EN
NedLes was founded in 2009 in the home of language teacher Annelies Braams. With many years of experience in NT2 education (Dutch as a second language), she developed a clear vision: class time should be used for what cannot be done at home. That means: speaking, listening, asking questions and giving answers. The focus is on interaction – and that makes all the difference. This approach remains central to the way we teach today.
As NedLes grew in popularity, so did the school itself. More students joined, Annelies hired additional teachers, and in 2017 we moved to our current location in Amsterdam-Oost. It is a bright and friendly place, designed to make everyone feel at home, with a living-room feel and a lovely terrace where students and teachers can sit, chat and study in the sunshine. We do our best to bring that same warm and welcoming atmosphere into our online courses as well.
In the years that followed, NedLes became a well-known name. We developed into a school offering lessons at every level, with a permanent team of teachers and administrative staff from all over the world, often former students themselves. That diversity helps create an open and supportive environment where people quickly feel comfortable.
NedLes is located in a vibrant and lively part of Amsterdam-Oost, with cafés, coffee bars and the Dappermarkt just around the corner. The school is easy to reach by public transport, bike or on foot, and it is the perfect place to grab lunch after class, do some shopping at the market, or have a drink together. For those living outside Amsterdam, or even abroad, or for anyone who prefers learning from home, we also offer online courses that are just as personal and effective as the ones at our school.
Since 2019, we have been working with the Delft Method, a structured language-learning method that suits our teaching style perfectly. You study at home using a clear format, and come to class to speak Dutch. Not only with your teacher, but also with fellow students. Speaking is usually what learners want most from a new language and at the same time, what they find most challenging. And you do not really learn to speak from a book, but by doing it. That is why we make plenty of space for it in every lesson.
After sixteen years, Annelies passed the torch in 2025. NedLes is now run by Welmoed Nijhout and Renske Berns, who both share and carry forward her philosophy. They each began their journey at NedLes as teachers, and still enjoy teaching regularly. Because they love it, and because they believe in staying closely connected to their students. Few things give them more energy than the conversations and stories shared in class.
NedLes is a dedicated language school with a clear structure and a personal approach. We believe in clarity, independence, and lots of room to practise. You do not have to learn a language on your own, and with us, you will not.
Curious to find out more? Check out our courses or get in touch – we are happy to help you find the right fit.
