Proud of our EuroSkills students Noud and Maud

What a remarkable journey our students Noud Meesen and Maud van Dijk have made! Last week, they represented Summa on the largest European stage for craftsmanship: EuroSkills 2025.

For three days, they demonstrated what it means to perform under pressure, persevere, and grow. Maud (Patisserie) recovered brilliantly after a difficult start and impressed with her cakes, chocolate showpiece, and the mystery challenge. "It's amazing how she held her own mentally. Once she can see the horizon again, everything will be fine," says Tjeerd Collette, one of the Summa supervisors in Denmark. Her own supervisor, Tommas van Rossum, witnessed it happen too: "I don't know what she achieved during her first break, but after a slow start, she was fully focused again and really achieved something!"

Noud (CAD draftsman) worked calmly and thoughtfully for three days, always with a positive attitude. His dedication and sharp analyses earned him a Medal of Excellence at the medal ceremony on Saturday evening. This proves that he is one of the best young professionals in Europe in his category. "It's very special to see his development up close. He had everything much better under control than during Skills Heroes in Amsterdam," says Tjeerd.

A podium finish for the two Summa students wasn't in the cards this time, but the results are just as valuable: new skills, new friends, and an experience they'll carry with them throughout their careers.

Our thanks also go to the dedicated teachers who guided and coached Noud and Maud throughout their Skills journey. A big shout-out to Linda Baeten, Helga van der Sommen, Marina Soubbotina, Tommas van Rossum, and Tjeerd Collette. Thanks to their passion, network, knowledge, trust, and support, their students were able to excel at this level.

For Maud, the adventure isn't over yet. She's been invited to showcase her craftsmanship on Budget Day. While Members of Parliament are being styled by vocational students on Tuesday morning—including Summa student Quinty Heyzer—Maud will be giving them a taste of her craftsmanship with homemade chocolates.