Strengthening Global Leadership Through Collaboration
The ICP Executive Meeting in the Netherlands was more than a strategic gathering—it was a powerful opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and explore innovative approaches to education.
Hosted by ICP President Leendert-Jan Veldhuyzen, the Executive engaged in thought-provoking discussions, school visits, and cultural experiences that reinforced the importance of global collaboration in education leadership.
At the heart of this experience was a shared commitment to preparing students for the future—connecting education with industry, fostering real-world learning, and ensuring that school leadership remains adaptive and forward-thinking.
A Closer Look at the Dutch Education System: Kaj Munk College
One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to Kaj Munk College, where students introduced the Executive to the Dutch education system’s seven-level structure. This system offers clear pathways to support different learning needs and career aspirations, and Kaj Munk College focuses on three levels: MAVO, HAVO, and VWO.
A standout programme at the school is Research & Design, which exemplifies how real-world challenges can be integrated into the curriculum. In this subject, Dutch companies present authentic business problems, and students apply design thinking strategies to develop solutions, build prototypes, and pitch their ideas to industry professionals.
This hands-on, applied learning approach ensures that students graduate with critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills—essential for success in today’s world.
The key takeaway? Learning is most effective when it is authentic, meaningful, and directly linked to the world beyond the classroom.
Teylingen College KTS: Preparing Students for the Future
The visit to Teylingen College KTS provided further insight into how education can seamlessly connect with industry. Here, students are immersed in practical, career-focused learning experiences that prepare them for the workplace.
- Construction students design and build projects that are donated to the community.
- Hospitality students manage a fully operational bakery and restaurant, serving real customers.
- Technology students develop solutions for real programming and design challenges.
Walking through the state-of-the-art facilities, guided by students, it was evident that this approach bridges the gap between education and the working world. Students at Teylingen College KTS are not just learning concepts—they are developing skills, gaining confidence, and leaving school ready to contribute to their industries.
This visit reaffirmed the importance of vocational and applied education in equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Beyond Meetings: The Power of Connection in Leadership
While the Executive engaged in important strategic discussions, the most valuable moments often happened outside the boardroom.
Leadership is not just about planning—it is about relationships.
Whether exploring The Hague and Delft in their free time or guided by Leendert-Jan Veldhuyzen on a walking tour of his home town of Leiden, these relaxed moments provided an opportunity to deepen connections, exchange perspectives, and strengthen the bonds that make ICP a truly international network. These informal interactions are as crucial as formal meetings in building trust, collaboration, and shared vision.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for ICP?
This visit reinforced what makes ICP unique—a global network of education leaders who are committed to learning from each other, embracing innovation, and driving meaningful change.
As we move forward, the insights and experiences gained in The Netherlands will inform future discussions, inspire new initiatives, and strengthen ICP’s impact on education leadership worldwide.
We look forward to continuing these conversations with you—our ICP members—who are at the forefront of shaping education for the next generation. Thank you for being part of this journey.
A special thanks to Leendert-Jan and to The Netherlands for their warm hospitality. Although the trip has come to an end, the conversations, ideas, and relationships formed will continue to shape our collective work in education leadership.
