Symbiosis education.

If a student is registered at one school and follows part of the education at another school, this is called symbiosis education. The student visits two schools. This can be needed because the student takes certain subjects only available at one school or gets specific guidance or support.

Transition period

When a student transfers from special primary education to regular primary education, symbiosis education can be used as a transition. This way the student can get used to a regular class. Later, a final decision on transfer can be made.

Exams and practical subjects

In secondary special education, symbiosis education can help students who want to take specific practical subjects or certain exam subjects. Many secondary special education schools cannot offer exams at higher general secondary education or pre-university education level. Sometimes a student cannot take all subjects at every level. Symbiosis education with a regular school can be a solution. For secondary special education students taking state exams at adult education, symbiosis education between the special education school and adult education is possible. For practical subjects, cooperation with a vocational education institution can also happen.

Organization

When choosing symbiosis education, the student is already registered at one school. This school makes agreements with the symbiosis school about goals, program and funding. These are recorded in a symbiosis agreement. This agreement explains the duties and responsibilities of both schools.

Rules

Education funding in the Netherlands is based on how many students are registered at a school. Students can only be registered at one school. Symbiosis education follows some rules. These are on the education inspection website. The student can take no more than 60% of lessons at the other school. For the transition, the student can follow full-time lessons at the other school for a maximum of three months. There is no minimum number of hours. The schools also need a detailed symbiosis agreement.

Making agreements

Symbiosis is a good way to offer students tailored education. It creates opportunities for children but also requires something from students. Students deal with different schools and classes and it can be harder to organize. Good coordination between the schools, students and parents is needed. Make clear agreements and review regularly how things are going.