Dutch language school in Amsterdam for expats
PELS (Pieter’s Experimental Language School) is an experimental Dutch language school in Amsterdam where you learn by speaking, not memorizing.
Now running a pilot program, join and help shape what this school will become.
Based on the latest language acquisition research
Creative methods: Learning with objects, grammar songs, games & more
Built together with students, pilot by pilot
Pilot 3 starts 10 August 2026!
Want to be part of it?
Where fun meets serious learning
Not a traditional language school
Most Dutch language schools spend a lot of time on textbooks and grammar rules. At PELS, I take a different approach.
My lessons are based on the latest research in language acquisition, combined with creativity, humor and practical learning.
I still teach grammar, just less and more selectively. Only when you actually need it. We experiment, we improve, and we build this school together with the students.
First pilot completed,
55 students taught. Pilot 2 in full swing.
What our students say
Ellie, A1 student (Pilot 1)
"I have enjoyed taking classes at PELS. It has been a really interactive and fun way to learn Dutch. The classroom is inviting and Pieter is very friendly. I definitely look forward to attending more lessons in the future!
Ana, A2 student (Pilot 1)
"Super nice course! Pieter is a very good teacher and the classes are really fun. Very interactive, you never get bored. Learning in such a fun way is really great - perfect balance between learning and having fun."
Alex, A2 student (Pilot 2)
"Very fun course. I like that the pace is not as rushed as in other courses, so you actually have time to digest the concepts."
What to expect?
An approach that helps students
understand and speak Dutch more naturally.
Learning through
using Dutch, not memorising rules
Focus on high-frequency vocabulary and everyday conversations
Learning grammar only when needed, intuitive learning where possible
Spaced repetition to learn vocabulary quicker.
Multisensory learning through music, movement & real tangible objects.
Serious learning without losing the fun: expect Dutch culture, memes, cultural homework assignments and a Dutch-themed classroom.
Who are these Dutch courses for?
These Dutch courses in Amsterdam are ideal for:
- Expats and international students living in Amsterdam
- People who want to learn Dutch in a
modern, motivating, research-based way
- Anyone who enjoys being part of a new, experimental and creative project
No heavy textbooks. No unnecessary grammar rules. Just
real communication, science, and fun.
Small pocket books with essential Dutch phrases
Songs to remember grammar naturally
Games and darts to practise numbers, vocabulary and grammar.
Labels on objects for natural vocabulary exposure
Humor, Dutch culture, and lots of speaking
1 free private lesson included for every student
Why running pilots?
Because I want to build this school the right way, and that takes time.
PELS is currently in its pilot year. That means I'm
experimenting, testing new ideas, gathering feedback
and improving with every lesson. Not everything will be perfect straight away, and that is exactly the point.
Together with my students, I'm building PELS towards what I hope it will become in the near future:
the most innovative Dutch language school in the Netherlands.
Student feedback shapes the teaching methods, the materials, the classroom experience and the future of this school. That is why being an early student at PELS is something special. You are not just learning Dutch. You're helping build something.
A cosy Dutch classroom in the heart of Amsterdam
Classes take place at
Oudeschans 21, in Amsterdam city centre.
The classroom is designed to feel
warm, motivating, and distinctly Dutch.
Objects are labeled in Dutch, the walls reflect Dutch culture, and every detail is there to help you learn naturally.
A place where you actually enjoy coming to learn and practise.
Pieter de Planque
Founder and Dutch Language Teacher
After 1.5 years of teaching Dutch to expats at one of Amsterdam's funniest language schools, I wanted to create something of my own.
I saw a gap in the market: a school where serious learning and genuine fun are not opposites, but go hand in hand. I believe no school will ever be perfect, because people learn in different ways. But by combining the latest research in language acquisition with creativity, humor and Dutch culture, I want to get as close as possible to what really works.
That is why I run pilots, gather feedback and keep improving - together with my students. Pels is the result of that vision. And this is just the beginning
Everything you need to know | Pilot 3
Start dates
Where
Oudeschans 21 Amsterdam Centrum
Pricing
Big group: €225 per person
Small group: €275 per person
Joining with a friend?
€25 discount
Interested in the Pilot program?
Pilot 3
August Start Dates
A1: 10 August 2026 (Mondays)
A2: 12 August 2026 (Wednesdays)
Pilot 4
October Start Dates
A1: 19 October 2026 (Mondays)
A2: 21 October 2026 (Wednesdays)
Big group
Big group pricing
€225
- 15 students
- 17:45 - 19:45
- 10 weeks
Small group
Small group pricing
€275
- 10 students
- 19:45 - 21:30
- 10 weeks
Sign up with a friend a get a
€25 discount!
Sign up and be part of something new.
Contact Us
Thank you for signing up!
Pieter will contact you to confirm your spot and discuss the details.
Please try again later.
After signing up, Pieter will contact you to confirm your spot and discuss the details.
