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European Social Fund Plus
Project2025-01-20

Building futures through hands-on learning in the Netherlands

A trainee and a tutor working in the restaurant

For many young people, leaving school without a diploma can feel like a dead end. In Haarlem, Netherlands, and the surrounding areas, Spaarne Werkt is proving that it doesn’t have to be. By offering work-based learning programmes, the organisation is helping vulnerable young people rebuild their confidence, develop new skills, and find sustainable jobs – thanks to funding from the European Social Fund (ESF).

From dropout to diploma

Spaarne Werkt runs several work-based learning companies, including De Kloosterkeuken, a restaurant housed in a former 15th-century monastery in Haarlem. Here, young people who have struggled in traditional education environments gain hands-on experience in hospitality. From preparing dishes like roast veal and mandarin-caramel tarte tatin to serving customers, participants learn on the job while working towards vocational diplomas.

‘It doesn’t make much sense to have them sit in a classroom for hours on end. Their attention spans are often quite short,’ explains Esger Douwes Dekker, manager at Spaarne Werkt. ‘So, they are offered short theory sessions throughout the week in smaller classes. Each group also has a dedicated youth support worker.’

Participants split their time between practical work at the restaurant and lessons provided in partnership with ROC Nova College. This approach ensures that learning is engaging and directly relevant to the workplace.

Confidence and resilience

For many participants, the impact goes beyond skills and qualifications. Janno, 19, has been training at De Kloosterkeuken for three years. ‘I didn’t dare speak to anyone when I started. I couldn’t handle the busyness and sometimes had panic attacks,’ he recalls. ‘Now, I specialise in hospitality and feel much more confident.’

Mentors like Lonneke van Dijk guide participants through their development. ‘They might joke around in the afternoon, but as soon as the first guests arrive, they know what needs to be done,’ she says. ‘They understand their work matters, and that sense of purpose motivates them.’

More than a restaurant

The programme focuses on more than just employment – it supports personal growth and long-term development. Douwes Dekker shares the story of a boy with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) who initially struggled to stay focused. ‘A year later, he was confidently explaining the wine menu to me. It’s moments like that which remind us we’re changing lives,’ he says.

Crucially, the support doesn’t stop when the programme ends. A job coach helps graduates find paid employment that matches their skills and interests, whether in a restaurant, canteen, or café.

EU funding making a difference

Running work-based learning programmes is resource-intensive, and Spaarne Werkt relies on funding to keep its initiatives going. ‘We receive government subsidies and ESF funding,’ says Douwes Dekker. ‘Without that support, we couldn’t provide this kind of education for such a vulnerable group.’

The investment is paying off. Most participants leave with diplomas and jobs, gaining stability and independence. As Douwes Dekker highlights, ‘When a child leaves Nova College with an MBO diploma, it significantly increases their chances of a better future.’

The Spaarne Werkt initiative is part of a larger programme aimed at improving employment opportunities in South Kennemerland and IJmond. By combining training, work experience, and personal support, it offers a lifeline to young people who might otherwise be left behind.

Project details

Project name
Toeleiding naar en behoud van werk IV
Countries
Netherlands
Organisation
Haarlem municipality
Participants
835
Project start
2022
Project end
2024
Total budget
EUR 2 579 354
EU Budget contribution
EUR 705 800