FIX (Brussels work experience & renovation for schools)

FIX improves learning environments in schools and other public buildings through renovation works and related services. In parallel, it runs a practice-based training trajectory: participants learn on real worksites, receive coaching from instructors, and build both technical skills and job readiness. The model delivers dual value—better public infrastructure and improved employability for people who struggle to enter the labour market.

Problem addressed

Problem: Limited access to decent work and recognised skills profiles for jobseekers facing labour-market barriers, combined with the need for better maintained and more inclusive learning environments in schools and other public buildings.
Target groups: Jobseekers who face barriers to employment (e.g., low qualifications, long-term unemployment, limited work experience); school communities and users of public buildings benefiting from improved infrastructure.

Innovative solution

What we do: Deliver renovation and maintenance works for schools/public buildings and run a workplace-learning trajectory where participants train on real assignments with coaching and guidance.

Why it is innovative: It combines infrastructure improvement with a structured work-experience and training pathway. Participants build a credible skills profile through real assignments, not simulated training, supported by structured guidance.

Who is involved: Lead organisation: FIX (Brussels). Partners typically include Dutch-speaking schools/public building owners, training and employment actors, and public funders (to be specified). Key contact: Eva De Smedt (Director); HR: Hilde Van Wassenhove.

How it works (methodology): Schools/public building owners commission renovation/maintenance tasks. FIX plans worksites as learning environments. Jobseekers join a practice-based trajectory: onboarding, safety and basic skills, coached participation on worksites, regular feedback and job-readiness coaching. Participants graduate with demonstrated competences and support towards employment.

Key results and benefits

Results 2025:

97 people accompanied
24 nationalities
451 training courses
Employment rate: 66%, of wich 72% in the construction sector*

Renovations 2025:

91 schools renovated
36 cultural-, youth- or sports organisations renovated

*as measured in January 2026. This figure may increase thanks to coaching from the job coach (up to 1 year after the program).

Potential for mainstreaming

Scale by partnering with more school networks/municipalities and construction/employment actors. Conditions: steady pipeline of renovation assignments, qualified instructors/coaches, safety and compliance capacity, agreements with schools/public owners, and funding to cover training/coaching costs. Transferable to other cities where there is both infrastructure need and unemployed jobseekers.