Dutch Conversation for Expats in the Netherlands
We’re dedicated to helping expats master practical Dutch through immersive conversation practice. Since 2019, we’ve been guiding professionals, families, and newcomers through the language journey with methods that actually work.
Why We Started Spreken.nl B.V.
A response to a real need in the expat community
Expats moving to the Netherlands face a unique challenge. You’re juggling work, settling into a new country, and trying to learn Dutch — all at once. Traditional language courses focus on grammar and textbooks. We decided to flip that approach entirely. Our founder, a former corporate trainer who’d worked with dozens of international relocations, realized that expats didn’t need more theory. They needed actual conversation practice with native speakers who understand their situation.
That insight shaped everything we do. We’ve built Spreken.nl B.V. around practical Dutch — the kind you’ll use at work, in shops, with neighbors, and in social situations. Not perfect Dutch. Real Dutch. The kind that builds confidence because it’s immediately useful.
Native Dutch Instructors
Experienced language coaches who’ve trained 800+ expats in conversational Dutch and cultural integration.
Conversation-First Method
We prioritize speaking from day one. You’ll practice real scenarios: workplace discussions, social interactions, practical situations you’ll encounter.
Small Group Sessions
Maximum 6 participants per session ensures everyone gets speaking time and personalized feedback from instructors.
Expat-Focused Curriculum
We teach the Dutch language expats actually need — workplace Dutch, cultural context, navigating bureaucracy, making friends.
What We’ve Learned From 800+ Expats
Over five years, we’ve worked with expats from 45 countries. Americans, Germans, French speakers, Brazilians — people from everywhere learning Dutch. We’ve noticed patterns. What works. What doesn’t. What builds confidence fast.
The biggest breakthrough? When expats realize they don’t need perfect Dutch to communicate. They need courage. And practice. We’ve created an environment where both flourish. Many participants tell us they’re more comfortable speaking Dutch after three weeks with us than they were after months of app-based learning.
We’ve also learned that expats need more than language. They need cultural context. Why do Dutch people say what they say? How do they communicate? What’s considered polite or direct? These insights transform language practice from mechanical repetition into genuine connection with Dutch culture.
The Spreken.nl B.V. Method
Four principles that guide every conversation session
Speak From Day One
No silent observation. You’ll start speaking Dutch in your first session. We create a safe space where mistakes aren’t failures — they’re learning opportunities. Your instructor responds naturally, models corrections, and keeps conversation flowing.
Real Scenarios, Real Language
We don’t practice abstract dialogues. We work through situations you’ll actually encounter: ordering coffee, discussing work projects, making plans with new friends, navigating customer service. Language emerges from context that matters to you.
Personalized Feedback
Small groups mean your instructor notices your patterns. We’ll address pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary in real-time — but always with encouragement. You’ll know exactly what you’re improving and why it matters.
Cultural Context Integrated
Language doesn’t exist in a vacuum. We explain Dutch communication styles, cultural expectations, and the reasoning behind how native speakers communicate. This context accelerates learning and builds genuine cultural integration.
Expats Who’ve Found Their Voice
After working with hundreds of professionals learning Dutch, we’ve seen remarkable transformations. Expats who were hesitant to speak at work are now leading meetings. People who felt isolated are making genuine friendships. That’s the real measure of success.
“I was terrified to speak Dutch in meetings. After six weeks with Spreken.nl B.V., I’m not just surviving conversations — I’m actually enjoying them. My colleagues noticed the difference immediately.”
— Sarah, Marketing Director, relocated from UK
Real Feedback From Expats
What participants say about their language journey with us
“Wasn’t expecting to feel so comfortable speaking Dutch this quickly. The instructor makes you feel safe to try, and the other students were all in the same boat. Honestly, it’s changed my whole experience in the Netherlands.”
“My family moved here last year and I’ve been stuck. The practical approach works — we practice things I actually use. Now I’m not dreading the supermarket or parent conversations at school.”
“The cultural context was game-changing. It’s not just about speaking Dutch — it’s about understanding how Dutch people think and communicate. That changed everything for my integration here.”
Important Information
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only. Language learning outcomes depend on many factors including individual dedication, prior language experience, practice frequency, and real-world application. We provide structured conversation practice and guidance, but individual results vary based on personal effort and learning styles. Our content and methods represent our approach to teaching Dutch conversation skills to expats in the Netherlands. Success stories shared represent individual experiences and may not reflect typical results. We encourage all participants to maintain consistent practice and seek additional learning resources to complement their studies with Spreken.nl B.V.