Colourful Dutch colonial buildings along the waterfront in Kralendijk, Bonaire
Utilities

Education for the family

Bonaire’s schools follow the Dutch system, with Dutch and Papiamentu as the languages of instruction. Here’s how it works for relocating families.

Bonaire is a special municipality of the Netherlands, so its schools follow the Dutch education system (overseen by the Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland and the Dutch Inspectorate). The two languages of instruction are Dutch and Papiamentu; English is taught as a subject and widely spoken but is not the language of instruction in the public system. Contact schools directly and early — popular schools may have waitlists, and enrolment is centrally coordinated.

Structure & languages

Schooling mirrors the Netherlands: primary (basisonderwijs) from age 4, then secondary streams. Language is the key consideration for newcomers — some schools emphasise Dutch, others Papiamentu. For children arriving without Dutch, ask schools about language support.

Childcare, special education & beyond

Several private daycare and after-school (BSO) providers operate (e.g. SPKB, Kinderopvang Dopey, BOKS). Special education is offered at Basisschool De Pelikaan (primary) and within SGB. On-island higher education is very limited, so for HBO/university most students study in the European Netherlands — Bonairean students can apply for a Dutch government allowance to do so. Note: reports of a full English-language "international school" could not be verified against official lists — assume schooling is in Dutch/Papiamentu and confirm with the schools and RCN.

Primary schools (basisscholen)

Mainstream and special primary schools (contacts as listed by the island government). Enrolment is coordinated centrally.

IKC San Bernardo

Primary (RC)

IKC San Luis Bertran

Primary (RC)

IKC Kristu Bon Wardador

Primary (RC)

Skol Amplio Papa Cornes

Primary (RC)

Kolegio Strea Briante

Primary (public)

Kolegio Rayo di Solo

Primary (public)

Basisschool De Pelikaan

Primary (special)

Basisschool Aquamarin

Primary (private)

Secondary & vocational

Scholengemeenschap Bonaire (SGB)

Secondary

The island’s comprehensive secondary school — VMBO, HAVO, VWO (Liseo Boneriano), practical education, and MBO vocational (levels 1–4).

Sources & official links

For orientation only. Rules, rates and costs can change — always verify the current situation with the relevant authority or an advisor. · Last reviewed: July 2026.

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