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Bridge the Gap helps expat families understand the Dutch education system, choose the right school, and support their child’s emotional and academic transition with confidence.

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Your family made the leap. Now let's make sure your children land.

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You're relocating to the Netherlands and don't know where to start with schools. Your child is mid-curriculum and you're worried about what they're missing. You've arrived and realized the system is nothing like what you expected. You want one person who understands both sides: the Dutch education system, and the expat experience.

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You've come to the right place!

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bridge the gap and learn with me Lizze Bate founder image

Hi, I'm Lizzie!

I'm Lizzie Bate, a British expat, a mum, and a primary education specialist with 20 years of international teaching experience. I've navigated the Dutch system firsthand, and built a career helping other families do the same.

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Bridge the Gap graphic supporting element
Bridge the Gap graphic supporting element

Services

From choosing the right school before you land, to helping your child catch up once they're in the classroom, I'm here for every part of the transition.

Dutch Education Consulting

The Dutch education system is unique, and making the right choice for your child starts with understanding it. In a 30–45 minute video consultation, we'll walk through the system, explore your school options, and build a clear plan for moving forward.

Curriculum Support

Every school does things differently, and switching countries can leave children with gaps they didn't ask for. I'll work directly with your child to bridge those gaps, connecting with their teacher to understand exactly what's needed and helping your child get to grips with new methods, terminology and expectations.

Child-Centered Relocation Coaching

Moving countries affects the whole family, and the emotional side of it rarely gets enough attention, especially for children. Through coaching sessions using thoughtful questions, games and activities, I'll support you and your children through every stage of the transition: saying goodbye, arriving, settling in, and making it feel like home.

Not just for children:
English Lessons

Many international jobs in the Netherlands require English, and most international schools run entirely in English. If you and your family are moving to the Netherlands, you may need English skills even before learning Dutch!

Feeling overwhelmed when planning your move to the Netherlands with your family? Contact me to get the support you need.

After working with Bridge the Gap, you will:

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Know exactly which school is right for your child and why

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Know how to support your child emotionally through the transition into their new home

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Have any curriculum gaps identified and addressed before they become problems

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Have a child who walks into their new classroom with confidence

Above all, you'll feel like you have someone in your corner who genuinely knows both worlds and can offer professional guidance.
Bridge the Gap graphic supporting element
Bridge the Gap graphic supporting element
Bridge the Gap graphic supporting element

What my clients say:

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Ms. Lizzie was an essential part of my development and journey to the international school system. Her kind and patient character was immensely comforting when I was learning English and needed some reassurance. Overall she is not only an amazing teacher that I still remember 15 years later, she is also a beautiful human whose teaching I have carried with me in my further education and now career.

-Léa

Ms. Lizzie has truly been one of the most impactful influences on my life. Growing up in a variety of cities and countries, having someone like her teach me at such a formative age provided me with a moral compass, and imparted values onto me which served me dearly in my academic career. Moreover, her joy of life and positivity still bring a light outlook on challenges I face in adult life. I have no doubt that the person I am today would not be the same, were it not for Ms. Bate, and the growth I experienced while in her classroom.

-Pierre

Lizzie is incredibly kind, funny, and patient. She creates a warm and safe environment right away, which helped my daughter feel comfortable with her very quickly. The lessons are playful and well adapted to my daughter’s world, making learning not only effective but also genuinely enjoyable.

 

What I especially appreciate as a parent is how Lizzie keeps me involved in my daughter’s development. She communicates clearly about progress and really works together with us.

- Angela

Ms. Lizzie is a great teacher. She is funny and makes the children gain confidence while learning in an easy way. She really knows how to keep the attention in her lessons with games. But at the same time stays serious and accomplishing all the required goals.

-Javier

Gallery of Adventures

Curious about what Bridge the Gap and Learn with Me is all about? Explore the gallery to see a glimpse into the fun things I'm doing.

In the Media

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holland expat center south
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You've done the hard part already by making the decision to move abroad. 

Let's make sure you and your children are prepared for your new life. Contact me to get started.

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Bridge the Gap graphic supporting element
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