AboutAnneke Oosterink Expertise Customs and daily life in general. More specifically, schools and universities. I know a lot about the way people live here.
Experience Schools and Universities, daily life and customs
Expert: Anneke Oosterink Date: 2/3/2008 Subject: moving to holland
Question a few questions on moving to the north of holland drachten maybe
looking at moving summer 2009 uk residents children will be 2x 6yr + 7 years,would you recommend english or dutch speaking schools,kids have basic knowledge of dutch language?
i am a hgv(large truck)driver would i find work hard to come by?
is there any legal 'stuff' we need to do before our move?
how does the healthcare system work for us and children?
Answer Hello Brian,
I am sorry it took me so long to answer your question, but unfortunately I had computer problems.
If your children have a basic knowledge of Dutch, and you will be staying in Drachten for a longer period of time, it is advisable to enroll them in a Dutch speaking school. As far as I know there is not a large group of expats and meeting Dutch friends is easier at school. I suppose you will be speaking English at home, so your children will get the best of two worlds, so to speak.
I do not know whether truck drivers are very looked for in Drachten or in the surrounding area, but you could contact a job agency, or just call, mail, or write application letters to transportation companies. In the online phonebook I found several transportation companies. The website in in Dutch unfortunately, but I hope it is of use.
As far as the healthcare system is concerned, as far as I know you will have to have a social security number, and some sort of document (either a visa or a residence permit). But for specifics you might want to contact the embassy, they will probably know what sort of things you need to do, to get insurance.
The healthcare system in general is in my experience quite good. If you would like to know more about the healthcare or anything else, just contact me.
