A continuous learning journey
At OIA, we offer one connected international learning journey from Early Years through Secondary. With small classes and teachers who know their students, children grow in confidence, skills and independence. Our two campuses sit directly opposite each other in Hoofddorp, bringing Primary and Secondary together within one school community.
Founded in 2018 as Optimist International School, we became Optimist International Academy in 2026, expanding to include Secondary education. As a publicly funded school and part of the Dutch International Schools network, we combine an international outlook with a strong connection to the Netherlands.
Why OIA?
Multilingual
Many languages, one community
Confident communication across languages and cultures, embracing multilingualism as a strength in every classroom
Inclusivity
Everyone belongs
An open, caring community where every student feels seen, respected and free to be themselves.
Continuous learning pathway
One connected learning journey
A connected, inquiry-led learning journey that nurtures curiosity, independence and personal growth.
Learn more about admissions
Learn more about how to apply for Primary or Secondary and start your family’s journey at OIA.
Questions about joining OIA
OIA welcomes internationally mobile families. As a publicly funded international school, we follow Dutch government eligibility requirements. These generally cover international families temporarily working in the Netherlands, Dutch families returning after a qualifying period of schooling abroad, and Dutch families preparing for a qualifying overseas posting.
Our admissions team will help you check your family’s eligibility and discuss the appropriate year group. See our Admissions page for the full criteria.
For the 2026–2027 school year, annual tuition fees are €5,765 for Primary and €7,500 for Secondary. OIA receives Dutch government funding; these fees cover the additional costs of international education.
There is also a one-time, non-refundable application fee of €200 and a refundable deposit of €500, subject to the conditions in our fees policy. Fees are calculated proportionally for students joining during the school year. See our Admissions Procedure and Tuition Fees for payment options, inclusions and additional charges.
Students join OIA with different levels of English. In Primary, children can begin while still developing their English, with classroom support and specialist English as an Additional Language (EAL) support where needed.
For Secondary, we consider English proficiency alongside previous schooling and the requirements of the programme. Our admissions team will discuss your child’s language profile and support needs with you. Across both schools, we value and support students’ home languages.
Joining during the school year is possible, subject to eligibility, available places and our ability to meet your child’s educational needs. Our admissions team will discuss a suitable placement and start date with you.
If a place is not immediately available, your child may be placed on a waiting list. Contact admissions for current availability in your child’s year group.
Both campuses are in Hoofddorp’s Floriande district, directly opposite each other:
OIA Primary: Dussenstraat 34, 2134 DL Hoofddorp.
OIA Secondary: Baron de Coubertinlaan 2, 2134 CG Hoofddorp.
Our location is close to Schiphol, Amsterdam and Haarlem. If you would like to visit, contact our admissions team to discuss the options for Primary or Secondary.
A glimpse into everyday learning
See curiosity in action. From classroom discoveries to collaborative projects and memorable moments, these short videos offer a window into life at OIA.
Contact
OIA Primary
- Dussenstraat 34, 2134 DL Hoofddorp
- +31 23 303 5924
- info@optimist-international-school.nl
OIA Secondary
- Baron de Coubertinlaan 2, 2134 CG Hoofddorp
- +31 23 562 0963
- info@oia-secondary.nl