On 27 January, Synclusive and regional partners in Amersfoort came together for their third activation event, dedicated to strengthening career pathways in the childcare sector. The follow-up meeting focused on exploring how the role of groepsondersteuner (childcare team support worker) can help reduce workload pressures, support childcare teams, and create new opportunities for people interested in entering the profession.
Building on the outcomes of previous discussions, participants reviewed key findings from a recent research report highlighting the added value of groepsondersteuners. The discussion showed strong agreement that this role has the potential to make a positive impact, provided that tasks, responsibilities, and supervision structures are clearly defined. Participants also emphasized the importance of giving childcare teams sufficient time and resources to support and mentor new colleagues.
A key part of the event focused on developing a practical job profile for the groepsondersteuner role. Partners discussed how to make the profile more accessible and realistic for both employers and potential candidates. Recommendations included involving relevant quality and health stakeholders, building on existing profiles from the care and wellbeing sector, and placing greater attention on essential workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, and reliability.
The group also explored the structure of a local pre-entry pathway for future candidates, including possible training options, certificates, language and basic skills support, and workplace coaching. Participants discussed flexible routes that could support candidates for whom traditional education pathways may not be suitable. Challenges related to language requirements in after-school care were also highlighted as an important topic to address at national level.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to continue collaboration. Next steps include engaging education providers in focused discussions supported by concrete examples from childcare organizations. Synclusive will provide partners with a clear timeline and expected involvement, while the group will continue exploring opportunities to strengthen cooperation through a regional childcare network and future working sessions.
Participants also discussed the potential to further develop activation events into broader community-driven initiatives, creating stronger connections between municipalities, childcare organizations, education providers, and local stakeholders.
