Education levels in The Netherlands

The teaching packages on Blauwgroenlespakket.nl are suitable for vmbo- and mbo- students. The vmbo falls under secondary education and mbo comprises intermediate vocational education. The content and texts of the teaching packages were adjusted to the (language) level of the student.

Secondary education (vmbo)

After primary school, students will attend secondary education, which has different levels: vmbo, havo and vwo. Vmbo is more practice-oriented, havo is a preparation to higher professional education and vwo is directed at university.

After obtaining the vmbo-diploma, the students usually have language proficiency level B1 (ERK) and are at EQF level 2.

Intermediate vocational education (mbo)

The mbo offers vocational trainings after vmbo or havo. There are four levels:

  • Level 1: Basic education
    For students without a vmbo-diploma, focussed on basic skills. After obtaining the diploma, the students usually have language proficiency level B1 (ERK) and are at EQF level 1.
  • Level 2: Basic vocational training
    Takes one to two years, for executive trades. After obtaining the diploma, the students usually have language proficiency level B1 (ERK) and are at EQF level  2.
  • Level 3: Vocational training
    Takes two to three years, for specialised trades. After obtaining the diploma, the students usually have language proficiency level B1 (ERK) and are at EQF level 3.
  • Level 4: Middle management course and Specialist training
    Takes three to four years, for supervisory positions and in-depth specialisations. After obtaining the diploma, the students usually have language proficiency level B2 (ERK) and are at EQF level 4.