In July 2025, the Flemish Government introduced ‘Every Child a Language Hero’ (Leder kind taalheld), a strategy to improve Dutch language proficiency across Flanders. This initiative responds to continuing concerns about declining language outcomes, as shown in national and international assessments, and focuses mainly on early childhood and primary education, with additional targeted support for secondary schools.

The ambitious new strategy plan consists of ten coordinated measures that include early screening, remedial support, improved teaching materials, and expanded summer programmes. Strong emphasis is placed on teacher development, ensuring that educators in every subject area are equipped to enrich pupils’ Dutch language skills throughout the school day.

A distinctive feature of the programme is its long-term and evidence-informed design. Rather than introducing isolated projects, the government has created a coherent framework that will be implemented gradually from September 2026 until 2029. Measures taken include:

• Intensive language support classes for children who need additional help or instruction

• Additional Dutch lessons during the transition to secondary education

• Early childhood programmes that involve both toddlers and their parents.

Recent decisions also include significant funding and regulatory adjustments, as well as a major subsidy for the foundation Leerpunt, which will contribute to a strong scientific knowledge base for effective practice.

Teachers in all 3000 Flemish primary schools will receive an intensive training program via the Dutch Language Union (Taalunie) to become language experts, understand how language development works in the brain, and how remedial interventions become effective.

The goal of this initiative is not only to raise academic performance but also to promote equal opportunities by giving every child the linguistic foundation required for success in school and in society.

For more information: https://www.vlaanderen.be/onderwijsprofessionals/nieuwsberichten/ieder-kind-taalheld-een-pakket-maatregelen-voor-de-versterking-van-het-nederlands

Source: Eurydice Unit Belgium (Flemish Community)