focus on inquiry, creativity and independence.

• American School of The Hague

• The British School of Amsterdam Admissions: +31 70 512 10 60 ash.nladmissions@ash.nl

24 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022

Admissions: +31 20 751 66 50 winford-bilingual.nlinfo@winford.nl

Admissions: admissions@britams.nl +31 (0) 20 67 97 840 www.britams.nl

Winford Bilingual Primary School offers high quality bilingual primary education in English & Dutch. Our students follow the Dutch, UK, and IPC curricula. Located in Amsterdam and Haarlem.

From a single classroom in the early 1950s, to nearly 1,300 students, the ASH journey is rich with history and experiences that connect our community through the decades.

• Amity SchoolInternationalAmsterdam Admissions: +31 20 345 44 amityschool.nladmissions@amityamsterdam.nl81 Amsterdam

Forward looking, forward thinking: the best that British international education offers. A thriving school community which empowers everyone to be the very best they can be. Primary/GCSE/A Level – 3-18 years.

The Hague / WassenaarAmsterdam

• International School Delft Admissions: +31 15 285 00 38 or +31 15 820 02 internationalschooldelft.comadmissions@internationalschooldelft.org08 Delft

The HagueAmsterdam

• British School in The Netherlands

Primary*GCSE/A level*IBDP*IBCP*BTEC. International school for 3-18 years, 80+ nationalities. Inspiration & challenge for the whole child, creating global citizens who can build a better world.

IBPYP * IBMYP * will add IBDP. Young growing IB world school for 3-16 yrs. Caring international staff & community, focus on Innovation & Design.

• Winford Bilingual Primary School Admissions: britishschool.nladmissions@britishschool.nl

Schools: heart of the community

NORD INTERNATIONALANGLIASCHOOL ROTTERDAM ROTTERDAM INTERNATIONAL SECONDARY SCHOOL

Primary International school for 4-11 yrs. Differentiated curriculum, a safe and caring environment help foster and develop all children’s potential.

• Harbour International Admissions: +31 10 448 22 66 harbourinternational.nlveroniquez@harbouribsr.nl Rotterdam

IPC* IBMYP* IBDP*IBCP. We offer children aged from 4-18 high quality international education, inspiring personal excellence in our strong and diverse community.

• Rotterdam International Secondary School (RISS)

• International School of The Hague Admissions: +31 10 890 77 44 riss.wolfert.nladmissions.riss@wolfert.nlAdmissions: +31 70 328 14 50 ishthehague.nl

RotterdamThe Hague We open doors to learning and provide life-changing experiences that inspire and enable every child to fourish, now and in their future lives. Children from 3-18 on one site. IWSTH distinguishes itself through the integration of cognitive and artistic education. Our balanced educational approach addresses learning that occurs with the head, heart and hands.

• Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam (NAISR)

• HSV International School Admissions: +31 70 318 49 hsvid.nlid.admissions@hsvdenhaag.nl51

The Hague

RotterdamThe Hague

• International Waldorf School of The Hague Admissions: +31 10 422 53 51 nordangliaeducation.com/rotterdamadmissions@naisr.nl Admissions: +31 70 783 00 30 internationalwaldorfschool.nlinfo@iwsth.org

Academic institutions are communities of families, staff, students and support teams–the people ACCESS has been serving for more than 35 years. Below are the institutions who invest in us so we can continue to serve internationals throughout the Netherlands.

Preschool*Primary*Special Education. International Primary School offering international education to children aged 3-11 years old. Four locations in different areas of The Hague.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 25

Moving countries is hard but choosing the best IB school for your child shouldn't be... RISS offers a full range of programmes from its innovative foundation curriculum and IGCSEs to the IBDP and the IBCP.

26 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 Health & Wellbeing

BY ELIZABETH HEWITT

Over the past decade, Thuisgekookt has proven that connections forged over food can fight isolation and loneliness, improve health, and build a community. We find out more about this foundation which is not only satisfying stomachs but also nurturing neighbourhoods.

GAKTAMARAPHOTO:

Full of flavour

Twice a week, a 28-year-old woman in Nijmegen delivers a meal to a neighbour who lives three streets away. The neighbour is a woman about the same age. The two have a lot in common but the recipient has a mus cular disorder that makes cooking for herself difficult.

The power of a home- cooked meal

Through the foundation Thuisgekookt (home-cooked), she has arranged to get dinners from someone nearby on a regular basis. Years later, according to Thuisgekookt director Stéphanie van Gerven, the relationship that began based on food blossomed into a friendship between the two women.

“What makes our meals special is that someone has prepared them with love,” says van Gerven.

Thuisgekookt has since grown into a foundation that helps connect those who are in need of a home-cooked meal with cooks who are living nearby.

The concept of Thuisgekookt began a decade ago when the founder’s husband kept commenting about the delicious smells coming from their neighbour’s kitchen. Growing tired of her husband’s constant remarks, she went next door to ask the neighbours if they would be open to sharing portions of a meal. The idea proved to be a good one and that initial meal exchange grew into an informal WhatsApp group for the neighbourhood.

OUELLETANDREPHOTO:

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 27

On average, a meal costs €3 – €6. Kitchen connects Research has found that Thuisgekookt makes a difference. By building connections, older people can live independently in their homes for longer. The programme is also linked to improving physical and mental health, and reducing the burden on aid workers More info Thuisgekookt is currently available across the Netherlands, but the organisation is particu larly focused on making matches in 16 municipalities: Utrecht, Tilburg, Nijmegen. andGouda,Apeldoorn,Delft,Bosch,Haarlemmermeer,Arnhem,DenLeiden,Westland,Amstelveen,Hengelo,Velsen,EnschedeNieuwegein.

Thuisgekookt matches aren’t made at random. It’s a careful process. According to van Gerven, it’s almost like a dating service. When setting up a connection, Thuisgekookt looks at what type of food recipients would like to eat, and what the home cooks like to prepare. Sometimes recipients will specify that they enjoy a certain type of cuisine or indicate if they have a dietary restriction.

Well-seasoned Over time, Thuisgekookt has begun putting more focus on partnering local home cooks with neighbours in need of a meal on a more frequent basis, as opposed to a one-time only dinner. The organization is discontinuing its one-time online ordering platform as of September 2022.

» As easy as pie On paper, the idea is simple. When someone is cooking at home, they make extra portions and offer them to a neighbour. But the magic of Thuisgekookt is its ability to reach people in their homes who need a bit of connection or support. The meal arrangements made via Thuisgekookt have proven to be a valuable way to reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation. In the Netherlands, one-third of people over the age of 75 report feelings of isolation During the extended lockdowns of Covid-19, loneliness grew across all age groups Social.isolation can have an impact on an individual’s health and on communities, and studies have shown that people who are isolated have a higher risk of physical and mental health issues – ranging from depression to cognitive decline – to heart disease and high blood pressure.

Thuisgekookt interviews both the cooks and recipients, and finds matches living within 1.5 kilometres of each other. Meals only cost the price of the ingredients plus 10% extra going toward kitchen expenses, and another 10% to support the Thuisgekookt foundation.

Thuisgekookt is a small organisation, explains van Gerven. By focusing on building “durable connec tions”, the organisation can have a greater impact. Anyone in need of a regular meal for a longer spell can sign up. Although most recipients tend to be older people or those with a disability, the service is also available for those who are looking for support over a shorter time frame, like someone who has recently undergone surgery or is recovering from an illness. Food pairing When the pandemic kept people isolated at home, interest in Thuisgekookt exploded. In 2019 – before Covid-19 changed the world – Thuisgekookt arranged 285 partnerships between cooks and neighbours. In 2022, Thuisgekookt is poised to set-up 4,500.

FEEL LIKE YOU’VE Lived here Your whoLe Life EXPERIENCE LIFE IN THE NETHERLANDS AT IAMSTERDAM.COM/FEELINGATHOME 211115_half-page-ad_195x127,5mm_RGB.indd 1 15/11/2021 21:33 A unique, multilingual education for an extraordinary future. • English • Dutch • French The European School of Mol is open to all students aged 3-18. A relaxed, family feel pervades our leafy 20-hectare campus, which is located just 45 km from Eindhoven. Our school bus service ensures easy access. Europawijk 100, 2400 Mol, Belgium • www.esmol.be • pr@esmol.be • +32 14 563 111

Community of cooks Across the country, 20,000 people have signed up to be home cooks. For anybody who is interested in getting involved, the most important thing is that they like to cook, says van Gerven, but they don’t have to be an expert.

“We are not looking for top chefs,” she says. Many recipients look forward to the meal cooked by their neighbour as a special treat during the week. Meals are meant to be normal, healthy, and quality food – the type prepared for a favourite family dinner, not haute cuisine dining. Dishes like traditional Dutch stamppot (stew) or a vegetable-filled quiche are good options.

What makes our meals special is that someone has prepared them with

Healthlove. & Wellbeing | The power of a home-cooked meal

PHOTO: KEVIN MCCUTCHEON

Individuals who cook for their own dietary restrictions are welcome, notes van Gerven. Often meal recipients have particular dietary concerns, like gluten or lactose intolerance, so it can be convenient when they find a cook with a similar diet.

“It gives somebody the feeling that they are worth while.” thuisgekookt.nl « About the author: Elizabeth Hewitt is an American freelance journalist based in Nijmegen. She reports stories about local solutions to big problems and loves exploring Gelderland by bike and by foot.

In new cooks, Thuisgekookt is looking for people who can prepare delicious meals on a regular basis over a certain period of time. One of the other top criteria is outside the kitchen. Cooks need to have time to stop for a Buildingchat.social connections is key, says van Gerven.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 29

Thuisgekookt welcomes cooks from different backgrounds who prepare various cuisines, and this can also be a great way for people new to the Netherlands to meet people in their neighbourhood.

Thuisgekookt provides much more than just a meal, according to van Gerven. It’s about having someone who checks-in regularly and having somebody nearby to call when a difficult-to-reach lightbulb goes out. Many people who met through Thuisgekookt have even spent Christmas together or enjoyed other activities together.

BY JOANNA BOUMA

30 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 Dutch society The Netherlands is working towards making its public transport system completely accessible to people with disabilities. Its goal is that everyone can travel anywhere in the country independently. While things might not yet be perfect, it seems they are at least well on the way. “In most places, I can get in and out of trains, buses and trams independently”, says Jules, a mobile wheelchair user, “as the plat forms are now at the same level, and wider buses and trams are being used.” This is a far cry from a decade ago, however, when Jules had to either book help from the transport providers to get him in and out of the vehicle or rely on the help of muscular strangers. But Jules does recognise that making trains, buses, and trams more accessible to users of wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walkers, crutches and so on is an expensive and long-term project that cannot be achieved overnight.

Open to inclusivity

ACCESS spoke with an independent mobile wheelchair user and the parents of a child with Down Syndrome to get a deeper understanding of how they experience accessibility and inclusivity in the Netherlands.

LISANTOPHOTO:

More info These websites contain info about accessible tourism and travelling with a mobility aid.

Invisible children While speaking with the parents of Sofia, a child with Down Syndrome, they outlined that in their experience, children with mental disabilities like their daughter are ‘invisible’ in society in the Netherlands.

“We believe this stems from the country’s highlyorganised system of care which, with good intentions, tries to cater for children with diverse special needs,” they say. “However, what this ends up doing is to exclude children with special needs from regular schools and remove them from other children and the wider society,” they go on to add.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 31

This brings many benefits but in terms of education, once a child has a TLV, very few ‘regular’ schools will admit them so the child will be obliged to go to a ‘special’ school. Once there–and given that the school must cater for a wide spectrum of learning difficulties–few children learn effectively and thus in effect, forego their right to an education. Such special schools have protocols for various types of conditions, and the interaction between carers and children is predetermined. So, if a child does not respond in a certain way, there is no further stimulation and Sofia’s parents feel that this can hold back children instead of allowing them to develop to their full potential.

» Living in Amsterdam, Jules navigates the city with ease, knowing which stops are accessible and which are yet to be made so. He also knows that cities like The Hague, Rotterdam and Utrecht are making changes and he can check accessible stops on the transport providers’ apps. “The problem tends to be the historic streets that were built centuries ago for pedestrians and horses, rather than cars,” says Jules. “These are much narrower so will simply not fit modern-day public transport, let alone stops with accessible platforms”, he adds. Another issue comes when Jules goes to a rural railway station or uses local (regional) buses. Given the lower population density, renovating these stops is further down the list of priorities. But it also comes down to whether the demand by mobility aid users at such locations is lower, or if it is the inaccessibility which means less demand. These smaller public transport stops will be made more accessible at some point but for now, it seems that continued patience is required.

Building matters Accessibility to government buildings, museums, offices, blocks of flats, and so on has vastly improved in recent years. Disability access is being incorporated into new buildings, and many older buildings have also been fitted with ramps and lifts. However, what remains a problem are the historic buildings that only have staircases and are often so small that it is difficult to fit chairlifts–let alone ramps and lifts–inside. The same goes for restaurants, cafés, and public services situated inside historic buildings–which brings us to the topic of accessibility to toilets. Spend a penny While much attention is paid to ramps, lifts, and wide corridors, the same cannot be said in relation to accessible toilets. All too often entering buildings is the easy part. Using the sanitary facilities is not. Such spaces are often too narrow for mobility aids and in older buildings, going up or down a stairwell is often required too. This is a major area of exclusion that still needs to be addressed.

Jules recognises that limited space and the layout of historic buildings means “it is virtually impossible to make toilets accessible, but as a wheelchair user it means that before I can even think about going out for a drink, dinner or party, I have to check if the sanitary facilities are accessible at the location,” he says.

Children with learning difficulties have the right to a toelaatbaarheidsverklaring (TLV) which is literally a declaration of admissibility and gives a family the right to a grant to help support the child’s needs.

• wheelchairtravel.org • accessibletourism.org • accessibletravel.nl • travelers.htmpractical/disabled-tourism/information/holland.com/global/ • netherlandsaccessible-travel-hiddenholland.com/

OPENLANGEAMSTERDAMSPUI12THEHAGUEPOTEN23LEIDSCHENDAMWESTFIELDMALLKORNOELJE157DAYSAWEEK WWW.ABC.NL BOOKSELLERS WITH A PERSONAL TOUC H since 1972 WE FORAVAILABLEBREASTHAVEPUMPSPICK-UP24/7 AMSTERDAM, ROTTERDAM, UTRECHT, GOUDA & GORINCHEM 088INFO@MYPUMP.NL3636111

Unfortunately, the highly organised Dutch healthcare system often leads to a lack of contact between the public and children like Sofia. That said, in other European countries, care can be less structured and available so families – and society – must provide much (or all) of the care and education themselves.

In the picture

“While this does bring disadvantages to families,” say Sofia’s parents “it does help ‘expose’ society to children with special needs, and these children to Sofia’ssociety.”parents believe that if Sofia were more embed ded in society, she would get more mental stimulation than she currently does at her special school.

Dutch society | Open to inclusivity

KINDGEHANDICAPTEHETSTICHTING©PHOTO:

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 33

Looking at other aspects of accessibility and inclu sivity, Sofia’s parents share an interesting insight.

Complicated issues

We can all probably be more inclusive of others in our day-to-day lives – whatever their (or our) physical or mental situation, gender identity, ethnic background, personality, or style. It is true that over the past couple of decades, society has become more aware of acces sibility and inclusivity. Many things are improving but there is still a long way to go in the Netherlands and the rest of the world before every individual with their unique characteristics – is completely free to move about and live their life to the full. « About the author Joanna Bouma and her dog Cinta (which means ‘love’ in Malay) live in The Hague. Joanna is a freelance writer/editor/translator and enjoys nature, hiking and playing badminton (which she plays very badly!). Cinta enjoys walks and food. We are not defined by our disabilities, but instead by our capabilities.

There are a lot of public playgrounds of all types and sizes scattered around The Hague and surrounding areas which are open and welcoming to children to run in and play. “This is wonderful for most children, but not for Sofia,” they say, “as she could suddenly run off and before we know it, end up on the road.” Children like Sofia need a playground that is contained by a fence. So, unless Sofia is under very close supervision, she simply cannot use such public playgrounds which further highlights differences to be addressed. Next to that, such situations only serve to keep Sofia away from other children, and the wider society in general.

“All of our learning follows the children’s interests. The Early Years curriculum gives us the freedom to offer a tailored approach to all children ensuring that everyone makes progress,” explains Vicki Broderick, Assistant Headteacher at Junior School Vlaskamp (JSV).

Education | Partner Feature

34 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022

Children must develop over 30 muscles in their hands before they form shapes and letters with control. In Foundation 1, children do this by cutting with scissors, using tweezers to pick up small objects and even hammering small boards.

Did you know that you can apply for a place in the Foundation Stage any time? The Admissions team will be happy to arrange a tour of the Foundation Stage and answer any questions. There will also be an opportunity to learn more about how your child will flourish in the Foundation Stage at the Beginner’s Open Morning events in early November. « Contact our friendly Admissions team via Admissions@britishschool.nl or call + 31 (0) 70 315 4077.

Your child’s love of learning doesn’t have to wait.

Did you know that children need to strengthen their fine and gross motor skills to prepare to write?

“Play-based learning allows children to construct knowledge themselves by allowing children to ‘learn through doing’. During play, everything is an experiment, and if something does not work as a child has planned, they are safe to try again,” says Fiona Aartsen, Assistant Headteacher at Junior School Leidschenveen (JSL).

During Physical Education, one of the weekly speciality lessons, children swing on ropes and climb structures. They develop confidence, challenge themselves and strengthen those necessary larger and core muscles needed for writing and future learning.

Admissions: 070 315 www.britishschool.nladmissions@britishschool.nl4077

Building strong foundations Starting your child in school or keeping them in childcare or at home a bit longer is a personal decision for families, and many factors go into this decision.

The approach to teaching and learning in the Foundation Stage at the BSN complements children’s instinctive desire to investigate, explore and ultimately understand how their world works.

At The British School in The Netherlands (BSN), children from age three can join the Early Years Foundation Stage. This learning environment encourages exploration, independence, creativity, curiosity, and fun for children. Each child is sup ported to progress and develop learning behaviours.

Did you know that your child can start school from the age of three?

Did you know that children are more likely to retain knowledge when learning through play?

Concepts and skills are introduced to the children through hands-on activities that allow experiential learning and may look like “just” play.

In Foundation 1, children develop both areas through intentional and fun activities!

Access is ac ces sing the world strives to be more inclusive, how are bicycles and cycle paths helping create an equal society and making life more accessible for people with different physical and/or intellectual abilities.BYOLIVIAVAN DEN BROEK-NERI

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 35

»

Severinus clients who are wheelchair bound are also able to experience a bicycle ride with the aid of a wheelchair bike that has a flat space in front of the bicycle, allowing a wheelchair to be attached. At Severinus, this type of wheelchair bike is used for those who are severely handicapped, giving clients the possibility to enjoy the freedom of a bicycle ride. “To be outside, feel the wind, hear the birds…”

Dutch Lifestyle NAYLANORALIPHOTO:

As

Severinus is a healthcare organisation in Veldhoven (North Brabant) for people of all ages with intellectual disabilities. The organisation uses several bicycle types enabling clients to experience the pleasure of cycling, including special bikes for those who are perhaps unable to cycle on their own. “We offer duofietsen (a side-by-side cycle), three-wheelers, and tandems,” says Hannah van Duivenbode, Volunteer Coordinator, “which allow the client to sit in front and be able to see what’s happening.” Hannah points out that such bicycles take a lot of skill to manoeuvre because the person who is steering the wheel is sitting behind. “It’s our colleague who is doing the main workout,” she says. Although the duofiets is electric, the tandem bicycle is not. However, it is possible to connect two duofietsen to each other which means one of Hannah’s colleagues can cycle with three clients at one time. “In such cases, you really need the electric support,” she says. “It’s way too heavy to cycle on your own.”

“But when you see someone on a bicycle or tricycle in a more ‘traditional location’, you don’t automatically think of them as mobility challenged.” Cycle paths give such individuals a freedom that they might not have in other parts of the world, allowing those with a disability to get around without neces sarily being dependent on others. “It comes down to autonomy and freedom of movement,” says Melissa.

Freewheeling

The possibility of getting around without an auto mobile attracts many internationals. “Being able to bike everywhere here makes our lives really easy,” says Nuno Curado–originally from Portugal and currently living in Eindhoven. After living in the Randstad (Amsterdam-The Hague-RotterdamUtrecht region) and enjoying the accessibility the Netherlands offers to those without automobiles, Nuno returned to Portugal. One of the things he missed most was that ease of mobility.

“And we all want that.”

When Nuno and his family returned to the Netherlands in 2019, his daughter was one-and-a-half-years-old, and he had a request. “One of the deals I made with my wife was that she had to buy me a bakfiets,” he says. Nuno had his heart set on a bakfiets (cargo bike) because he wanted to take his daughter places, and a bakfiets would ensure that she would not only be comfortable but have space for her belongings. Find out more smobycon.nleverinus.nl Being able to bike everywhere here makes our lives really easy.

36 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 Dutch Lifestyle | Access is accessing Hannah explains, “and to have the experience of going faster than if someone were just in their wheelchair.” However, too much stimulation is also not good. “For some clients, it is overwhelming to be outside or to see/experience things for more than 15 to 30 minutes.”

BRUNTLETTCHRISANDMELISSAPHOTO:

“The lovely red pavement that makes cycling so easy has become a common space not only for able-bodied individuals but also for those of us with physical limitations,” says Melissa Bruntlett, Urban Mobility Advisor and Advocate at Mobycon (an independent consultancy firm for mobility issues). “It’s not just people who are on two, three or four wheels anymore–you see people in walkers and using mobility scooters on cycle paths too.”

Severinus also works with volunteers who accompany less severely disabled clients on bicycle rides. How far they go is solely dependent on the client but most importantly for Severinus is that all their clients get to experience cycling just like everyone else. We go together Getting around is different the world over. The desig nated cycle paths in the Netherlands allow people to go from point-to-point without an automobile.

Cycle paths are for everyone and contribute to putting us all on a level playing field. “We forget that people with disabilities can be ‘invisible’,” says Melissa.

PHOTO: MELISSA AND CHRIS BRUNTLETT

On the open road But what about those who cannot walk. How do they navigate and get around?

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 37 Nuno got his bakfiets and has enjoyed using it to get around and travel with his daughter, taking trips to the market and–during the height of the pandemic–being able to take her exploring outdoors. “We spent our time cycling around and visiting areas near our Somehome.”people still insist that they need an automobile for certain journeys. But in Nuno’s personal experi ence, “there is always an excuse, but it is perfectly possible to carry stuff on your bike.” Aside from transporting his daughter, Nuno also uses his bakfiets for big purchases. “I once bought a 40-inch LCD plasma screen and brought it home on my bakfiets,” he beams. “With time, you just adapt to being able to carry everything on your bike. You are walking, and the bike is carrying the stuff for you.”

The possibility to use a scoot mobile on cycle paths is an enormous emancipation–not only for people with a disability but also for the elderly or anybody who has mobility challenges, says Maya. “If you have a scoot mobile, you can really do everything by yourself.” Maya uses her scoot mobile in her daily life and a bicycle for leisure–a sport wheelchair that has a lower back and another wheel that you connect to the front. “You access the wheels with your hands instead of your legs,” she explains. This special bicycle also allows Maya to experience nature. “I love the fact that there are cycle paths in nature areas too,” she says. “This is something that is so unique to the Netherlands.” The Netherlands is making progress when it comes to facilitating accessibility and providing mobility aids for the those in need. Next time you are biking, perhaps you will look differently at fellow users of the cycle paths. « About the author: California-native Olivia van den Broek-Neri works as Project Coordinator Communications & Events at Holland Expat Centre South in Eindhoven and was previously an ACCESS volunteer. Didyou know...There are over 22 million bicycles withthe Netherlands–compared inapproximately17millionresidents–and20,000kms.ofcyclepaths.

“My mobility issue grew with time because of the progressive nature of multiple sclerosis,” says Maya Levi. A few years ago, Maya landed in a wheel chair but the cycle paths in the Netherlands have enabled her to maintain her independ ence. “I started using them because I got a scoot mobile for the first time,” she says. “This was a real eye-opener for me as I had not experienced the cycle paths before because I was not cycling.”

A home for expat life stories Interested in our archival collection? We welcome researchers from all disciplines We offer volunteer opportunities in an international work environment We preserve the life stories of expats worldwide for future research. We want to preserve your memories Have you been an expat? Love history? www xpatarchive com welcome@xpatarchive.com Winford Bilingual Primary School has opened in Haarlem Bilingual education for ages 4-12 We follow the Dutch and UK National Curricula, and link them together with the International Primary Curriculum • All subjects are taught 50% in Dutch and 50% in English • Small class sizes allow us to focus on each individual child • Two fully qualified teachers per classroom • Flexible holidays winford-bilingual.nl | winford.nl email: info@winford.nl FLUENT IN TWO LANGUAGES We would love to show you around!

Proactive students

Student-led Clubs One such club is our Global Issues Network (GIN) which in the past ten years has led a number of initiatives that have then been taken on by smaller groups and become part of our everyday life at school. An example is the PlastISH Club who collect plastic packaging and bottles in and around school, then recycle them on the campus into useful and decorative items. Breaking free from Indifference Back in June, GIN was planning their annual GIN Day where a number of other schools around the Netherlands came together to discuss the theme 'Breaking free from indifference'. Experts in their fields were invited to deliver lectures on the very latest thinking on the environment and students joined (student-led) workshops to generate ideas for initiatives to overcome the challenges discussed.

At ISH we're very fortunate to be situated in an area of rare natural beauty and we don’t take this for granted. We give our students the tools to go out into the world to help others also benefit from a safe, clean and sustainable way of life. We have a duty to inspire this coming generation from within so that they can shine a light on the path for change. « We have a duty to inspire this coming generation so that they can shine a light on the path for change.

Our vision is to ‘To shape a better future for all: inspiring students to become compassionate and proactive global citizens’ and the climate is at the centre of this future. We’re proud to have been awarded our first Eco-Schools Green Flag in June 2012, and are currently working towards our 4th flag!

The International School of The Hague (ISH) takes the global environmental challenges ahead very seriously.

070 328 14 50 ishthehague.nl

Another important event our proactive students are hosting this year is the Eco-Schools Dutch International Secondary Schools’ Inspiration Day. Eco-teams from each Dutch international school will descend on the ISH campus to share knowledge and ideas focusing on the theme of sustainability. This workshop driven event aims to inspire students to proactively initiate, develop and improve on their school's eco-team projects.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 39 Education | Partner

Students are at the heart of the school’s commitment to the environment and there are a number of studentled clubs and societies driving this agenda throughout the school year.

ShapingFeaturea better future for all

olive oil•

SILVASANDRAPHOTO:

It is therefore no surprise that when foreign nationals begin a life in another country, the recipes from home will make the journey too. From Minho to me

The Netherlands might not be the first place one thinks about upon hearing caldo verde . But this traditional Portuguese green soup has recently taken on a distinctly orange flavour. Let’s find out more.

•Ingredients:verde 1.5kg peeled and washed(mashing) potatoes - roughlychopped • 150–200g boerenkool - shredded• 1 large (or 2 medium) onion(s)- cut into quarters• ½ a garlic clove - peeled• 150g smoked Portuguese meatsausage (chouriço) - available inPortuguese specialist shops• 1–2

A key part of any culture is the food. There is nothing quite like travelling to broaden the mind and enrich the soul, and when you include the sampling of local cuisine it adds a whole new dimension. Food has the clever knack of conjuring up childhood memories and recollections of holidays and special moments…

40 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022

Just like the Netherlands, Portugal takes its food very seriously and for a relatively small country, it manages to dish up an enormous wealth of variety and quality. With regional influences peppering the land, one

Food Flavours that roam

BY SANDRA SILVA Caldo tbsp. 1½ tsp. salt

Home thoughts from abroad

Celebrated fado singer Amália Rodrigues (1920–1999) also immortalized the soup in the song "Uma Casa Portuguesa" (A Portuguese House) with the lyrics: “it's just love, bread and wine, and a caldo verde steaming green in the bowl". Many Portuguese considered this song to be a second National Anthem even… With such impressive accolades, it is no surprise that CNN Travel labelled caldo verde as one of the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Gastronomy. Stirring the pot

• Place potatoes in another pan, add the onion, garlic, and a teaspoon of salt. Add 1.5 litres of water and bring to the boil.

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 41

Cultural caldo Despite humble origins – caldo verde started out as a dish for the less affluent – references to the soup can be found in prestigious works of Portuguese literature by Camilo Castelo Branco, Júlio Dinis, Eça de Queirós, Ramalho Ortigão and Fernando Pessoa during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

• Reduce heat and cook for 20–25 minutes (or until potatoes are soft). Remove the pan from the heat and use a hand blender to mix to a smooth purée.

Didyou know...

• Drain off the boerenkool and add to the purée along with the olive oil. If desired, add some slices of chouriço and mix well.

• Cook the entire mixture for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently (if a “thinner” soup is preferred, just add a little more water).

• Pour into individual bowls and serve – you can also add more slices of chouriço on top. Enjoy! (Bom apetite. Smakelijk eten). « About the author Sandra Silva is a Portuguese teacher and city guide living in Almere who is passionate about photography, travel, art, history, and storytelling. www.sandrastours.nl | @sandrastoursnl

Method

• Place boerenkool in a pan with enough water to cover. Add a good pinch of salt and leave to boil for a few minutes.

Vinho Verde(green “young” wine)can be red, white,or rosé. staple that can be found in homes and restaurants up and down the country is caldo verde – a green soup from the Minho province of northern Portugal. Eat your greens

A key ingredient of caldo verde is couve galega which is a Portuguese cabbage cut into very thin strips to soak up as much flavour as possible when com bined with the modest ingredients of potatoes, garlic, olive oil, and onion. However here in the Netherlands, this traditional couve galega is being replaced with boerenkool (kale) which creates an equally temp ting bowl of goodness, with a delicious Dutch twist. Fables of old Dating back to the fifteenth century, caldo verde is generally offered as a light supper or a starter in a three-course meal. Customarily served in earthen ware bowls – known as tigela – the soup is largely eaten in Portugal during the festival of saints in June and at New Year’s Eve, but it is also popular enough to be enjoyed all year through… and thanks to Dutch boerenkool, this is now also true in the Netherlands.

The basic caldo verde green soup is vegetarian but the addition of chouriço (a Portuguese sausage) will ensure the dish appeals to meat fans too. And if you want to complete the Portuguese experience, why not have broa (Portuguese cornbread) and a glass of Vinho Verde wine (also from Minho) on the side. Caldo verde is Portuguese comfort food at its best and – now that we can recreate the recipe here in the Netherlands – it means that home is not that far away after all.

BY GIULIA QUARESIMA

AUTUMN

42 | ACCESS |

It’s 1987. It’s Amsterdam. It’s the end of the Cold War, and hope and freedom have started to re-shape the city. The rise of the club scene – and its somewhat dark underbelly – along with an increase in technological developments in the Netherlands, the prolific use of “love-drug” XTC, house music, free sex and the AIDS epidemic, all feature in this original Dutch production by creator and director Pieter Bart Korthuis.

TAYLORTRACEYPHOTO:

Between the lines Based on the book 06-Cowboys by Fred Saueressig (Marketing Director of one of the most famous sex line platforms in Europe), Dirty Lines is told through the eyes and voice of Marly Salomon (Joy Delima) who is a psychology student looking for a job to pay her rent. By chance, she meets brothers Ramon Amsterdam calling Dirty Lines was released on Netflix in April 2022 and is a series of six episodes set in 1980’s Amsterdam. It tells the story of the development and the rise and fall of the first phone sex line in Europe.

2022 Review

Dirty Lines has a fast-paced and dynamic rhythm, resulting in fluid and lively narration and a sound track enriched by classics of the early 1990’s.

The characters are immersed in the revolu tion which is impacting their lives, and results in a keen insight into their formative years whilst also touching on ethics and freedom of choice. The accurate historical backdrop and seeing Amsterdam and its technology and culture transform over time was particularly enjoyable. One to watch! « About the Author Italian native Giulia Quaresima lives in The Hague and has been writing for ACCESS since 2019.

Some think Amsterdam is a city of sin, but in truth it is a city of freedom.Didyouknow...

Teledutch quickly becomes a huge economic success – finding a niche in the vibrant and free-thinking environment that is coming to life in the Netherlands.

The university scenes inDirty Lines were filmedat Tilburg University,the Netherlands.

Ramon wastes money on expensive cars and luxurious homes, and suddenly has to take on the new role of a father. Frank must deal with questions about himself, the life he has built and the person he is becoming.

KANGRANGYESHIPHOTO:

There is also an insight into the revolutionary society of the 1980’s – from sex to love, family to school and music to fashion. As the story develops, Marly also focuses on the taboo of sex – despite the popularity of the phone sex line – and an analysis of same from a psychological perspective. Everything changes Even with the success of their company, brothers Ramon and Frank have struggles to contend with.

Cultural Chaos

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 43 (Chris Peters) and Frank (Minne Koole) Stigter who have launched Teledutch – the first Europeanbased company to use phones as sex lines – and Marly finds a role in the company as the voice of the sex line tape recordings. Call me

The younger generation is embracing excesses and voyeurism in response to escalating tensions between old and new, along with conflicts between conformity amongst middle-class families, and growing issues of life on the outskirts of the city.

Meanwhile, Marly’s parents can’t accept her new job nor her choice to study sexology and she is forced to leave home. In addition to some dramatic storylines – including conflicts with families, friends, and society – there are also funny moments in the series. At one point the Teledutch phone sex line gets so jammed with callers that it practically takes down the country’s entire phone network!

We thank and acknowledge the following for their support and trust.

• Angela Fusaro • Caitriona Rush • Caroline van den Bogaard • Colleen Reichrath-Smith • Connecting Women • Empower Amsterdam • Janet Rodenburg • Jonathon Regan • Marie Dewulf • Natália Leal • Rawia Liverpool

ACCESS

Amsterdam •

• Angelika Matthias •

• British

• IN Amsterdam • International Welcome Centre Utrecht Region • Sapienza Consulting • TU Delft (Coming to Delft Services)

• Veena Joseph • Volunteer The Hague • Women’s Business Initiative International WhetherRelocatingyouare planning a relocation to the Netherlands, or have recently arrived and are getting settled.

• Mynta Law Immigration Lawyers • Prijsvergelijken

• !WOON • Expat Help • Expat Mortgages My Dutch Mortgage Online MLP Real Estate Student Experience Learning & Education For children as well as adults, includes language centres/schools. Alison Bradshaw • American Book Center • ABC English American School of The Hague Amity International School Beatriz Laus • British School in the Netherlands School of Amsterdam Direct Dutch Institute Harbour International HSV International International School Delft International School of The Hague International Waldorf School The Hague Karin Holley Lelia Spada Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam Rotterdam Secondary School SPEAK Winford Bilingual School Ute Limacher-Riebold Network Ann Kuis Caroline

• Teresa Moynihan • Toastmasters of The Hague

• Worley Dual Career Support For the particular needs and interests of accompanying spouses/partners the following may be of value.

• Big Ben Kids • Johanne Bade • Kinderopvang 2SAMEN • Sunshine Au Pair • True Colors Childcare • Vertaalbureau Urgent Vertalen • Villa Bloom • Zein Childcare TheHousingservices of these partners speak for themselves and cover your housing needs.

Primary

Counselling

van Diest • Carolyn Tabak • Cristina Baroncelli • Danielle Hollreiser • Drew Puxty • Jeanine Souren • Karolina Fotyga • Katrina Antezana • Lysanne Sizoo • Mariza Thanapoulou • Marquerite Gallagher • Nuria Maldonado Bellido • Ophirah Toff • Patric Esters • Rosie Glicklich • Sivan Weinstein • Stephen Davies • Sylvia Silberg

Acknowledging our Partners, Counsellors, Trainers & Volunteer Managers

AnotherHealthcarecategory which speaks for itself, and includes members of our ACCESS Trainers Network.

• ABN AMRO • Amsterdam International Community • Expat Help • FVB De Boer • GMW Advocaten (Legal Expat Desk)

• Amstelveen Municipality • City of Delft • European Medicines Agency (EMA) • European Space Agency/ESTEC • Expat Centre Leiden • Expat Help • The Hague International Centre

Thank you for helping ACCESS Daycare,Childcareafter-school care and support for your children.

• De Boezemvriend • Chitra Natarajan • Jac Rongen • Jacinta Noonan • Linda Bosma Malley • Meida van Baal • Maggie Bijl • Sandra Delgado Quist • Truus Gale

Government & Patrons

44 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022

ACCESS is grateful for many things, not the least, the work of our strong and diverse volunteer community. They do the work – but the partners invest in us so that we are able to carry out our mission to serve the international community. Should you make use of them, do mention ACCESS referred you. Should you wish to help us serve the international community and include you in our acknowledgements, get in touch with prd@access-nl.org Partners, Counsellors & Trainers

International

ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 | 45 Executive Director Deborah edirector@access-nl.orgValentine Finance (open) Social Media Sylvia Radovan Website Master Elizabeth Carrion The Hague International Centre Fiona Duterloo-Barraclough IN Amsterdam Tiina Weman International Welcome Centre Utrecht Region Tracey Rudge Expat Centre Leiden Roxana Stoica Amstelveen Helpdesk Neera Lamba Helpdesk Department Alessandra Gatta Helpdesk Support Team Antonio Gutierrez and Silvana De Gregorio Information Research Mauren Lopez Pons Volunteer Resources Sara Silva Santos Volunteer Newsletter Editor Lisa Nield Community Education Qin Cai and Natália LealWant to be a part of our team? Information about volunteering with ACCESS and when we have Information Sessions in QR code below. Childbirth Courses Bintou Keita and Jodie Crockford First Aid Courses Qin Cai Counselling Services Qin Cai, Patric Esters, Lysanne Sizoo Computer Services John Pellet Operations Manager Ms Qin manager@access-nl.orgCai External interface External locations Central infrastructure ACCESS Teams Public Relations/Events Carolina Fernandez Relationship Management Crescence Martimort and Karen Hennessy-Massaro Magazine Editor Tracey Taylor Welcome to Delft Shauma (Kitty) Lannaki EMA support Deborah Valentine Patron Programme (open)

46 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2022 Join us on a plant-based culi nary tour around the country… Discover tattoo artists at work in the Netherlands… Information and support for internationals… Dutch mortgages and buying a home in the Netherlands… Blooming delicious Life in Ink ACCESS at 35! A home of your ownACCESSCommunity & Media Partners Our community partner groups and initiatives are listed below for additional support and information. Looking for something else, missing your community? Get in touch with our Helpdesk so we can help you further. • American Women's Club of The Hague • Amsterdam International Community • Amsterdam Mamas • Broadcast Amsterdam • Delft MaMa • Dutch BuzZ • DutchNews • ExpatINFO Holland • Expatriate Archive Centre • Expats Utrecht • Expat Republic • Families in Global Transition • Here in Holland • i am not a tourist (IANAT) bv • IamExpat • International Locals Amsterdam • M-space Graphic Designers • STET (English Theatre) • TheHagueOnline • Xpat Media Scan the QR codes below to navigate to one of our previous articles / featured posts. The ACCESS website is also full of interesting information about moving to and living in the Netherlands. Read more about it... Travel ACCESS FeaturesArts & Entertainment ACCESS Features PHOTO: LIFES A PEACH PHOTO: KATSU ILLUSTRATION: LILIAN VARGAS-MELEZA PHOTO: MATEO KRÖSSLER

As the leading provider of English-speaking and bilingual childcare services in the Netherlands, finding enthusiastic and dedicated staff who have a true passion for teaching, developing and caring for children is one of our top priorities.

Alongside roles for qualified teachers, we offer places on the popular Zein Academy International Talent Programme (ITP). Through the ITP, enthusiastic candidates follow a professional training programme tailored to their prior (international) work experience and educational background to obtain a recognised childcare teaching diploma.

With over 160 staff representing 40 nationalities, Zein really is ‘setting the standard’ in the international makeup of its workforce.

English-speaking & bilingual (Dutch-English) Day Care, Pre-School, After School Care & Holiday Camps

Start a new chapter of your career with Zein International Childcare

As the leading provider of English-speaking and bilingual childcare services in the Netherlands, finding enthusiastic and dedicated staff who have a true passion for teaching, developing and caring for children is one of our top priorities.

Do you like the idea of working in a friendly team of colleagues of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds? Are you looking for a full-time, part-time, or flexible position? If so, then Zein could be just what you’re looking for!

Are you interested in working for a truly unique international childcare organisation, with children from all over the world? with Zein International Childcare Start a new chapter of your career

Visit www.zeinchildcare.nl for more information.

Day Care Pre-School After School Care Holiday Camps

Alongside roles for qualified teachers, we offer places on the popular Zein Academy International Talent Programme. Through the ITP, enthusiastic candidates follow a training programme tailored to their prior (international) work experience and educational background to obtain a recognised childcare teaching diploma. Visit www.zeinchildcare.nl for more information.

With over 160 staff representing 40 nationalities, Zein really is ‘setting the standard’ in the international makeup of its workforce.

Are you interested in working for a truly unique international childcare organisation, with children from all over the world?

Do you like the idea of working in a friendly team of colleagues of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds? Are you looking for a full-time, part-time, or flexible position? If so, then Zein could be just what you’re looking for!

RISS IBCP RISS once more has thrilling news! We are newly accredited for the innovative and highly regarded IB Career-related Programme. ROTTERDAM INTERNATIONAL SECONDARY SCHOOL Check out our special page on our website! Combining academic and vocational learning, the IBCP is a new and exciting route to higher education and the world of work, which builds on our unique real-world, practical foundation and middle years curriculum. Admissions information: admissions.riss@wolfert.nl +31 (0)10 890 77 44 | riss.wolfert.nl Follow us on:

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