New students start in "the Brugklas"

Seventeen newcomers began a pilot program on Monday, September 6, to try out the new integration program. Under the name “de Brugklas,” they will spend the next three months working on their language skills, going on field trips, and participating in various activities.

Through this pilot program, the municipalities of Leidschendam-Voorburg, Voorschoten, and Wassenaar are testing the new rules of the Integration Act, which will take effect on January 1, 2022. The new Integration Act requires municipalities to pay special attention to the personal talents and wishes of newcomers.

(from left to right) Aldermen Paul de Bruijn (Voorschoten), Inge Zweerts de Jong (Wassenaar), and Floor Kist (Leidschendam-Voorburg) next to the roadmap for integration in the three municipalities.
(from left to right) Aldermen Paul de Bruijn (Voorschoten), Inge Zweerts de Jong (Wassenaar), and Floor Kist (Leidschendam-Voorburg) next to the roadmap for integration in the three municipalities.

Aldermen Floor Kist (Leidschendam-Voorburg), Paul de Bruijn (Voorschoten), and Inge Zweerts de Jong (Wassenaar): “Every person is different. For a smooth integration process, it’s important to know what someone is capable of and what they want. With the Brugklas program, we offer newcomers a pathway that aligns with their personal ambitions and potential.”

A customized program for every newcomer

In the Brugklas program, there is time for newcomers to get to know each other and become familiar with the municipality. The municipal counselor works with each newcomer to develop a plan for a customized program. In addition to language classes and field trips to important locations, such as the library and the family doctor’s office, newcomers participate in activities such as financial literacy training and a workshop on healthy eating. The municipalities work closely with community organizations to make this possible.

“Through our collaboration with our community partners, we are able to offer useful and educational activities. We can count on their enthusiasm and willingness to contribute ideas and take action. Only by working together can we make the new approach to integration a success,” said the aldermen.

Starting January 1, municipalities will take charge of integration programs

The new Integration Act will take effect on January 1, 2022. The goal is for newcomers to learn the language as quickly as possible and to be able to participate in our communities, both in the labor market and in social circles. Whereas municipalities previously had little to no influence over the integration process, they will now take the lead.