The First Years (2014)
A Dutch youth soap series capturing the real highs and lows of starting secondary school, told through short, relatable episodes on NPO 3.
The First Years - Series Information
- Original Title: Brugklas
- First Air Year: 2014
- Last Air Year: 2025
- Created by: Raymond Grimbergen, Nicolien Kool et al.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Soap, Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 10 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 14
- Number of Episodes: 1172
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: Dutch
- Spoken Languages: Dutch
- Networks: NPO 3
- Production Companies: Tuvalu Media
- Production Countries: Netherlands
- Alternative Titles: The First Years (US), سال اولیها (IR)
The First Years - Plot
The First Years is a Dutch series for young people in which real-life situations are recreated. The series sheds light on subjects that pupils in the first year of secondary school may be confronted with.
Where to Watch The First Years
Looking for where to watch The First Years?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The First Years - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Raymond Grimbergen
- Nicolien Kool
- Eva Leysen
Main Cast
- Chloe Maessen
- Belle Zimmerman
- Sonia Eijken
- Birgit Kunstt
- May Hollerman
- Britt Scholte
- Niek Roozen
- Sevcan Koçer
- Daan Kruysifix
- Claire Veldkamp
The First Years - FAQs
What is The First Years about?
The First Years is a Dutch youth soap series that recreates real-life situations experienced by pupils entering secondary school for the first time. It tackles relatable topics such as friendships, bullying, identity, and social pressure, offering young viewers an authentic mirror of their own school experiences.
Where can you stream The First Years?
The First Years is available to stream on several platforms in the US, including The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Tubi TV with ads, as well as Amazon Video for purchase. Availability may vary by region. Check JustWatch for a full and up-to-date list of streaming options.
How many seasons does The First Years have?
The First Years has 14 seasons plus a specials collection, totalling over 1,170 episodes. Seasons range in length from 25 to 110 episodes each. The series has been airing continuously on NPO 3 since 2014 and is still in production as of 2025.
Is The First Years based on a true story?
The First Years is not based on a single true story, but it is grounded in real-life experiences. The series uses a mockumentary-style approach to recreate authentic situations that first-year secondary school students commonly encounter, drawing on genuine social and emotional challenges faced by young people.
Who are the main actors in The First Years?
The cast of The First Years includes Chloe Maessen as Fien, Belle Zimmerman as Emma, Sonia Eijken as Safa, Birgit Kunstt as Bo, May Hollerman as Selma, Britt Scholte as Anouk, Niek Roozen as Max, Sevcan Koçer as Ebru, Daan Kruysifix as Milan, and Claire Veldkamp as Jamie.
What network airs The First Years in the Netherlands?
The First Years airs on NPO 3, the Dutch public broadcaster's channel aimed at younger audiences. The series has been a consistent fixture on NPO 3 since its debut in 2014, making it one of the longest-running youth-oriented soap dramas in Dutch television history.
Is The First Years still ongoing or cancelled?
The First Years is still ongoing. As of 2025, the series holds a Returning Series status and remains in active production. Season 14 is currently underway with 50 episodes, continuing the show's long run on NPO 3 since its premiere in 2014.
What makes The First Years unique among youth shows?
The First Years stands out for its mockumentary format and its focus on the very first year of secondary school — a transitional moment rarely explored in such depth on television. With short 10-minute episodes and relatable storylines, it delivers accessible, emotionally honest content tailored specifically to young Dutch viewers.
More About The First Years
Explore further details about The First Years on these authoritative resources.