Kill two birds with one stone: knowledge about education and the Peel region

'At Ter AA, we are at the centre of society. We offer a wide range of MBO courses that are needed in Helmond and the surrounding area, such as technology, ICT and care. We have a lot of contact with companies and institutions in Helmond and the Peel region, so we know what they need. It is natural for me - because of our involvement with the world outside our school - to look beyond our job description. An example? At primary schools where there are a lot of multilingual children, we are also working to show their parents around.

I like the fact that I was asked to join the executive committee of the Brainport for Each Other association. I think I can offer a good addition to the expertise of the other board members, because of my knowledge about education and the Helmond-De Peel region. Two birds with one stone, in other words. It is important to ensure a connection in the Brainport region between industry, educational institutions, municipalities and social organisations. Because we need each other. Not only when it comes to economic interests. There must also be a focus on the social environment in which we work and live.

There are all kinds of activities in Helmond that fit seamlessly with the objectives of Brainport for Each Other. A good example is the City Plan for Low Literacy, aimed at helping people who have difficulty reading and writing. In the meantime, we have gained a lot of knowledge about what can be done about this social problem. I am happy to share that knowledge and insight.