For children from 5 to 18 years of age
5 to 16 years: compulsory education
After your son or daughter's fifth birthday, your child is subject to compulsory education. This means that he or she must attend school on the first school day in the month following the birthday. For example, if your child turned 5 on October 10, he or she must attend school on the first school day in November. This compulsory education ends at the end of the school year in which your child turns 16.
16 to 18 years: compulsory qualification
For a good position in the labor market, your child needs a starting qualification. That is a diploma at least at MBO 2 or havo/vwo level. The obligation to obtain a starting qualification applies to all young people up to the age of 18. The vmbo diploma does not count as a starting qualification. This means that after obtaining the vmbo diploma, your son or daughter is obliged to continue studying at mbo or havo in order to obtain a starting qualification.
The consequences if your child ages 5 to 18 is a (long-term) absentee
The most important thing is that your child returns to school or other appropriate education as soon as possible. School is important because with a diploma, your child has a better chance of getting a good job and earning his or her own income later. School and Compulsory Education therefore want to take quick steps with you and possibly your child to prevent further (long-term) school absenteeism of your child.
1. Your school contacts
If your child is absent without notice, the school will first contact you and possibly your child (age 12 and up) to find out what is going on. If necessary, school may organize additional Health around your child. School is obliged to report absenteeism to the school attendance officer.
2. An investigation is initiated
The school attendance officer will begin an investigation into your child's absence and will also meet with you and with your child if he or she is 12 or older. Together, you will discuss what is needed for your child to return to school quickly.
3. Heavier measures
If the absenteeism persists, the school attendance officer may take lighter or more severe measures. This depends on the situation.
