The VOORwerk project offered information, training and individual guidance to resident permit holders residing in COA reception centres.
The training focused on the recognition and further development of soft skills relevant on the job, information on cultural differences and on how to apply for and keep a job in the Netherlands.
The project was a cooperation between the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA), the Foundation for Refugee Students UAF and IOM. Specifically for this project we developed a teaching method which was used by the COA trainers. The training consisted of three phases. The participants first joined a group session aimed at how to recognize and further develop their soft skills. In the second phase they received individual guidance with their integration in the Dutch labour market. The final part of the training consisted of voluntary based workplace learning aimed at gaining work experience.
In the VOORwerk project local networks of employers and organizations in the vicinity of the reception centres were set up to enable the participants to gain work experience. In addition, VOORwerk informed participants, municipalities and local organizations about work-related topics and about studying in the Netherlands.
The VOORwerk training consisted of:
- 3-5 group training sessions at COA reception centres throughout the Netherlands aimed at recognizing and developing soft skills.
- Individual guidance to further develop soft skills.
- Workplace learning on a voluntary basis to gain practical work experience.
- Establishing a local network of organizations and companies.
Who benefited from the VOORwerk project?
By providing information and tools to develop their soft skills, the VOORwerk project gave status holders a better starting position in the labout market. The skills of the participants were registered in a personal file, which was handed over to the municipality where the status holders were housed. This gave the municipality insight in the person's abilities and potential. The training also helped the status holders to recognize and present their skills, which enhances their chances of finding a job.
Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA), Foundation for Refugee Students UAF.
More information:
Migrant Training, Resettlement and Integration (MTRI) Unit – Integration
Tel: +31.7031.81.500
Email:
Website: https://www.coa.nl/mycoa/nl/voorwerk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VOORwerk.nl/
