Meet Rik Santegoets, digital skills teacher

In my class, you know exactly what to expect: what you see is what you get. No complicated language, no distance between teacher and student. I teach students from all kinds of cultures. That makes education fun, but also challenging. Some greet me with a box, while others are not allowed to shake hands because of their culture. I take that into account. Structure, respect, and clarity form the foundation of my lessons, but there's always room for good conversation, a joke, and personal attention.

Four days a week, I teach digital skills. Not ICT—so no programming or taking computers apart—but the practical skills you need to work with a computer. Many students think that if they're handy with their phone, they can handle a computer. But that's truly a separate subject. That's why I teach students how to format a document, how to use DigiD, and even how to use AI tools effectively. The great thing about digital skills? They change every day. While I'm explaining something, a new app might already be available. I guide students through it.

In my classes, I have students from all levels and backgrounds: from newcomers to the Netherlands to elite athletes and MBO level 1 students who are now moving on to the next level. Everyone learns at their own pace. Some students want to know everything right away, while others need a little push. That's okay. I understand that you can't always be 100% focused. Having a bad day? So be it. Next class, new round, new opportunities. Learning your way, with respect for who you are and where you come from, is what you can expect in my classes.

When I'm not teaching, I'm busy with other things that energize me: I play padel, enjoy traveling, and bake my own pizzas. It's important to me to continue developing myself and do what I love. That's also what I want to teach my students: you don't have to fit into the image society paints for you. Make choices that suit you and be proud of your path.