“More than changing diapers and peeling apples”: city visits schools to promote jobs in childcare (Antwerp)

Changing diapers, peeling apples and sitting next to the sandbox: with the promotional pool, the city of Antwerp hopes to make it clear that working in childcare is much more than that. “It’s about creating a safe and ‘rich’ environment where children can grow. They ensure an equal and good start for all children, regardless of background,” says Eva Engelen from KdG University of Applied Sciences, who gives the workshop in the sixth year of secondary school.

We visited the avAnt-school campus of Jacob Jordaens in the sixth secondary school of socio-technical sciences (STW). The students were presented with statements and had to say whether they agreed or not.

“I did an internship in a retirement home. An educational experience, but I don’t think I want to continue with this. The workshop on childcare was interesting, it convinced me to look into it as an option. I probably would have left it aside for this. Moreover, I found the statements pleasant because I notice that I have learned something new,” says Bram Vinkers (18) from Antwerp.

Kishjah Kunaratnam (20) from Deurne was also enthusiastic: “I did an internship with people with disabilities, where I was allowed to organize activities such as crafts, gymnastics and making masks. It was educational and I now have a different view of them. At first you have a stereotypical image of the people, but they are more than that. They have feelings, care about you and even missed me when I left. The workshop on childcare taught me a lot. I might want to do it as a student job.”

“I don’t know yet what exactly I want to do later, but I do want to do something social. That is why it is good that this workshop is being given. I now have a better understanding of the sector. It is certainly an underestimated sector,” says Alixe Smets (18) from Niel.

The city hopes to improve the inflow into childcare with the project. Jinnih Beels (Vooruit), Alderman for Education and Youth: “We are firmly convinced that by inspiring and informing young people at an early age about the versatility and richness of careers in childcare and leisure activities, we not only broaden horizons but also make a fundamental contribution to society. This initiative is an investment in our future.”

“Working in childcare is meaningful: you sow love, care and attention, and watch them blossom and grow into healthy and happy children in our city. Moreover, working with little ones is often dynamic and full of surprises, which keeps it fun and interesting.”

Nabilla Ait Daoud

Alderman for Childcare

“Working in childcare is meaningful: you sow love, care and attention, and watch them blossom and grow into healthy and happy children in our city. Moreover, working with little ones is often dynamic and full of surprises, which keeps it fun and engaging. With the ‘promo pool’ we want to encourage Antwerp young people to pursue a career in childcare,” says Nabilla Ait Daoud (N-VA), alderman for Childcare.

The project runs until June, twenty workshops will take place, ten in the second year of secondary school and ten in the sixth year of secondary school. Afterwards, the city will evaluate the project and determine how to proceed with it.