In January 2026, a Belgian delegation visited MBO Amersfoort in the Netherlands to explore how local innovations in modular education, teacher professionalization, and industry partnerships are addressing the pan-European challenges VET is facing.
A group of 9 HR managers, working in multiple Adult Learning Centers (Centrum voor Volwasseneducatie, CVO), wanted to learn more about the Dutch VET system and the way MBO Amersfoort faces the challenges the current era brings.
Adapting to Change through Flexibility
The socio-economic landscape of Europe requires a workforce that is not only skilled but also highly adaptable. During the visit MBO Amersfoort showcased its commitment to “Contemporary Education” (Eigentijds onderwijs), which centers on modular and flexible learning pathways. This approach is a direct response to the disruptive era we live in: by moving away from rigid structures, the institution allows students to navigate an increasingly complex labor market.
A key element of this transformation is the changing role of the educator. At MBO Amersfoort, teachers are evolving into learning coaches, focusing on guiding and coaching students through personalized journeys rather than traditional top-down instruction. This shift is crucial for fostering the transversal skills needed to maintain European competitiveness in a digital world. The Belgian colleagues were informed in which way the HR department of MBO Amersfoort supports this change within the organization.
Synergy Between Education and the Workplace
To tackle challenges related to employability and sectoral transformation, the Dutch VET system emphasizes strong ties with the industry. The Belgian delegation was introduced to the “Onderwijs in bedrijf” (Education in Business) model, led by director Bert van Wede. This model integrates learning directly into the professional practice, ensuring that vocational training remains synchronized with the actual needs of the economy. MBO Amersfoort fosters multiple learning companies (e.g. Leerhotel het Klooster, a garage, a beauty salon and hairdresser) in which students can work with real customers in a protected and supervised way.
Strategic investment in Human resources
MBO Amersfoort’s status as a recognized “Opleidingsschool” (Training School)—a partnership with Hogeschool Windesheim and Hogeschool Utrecht—highlights a strategic investment in human capital. By connecting theory and practice and stimulating innovation in teacher training, the institution addresses the demographic challenge of teacher shortages while improving the quality of VET delivery.
By focusing on career paths and flow policies for teachers, MBO Amersfoort addresses the dilemma of staff retention and professional growth in a competitive market. This comprehensive approach to HR&D demonstrates how VET systems can remain resilient by prioritizing the continuous development of their own professionals.
A Collaborative Future
The visit, hosted at the unique Leerhotel het Klooster, served as a platform for mutual exchange between the Belgian and Dutch systems. It was very insightful for both sides, as similarities as well as differences delivered lots of input for lively discussions.