Giulia

"I have gained much more self-confidence."

Giulia moved from Brazil to the Netherlands six years ago and was taught in English half the time in elementary school. So it made sense for her to go for bilingual education in high school as well. She is now in the second year of the bilingual bridge class havo/vwo. "The atmosphere at Sondervick College is good," she says.

"When I first entered Sondervick College, I immediately felt a fine energy. That made it easy to choose this school. I wanted to pursue bilingual education because it would allow me to improve both my English and Dutch. The transition to high school was very easy for me. I didn't know anyone here yet, but I quickly made new friends. It also helps that Sondervick College feels small. Of course it is a big school with many buildings, but in the first year you always have classes in your 'own' building. As a result, you quickly feel at home."

Responsible

"My mentor also helped me settle in quickly. He often asked if everything was going well and if I was having trouble with anything. That was nice, because that way I knew: if there is something, I can go to him. We received a lot of help in the beginning, for example in learning to plan our homework. Everyone got a planning diary in which we put homework, tests and projects. You are responsible for planning your own work, but you can always ask teachers for help."

Self-confidence

"I find that I became more confident in high school. I met new people myself, I learned how to present in front of a group and I went abroad with the class. Last year to Brighton and this year we are going to London. That international is super fun as well as educational."