Vmbo.

Four different vmbo learning paths

A learning path in preparatory secondary vocational education shows a certain level and type of program: from very practical to mainly theoretical. Students make a final choice for a learning path at the end of the second year. There are 4 learning paths:

• Vmbo-tl, the theoretical learning path: This path is best compared to the old mavo. With a diploma from the theoretical learning path, a student can go to an mbo level 3 or mbo level 4 course. From vmbo-tl, students can also move on to havo with the right subject package.
• Vmbo-gl, the mixed learning path: This path is similar to the theoretical path, but instead of one theoretical subject, there is a vocational subject for 4 hours per week. With a diploma from the mixed path, a student can go to an mbo level 3 or mbo level 4 course. Students with the right subject package can also move on to havo.
• Vmbo-kbl, the kader vocational learning path: This path has more practical subjects: 12 hours per week. With a diploma, a student can go to mbo level 3 and mbo level 4 courses. This path is mainly for students who want to gain knowledge in practice.
• Vmbo-bbl, the basic vocational learning path: This path mainly has practical subjects: 12 hours per week, and offers a learning-while-working program. This is an adapted way of learning with much space for internship or work. With a diploma, a student can go to an mbo level 2 course.

The first 2 years

In the lower years, all students follow the same subjects: Dutch, English, math, human and nature, human and society, art and culture, and physical education. A second foreign language is also compulsory, except in the basic vocational learning path. In Friesland, the subject Frisian language and culture is also taught.

The upper years: choose a profile

At the end of the second year, each student in the basic, kader, and mixed learning paths chooses a profile. Each profile consists of a common part, a profile part, and a free part. There are 10 profiles:

• Economy and enterprise;
• Hospitality, bakery and recreation;
• Care and welfare;
• Green;
• Building, living and interior;
• Producing, installing and energy;
• Mobility and transport;
• Media, design and ICT;
• Maritime and technology;
• Services and products.

Students in vmbo-tl choose one of 4 profiles. Read more about the profiles and the profile choice.

The upper years: vmbo-tl

Unlike the other vmbo learning paths, the theoretical path has no vocational subjects. Only general subjects are taught. Many schools include a practical activity in the program so students can prepare well for mbo.

Internship

There is no legal requirement for internships in preparatory secondary vocational education. Many schools include a mandatory internship to give students practical experience. That is allowed if it is clearly described and known beforehand. Most internships take place in the third or fourth year. How such an internship looks is up to the school.

Learning path support

For vmbo students who need temporary help, there is learning path support. These students get extra help. The regional partnership tailored education is responsible for this. Read more about learning path support.