Your child’s adventure in secondary school is about to begin, but don’t be caught off guard by extra costs! Schoolbooks are free, but there are other expenses. Schools might ask for a deposit for books, which you’ll get back if the books are returned in good condition. If the deposit is a challenge, there may be options for help.
You don’t need to pay for digital learning materials, but remember other items like an agenda, notebooks, folders, pens, a calculator, sports clothes, dictionaries, and an atlas. Don’t forget about extra transportation costs, like a good bike or a bus or train pass. Homework help might also be necessary, so compare prices to find the best option.
VOLUNTARY PARENT CONTRIBUTION
Schools often ask for a voluntary contribution for trips and other extra activities. Don’t worry, your child can still participate even if you don’t pay. Paying in installments is possible, and there are funds that can assist. Good to know: the child-related budget automatically increases when your child turns 12.
LAPTOPS AND TABLETS
Laptops and tablets are not included in free school materials, but schools cannot force parents to pay for them. Check with the school to see how this is arranged. Here’s to a great school year!
LEERGELD
Do you want your child to participate, but there’s no money at home? Leergeld can cover the costs of education, sports, culture, and well-being for children between 4 and 18 years old under certain conditions.
In the Netherlands, more than 200,000 children grow up in poverty. That’s 2 to 3 children per classroom. These children often cannot join activities that are normal for their peers due to financial reasons. They are often literally left on the sidelines.
Leergeld aims to help these children participate, offering them the opportunity to join in-school and out-of-school activities. This helps them develop, gain knowledge, build skills, and increase their self-esteem. Do you need financial help for your child? See what Leergeld can do for you at: leergeld.nl.
