The British School in the Netherlands: Developing resilient, self-reflective learners
What do young people need to thrive in a world that’s changing faster than ever? At The British School in the Netherlands (BSN), the answer goes beyond exam results. Their focus is on helping every student become a confident, curious learner, someone who can think deeply, adapt to new situations, and stay motivated when challenges arise.
That’s where High Performance Learning (HPL) comes in. It’s not a new curriculum or an add-on. It’s a shift in how learning is understood, taught and supported across the whole school.
What is High Performance Learning?
Founded by Professor Deborah Eyre, High Performance Learning is based on a simple yet scientifically supported idea: all students are capable of high achievement when they are given the right tools and environment.
It recognises that intelligence and ability are malleable. This is based on the concept of neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new connections through learning and experience. With deliberate practice and the right support, students can continue to develop their cognitive abilities.
HPL focuses on two key areas:
- How to think: Teaching students a set of Advanced Cognitive Performance Characteristics (ACPs) - skills that help them become effective, independent learners.
- How to behave: Developing Values, Attitudes and Attributes (VAAs) that support traits like resilience, curiosity and empathy, which are essential for learning and life.
"I’ve seen the positive impact of High Performance Learning across our school. At its heart, HPL is built on the belief that "Everyone Can". Our students are engaged in their learning, enjoying school, and embracing challenges with confidence. HPL supports a reflective mindset, encouraging greater self-belief and a deeper understanding of growth mindset.
We are shaping how our students think and act as learners, empowering them to take more ownership of their own learning. HPL provides a strong framework and a shared language that supports and guides this journey." - Fiona Aartsen, Assistant Headteacher at the BSN
By incorporating these skills into everyday teaching, High Performance Learning enables students to become more aware of how they learn and how they can apply their knowledge in various situations.
Bringing HPL to life at the BSN
The BSN introduced High Performance Learning in 2023 and is now part of a global network of World Class Schools. But the school’s commitment to holistic student development began long before. In 2018, the BSN launched its Character Profile, defining the personal qualities it aims to develop, many of which align naturally with HPL.
This strong foundation made the transition smooth. Today, HPL is integrated into all aspects of school life, including classroom lessons, group projects, leadership opportunities and home learning. It’s common to hear students using language like “perseverance” in maths or “connection finding” in science, which are signs of a growing understanding of how they think and learn.
“I’ve been learning Dutch for two years, so I used those skills to help me learn German. I noticed similar words and made connections.” - Asahi, a Year 6 student at the BSN
This kind of reflection is one of HPL’s strengths. It helps students take ownership of their learning as an active process they can shape.
Supporting students beyond the classroom
At the BSN, High Performance Learning continues beyond lessons. Parents have been part of the journey from the start, with opportunities to learn about HPL and use the same learning language at home.
With nearly 90 nationalities represented across the school community, this shared approach helps international families adjust to a new education system, creating consistency between school and home.
Coffee mornings, book clubs, and student-led conferences help bridge the gap and ensure children feel supported on all fronts.
Teachers also meet regularly to plan and share ideas. From the Foundation Stage to Sixth Form, staff work to build independence and resilience by helping students approach learning with greater awareness and intent.
Why it matters
In a world where information is easy to access but harder to evaluate, students need more than knowledge. They need to know how to ask questions, be able to adapt, work collaboratively with others, and persevere when things are difficult.
HPL helps students develop these lifelong skills. It supports them to:
- Understand themselves as learners
- Approach challenges with confidence
- Build habits of curiosity, collaboration and critical thinking
These skills matter far beyond the classroom.
Looking ahead
The British School in the Netherlands is continuing to embed High Performance Learning in all areas of school life. It’s a long-term approach, and the impact is already visible. Students are increasingly reflective, resilient and ready to meet whatever comes next.
At the BSN, HPL is helping the school shape not only high achievers but also confident, compassionate, and curious global citizens, guided by empathy, openness and a readiness to lead. They’re not just preparing for exams; students are learning to adapt, contribute and thrive wherever their aspirations take them.