The Netherlands was ranked number one in the world in 2007 in a study which assessed general levels of children's well-being, and this is reflected in its excellent schools system. Parents may be required to meet some additional costs, but the education in publicly funded schools is free. Children can enter the Dutch education system at any time of the year, but placement of your child can be problematic due to the long waiting lists, particularly for primary schools. It is advantageous already to have an older brother or sister at the school when you’re trying to enrol your child, and also to live as closely to the school as possible. Equal government financing is provided for every publicly funded school in the Netherlands, regardless of whether they are secular or religious. Often children will walk or bike to school in the Netherlands. Some Dutch schools offer English and international streams, but a range of private international schools are also available, which may be of interest to expatriate families.