The number of freelance teachers in Amsterdam's primary schools has dropped from over 200 to 81 in one year. This change is part of a broader initiative to enhance educational quality and reduce costs, according to the Amsterdam school organisation BBO.

The number of freelance teachers in primary schools in and around Amsterdam has decreased significantly over the past year. According to the Amsterdam school organisation Breed Bestuurlijk Overleg (BBO), the number of freelance teachers has fallen from more than 200 to just 81.

BBO estimates that around half of the former freelancers have now secured permanent positions, while others have left the profession. This data encompasses all public, special, and private primary schools in Amsterdam, Diemen, Weesp, and Duivendrecht, which collectively offer 4,600 full-time teaching and support staff positions. Approximately 5 to 10 per cent of these roles were previously filled by external hires.

In the current academic year, the BBO decided to prioritise hiring permanent teachers for Amsterdam's primary schools. They believe this will improve educational quality and lead to financial savings. BBO previously stated, "Every euro saved on external hiring can be invested in the development of our own staff."

The initiative to reduce reliance on freelancers has also been motivated by a slight decline in student numbers and the stricter enforcement of the DBA law, aimed at preventing freelancers from operating as false self-employed individuals. BBO noted that an important step has been taken towards creating "more permanent staff, stable teams, and sustainable education in the city."

A spokesperson remarked, "There is really a visible shift. Freelancers who previously did not want to take a permanent position have now expressed interest in discussing full-time contracts." The organisation has received numerous positive reactions from both parents and teachers, and there is interest from other municipalities in adopting this approach.

BBO plans to engage with the PO-raad, the national sector association for primary education, to promote the Amsterdam initiative more broadly.