American School of the Hague

The Hague, Netherlands

About the American School of the Hague (ASH): ASH is the only American international school in the Netherlands. It’s also the only school to offer both AP and IB. Based in Wassenaar, a peaceful village on the outskirts of Leiden and The Hague, many students ride their bikes to school along bike paths.

As a private, not-for-profit school the focuses on enhancing the student learning experience, with an intentional approach to well-being. From pre-kindergarten to high school, students are encouraged to take control of their own learning.

School Mission: We build a better world as we become better human beings, hear and value every voice, keep every promise, and celebrate every achievement. 

School Vision: We are determined to create a school where everyone is confident and able to take control of their own learning, and the world is our classroom. 

Visit the school’s website for further details and information.

ITF Review
(Based on Independent Research)

Would you recommend this school to other teaching families?

Yes – although the cost of living in the Netherlands may be challenging for some families, the school itself is very family friendly and the location and community feedback is likely to be a great fit for many families.

Overall compensation package rating

Teaching families receive a strong overall package that includes tuition waivers for dependents, moving allowances, and flights. There is also the added benefit of the Dutch 30% ruling, which allows a significant portion of salary (up to 30%) to be paid tax-free for qualifying expats, easing the higher cost of living in the Netherlands.

Tuition benefits

Children of full time expat teachers are exempt from tuition, enrolment, capital and bus fees – while under the 30% ruling. After five years of service (when the 30% ruling expires) your tuition benefit becomes a taxable benefit.

Housing

There is no housing benefit offered as part of the teaching package.

Flights

The school will organise and pay for the initial flight to the Netherlands. You’re also entitled to a home leave allowance every two years for yourself and dependents.

Healthcare

Teachers are required to pay into a mandatory basic plan with additional coverage (that includes dental and worldwide coverage) paid by the school. You will need to pay tax on the benefit.

Adjustment for kids

There are approximately 1,000 students at this school from over 70 nationalities (including Canada, China, France, Italy, Netherlands, South Korea, Spain, UK and USA). Expat kids are likely to find fitting in pretty easy.
Instruction is in English and other languages taught include French, German and Spanish. There is a large range of extra curricular options for students, including sports, leadership, performing arts, service, music and more.

Average class sizes

The average size of classes across year levels is 15 students.

Teaching experience required

Teachers come from Canada, France, Netherlands, Spain, the UK and USA. You will need to hold a teaching qualification or certification to work at this school.

Curriculum

American (AP), International Baccalaureate (DP)

Retirement/pension benefits

Yes – approximately 8% of salary goes to a Netherlands pension fund.

School history & stability

The school has a solid history – opening in 1953.

American School of the Hague – Additional Benefits

  • Visa assistance
  • Ongoing PD
  • Moving allowance

What Teachers are Saying About American School of the Hague

The discipline in middle and high school is seriously lacking, and the behaviour is terrible. Budgets have also been cut back and many teachers are leaving.

EX INTERNATIONAL TEACHER, ASH

Great students and school culture, but the weather in winter can be challenging!

CURRENT TEACHER, ASH

I really rate this school. Students have a great attitude, teachers care about student learning, and the parents and community are great. The location isn’t ideal if you’re living in The Hague but it’s great if you choose to live locally and want a quiet lifestyle for your family.

TEACHER AT ASH
  • Peaceful dutch countryside with horses grazing by a stream surrounded by lush greenery
  • Aerial view of The Hague, Netherlands under a clear blue sky
  • People enjoying a peaceful afternoon in ao park in Den Haag, Netherlands

Safety, Adaptability & Cost of Living

  • Safety: High – The Hague is a safe and family-friendly city, with low crime rates. Wassenaar, where the school is located, is a leafy suburb known for its spacious homes and international community. The area offers a quiet, village-like feel while being only a short drive or bike ride from the city centre.
  • Adaptability:Strong – With a long history as a hub for diplomats, NGOs, and international organisations, The Hague has a well-established expat community. Families will find it easy to settle, with plenty of English spoken and a wide range of activities for children.
  • Cost of Living: High – Housing in desirable areas like Wassenaar can be expensive and hard to find. Groceries, dining out, and childcare are also higher in cost compared to other parts of Europe, though public services and infrastructure are excellent.

General Overview for Teaching Families

The American School of The Hague (ASH) is a long-established international school in the Netherlands, located in the suburb of Wassenaar. With over 1,000 students from over 70 nationalities, it is the country’s only American school and offers an international environment for teaching families. Instruction is in English, and ASH combines American, IB, and AP programs, giving students multiple pathways to graduation.

ASH has a reputation for inclusivity and student well-being. It runs a unique full-inclusion support programme, with services for students’ emotional, social, and learning needs, as well as a dedicated Special Education programme that is well-regarded internationally. Co-curricular options include competitive sports, music, performing arts, service clubs, leadership opportunities, and eco-initiatives.

Community is a central part of life at ASH. The school’s “Safe Harbour” program helps new families settle into life in the Netherlands, and the strong parent community in Wassenaar provides a welcoming base. Active families will also appreciate the school’s bike-friendly location.

For teachers, ASH offers a competitive salary and benefits package within Europe, with perks such as tuition waivers for dependents, moving allowances, and eligibility for the Dutch 30% tax ruling. Staff describe the school as collaborative, international, and supportive, though the high expectations and cost of living in Wassenaar and The Hague can be a challenge.

Do you currently teach at this school? We’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch or fill out our teacher survey to provide more information about what it’s like for families teaching at this school.

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