Why is English proficiency so high in the Netherlands?

There are many fantastic destinations for TEFL teachers in Europe, but the Netherlands stands out uniquely. It is one of the busiest centres for international trade and a culturally diverse, geographically distinct nation with much to see and do and plenty to explore.

With dynamic cities like Amsterdam , The Hague, and Rotterdam to explore, there’s ample incentive for TEFL teachers to live and work in the Netherlands. Linguistically, though, the Netherlands distinguishes itself from its near European neighbours. How? Well, it’s a country of very proficient English speakers.

Yes, TEFL teachers can find opportunities in the Netherlands, but there is strong competition. Aspiring teachers are up against Dutch educators who have learned English locally to a very high standard.

What explains the Netherlands’ exceptional English skills?

Dutch education

What do we mean when discussing the Netherlands and its grasp of English? EF’s English Proficiency Index has the Netherlands ranked first out of 116 countries. It has a significantly higher proficiency score than second-place, practically bilingual Norway . 

English instruction in Dutch schools begins around age 10 , a practice common in many countries. Plenty of countries emphasise the importance of English from an early age, but fall far behind the Netherlands in terms of proficiency. Perhaps, a factor is the nation’s high standards of language education. As a whole, the Netherlands is the 3rd-most educated country in the world.

What can we draw from this? With a well-funded education system that teaches English from an early age, you can cultivate high levels of language proficiency. However, there’s much more to it than that.

Linguistic similarities

Plenty of countries have a strong state education sector and enthusiasm for English, but not nearly the same level of proficiency. Part of the answer lies in the Dutch language itself.

There are several similarities between English and Dutch . English and Dutch are both West Germanic languages, and there are close likenesses in terms of vocabulary (tomato/tomaat, place/plaats), the structure of compound words (rainfall/regenval), and grammar. 

While the languages aren’t identical, there is far more crossover between languages like English and Dutch than, for example, English and Spanish. This helps explain why Dutch learners acquire English more easily.

Economic factors

The Netherlands has global influence due to a history of international exploration, colonisation, and global trade. Today, the Dutch are a significant player in European and worldwide business and the ninth biggest exporters of goods globally.

English, meanwhile, is the language of business. With growing American influence and the waning use of French and German in trade during the latter part of the 20th Century, the need for English proficiency in the international marketplace has only risen. 

In short, it’s become increasingly crucial for the Netherlands, a significant economic presence, to have high levels of English proficiency. It’s good for business.

Cultural factors

Switch on the TV in the Netherlands, and you’ll likely hear English-speaking voices.

Across the country, English-speaking content on television or in films is rarely dubbed. Instead, Dutch subtitles are provided. Much content produced in English-speaking countries is shown without a Dutch-language option. .

This means that even in their leisure time, Dutch people either learn English or use their existing English language skills to enjoy media. There are even English-language channels on Dutch television .

The result for TEFL teachers

What does this mean for TEFL teachers?

With English being so popular and Dutch people being able to speak it so well, there isn’t the same demand for TEFL teachers in the Netherlands as in other countries. Local teachers can provide excellent English instruction, so hiring from different countries is not as necessary as in popular European destinations like Spain or Italy . 

That doesn’t mean, however, that TEFL jobs in the Netherlands are impossible to find. You can find opportunities to teach English in the Netherlands , mainly through language and international schools. However, universities and state schools sometimes hire talent from elsewhere.

If you dream of teaching English in Amsterdam , language and international schools are where most opportunities can be found. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree, a high-quality TEFL certificate and teaching experience to work in a language school. In contrast, international schools usually require at least a master’s degree (preferably in English or Education).

The average English teaching salary in the Netherlands is about €3,560 - €3,614 (£3,032 - £3,078 / $3,924 - $3,984) , but the cost of living , especially in major cities, can be expensive.

A unique challenge and opportunity for TEFL teachers

So, what have we learned?

Above all, the Netherlands offers a fascinating blend of language, culture, and opportunity for TEFL professionals. If you’re curious about how languages spread and develop, especially Germanic languages, English proficiency in the Netherlands is an interesting case study. 

This level of English ability means finding full-time TEFL jobs in the Netherlands can be more challenging. It is possible, though. You'll find work if you’re highly qualified, disciplined, and have teaching experience.

Interested in teaching English in Europe ? Read our comprehensive guide to learn more about different TEFL destinations, requirements, salaries, and more!