Search by subject?

Type your subject here

Declining student numbers.

The population decreases in different regions of the country. This also affects education. Schools notice this by fewer enrollments. There has been a decline in education for some time. Some schools even face problems.

Causes of the decline

The population decline has several causes:

  • Fewer children are born
  • Families with children move to bigger cities
  • Youth and highly educated people move to bigger cities

It is expected that the number of students will keep decreasing in the next years. Secondary education will also face this.

Effects of the decline

Declining areas can become less attractive for businesses or young residents. Companies may find it hard to get enough suitable staff in these areas. Other effects are less demand for housing, sports facilities, public transport, or shops.

Fewer students, fewer schools

The decline also affects education. The number of primary education students has dropped sharply in recent years. This leads to fewer students or fewer classes at school. Schools are responsible for taking action. Hundreds of primary schools have closed in recent years.

Growth in students

Some areas experience growth in student numbers. Especially urban areas have a high inflow of students. Some schools even have waiting lists because of the many student enrollments.

Related Subjects

Dossier

Student forecast & founding standard

Parents and an existing school governing body can start a new school if there is no school nearby that fits parents' wishes.

Read more
Dossier

Starting new school

Everyone can start a school. There are some rules for starting a new school.

Read more
Dossier

Merger or closure of a school

A school can face a merger or closure. With a closure, one school stops existing.

Read more
Dossier

The Dutch school system

Ouders & Onderwijs is er voor alle ouders met kinderen in de schoolgaande leeftijd. Ouders kunnen bij ons terecht voor advies en antwoorden op hun vragen.

Read more

Contact Us

We are happy to help you with all your questions.