OOP is an important part of education

Increase self-awareness and pride. With that goal in mind, Summa organized a customized training day for the educational support staff at Sondervick College in Veldhoven. "We are now more aware that we are an important part of the educational process," says Rudy Timmer, head of the ICT department.

Sondervick's support services employ twenty staff members. "Sometimes people think we're isolated," says Rudy. "But we're an important part of the educational process and therefore make a valuable contribution to students' development. The customized study day made us more aware of that. And also that we can be proud of what we do. We did this through fun work methods." For example, everyone wrote down what they were good at and what they could be proud of, per colleague. "I have those notes hanging in the office," says Léonie de Koning, the first staff member in Facilities Services. "It's good to go back and look at them every now and then."

Fixed versus growth mindset

The study day was divided into three themes: human mindsets, professional conduct, and the role and professionalism of support staff within a valuable process. Léonie found it interesting to learn the differences between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. "Since the customized study day, I've been looking at people that way. It helps me understand and approach someone better. I want to learn more about it and also gain more tools to help someone with a fixed mindset adopt a growth mindset. Perhaps something for a future study day."

Good for bonding

According to Rudy, the customized study day also fostered mutual bonding. "It's nice to meet and get to know each other in a different setting." Léonie agrees. "We laughed a lot. We especially talked about the backward-facing bike. If you steer that bike to the left, it goes to the right, and vice versa. It shows that it's not easy to do things differently than we're used to."

Great trainers

The two staff members look back on a fun, interesting, and educational study day. "Both the content and the format were appealing. Moreover, the trainers were clear and their presentations engaging." They believe the objectives were achieved. "The day definitely led to increased self-awareness and pride. As support staff, we are important to the development of students at our school."

Are you also looking for a inspiring tailor-made study day that meets your training needs? We're happy to take on the challenge.