The first edition of the Future market 2023

On November 16, the very first Futures Market for secondary education took place at the Excelsior Stadium in Rotterdam. The BOOR Foundation made a significant effort to ensure a large turnout. This paid off well. The market was packed with companies offering day activities and employment opportunities. Educational institutions were also present.

 

 

Students and parents turned out in large numbers for Excelsior.

This concerns young people with a physical disability, autism spectrum disorder, or a chronic condition. These young people obtained a regular VMBO/HAVO diploma at a VSO (Special Secondary Education). This means they are ready for their next step in society. Nearly 50 companies and organizations shared their expertise with the students. They are all specialized in this diverse target group. More than 700 students, parents, supervisors, and care and education professionals came to the stadium. Students and classes were allowed to ride in Excelsior's team bus! The Futures Market was opened from the center circle. “Special Secondary Education is full of unseen talent”

 

The Special Secondary Education Future Market is an initiative of the BOOR Foundation in collaboration with the Excelsior Foundation. Together, they ensured that this became an unforgettable future market. “Special Secondary Education is full of unseen talent. This means that these students are not seen by society. This market shines a light on ‘what am I capable of?’ That helps the students dare to dream about what they want to do later. We know that the transition to day activities, employment, or further education can and must be better. Collaboration is needed for that. Our goal is to build a bridge between all the parties present here,” says Marianne Paasen, Director of Innovation in Special Secondary Education at BOOR.

Frank van Vijg of the Excelsior Foundation had this to say about the future market: “Striving is loving. That is what Excelsior is all about. If you are in special education, you often have to try just a little bit harder. That is only possible if you have people around you who love you and want to do something for you. That is what you see today.”