17–21 March 2025 | Strabrecht College, Geldrop, the Netherlands
“Are we still connected?” That was the central question during the Europroject conference All Connected, held from 17 to 21 March 2025 at Strabrecht College in Geldrop, the Netherlands, as part of the school’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Eighteen partner schools from across the network participated, each represented by delegations of school leaders, teachers, and students. An Erasmus+-accredited guest school from Turkey also joined the programme.
Throughout the week, students and teachers – both together and individually – explored how connected they are to one another, to their schools, and to society. Through a variety of workshops, brainstorming sessions, and lectures, participants reflected on what drives them and how they relate to others.
The opening ceremony began with short videos introducing the participating schools. Emilie Struble, deputy director of Strabrecht College, welcomed all guests, followed by speeches from Mayor Jos van Bree and Pascal Carpentier, Chair of the Steering Committee, both highlighting the importance of (international) connection. The event also honoured the Europroject’s history, with special recognition for its founders and other key contributors from the past, who were warmly applauded.
The student programme combined familiar elements – introductions, school tours, classroom visits, and time with host families – with a range of activities centred around the theme of connection. These included urban workshops, group projects on social cohesion within schools and communities, and an interactive session on the role of dopamine. During the closing ceremony, students presented their findings and creative outcomes.
The teacher programme included introductions, networking sessions, and a thematic visit to the Eindhoven region, featuring excursions to ASML, the Philips Museum, Evoluon, and PSV. In addition, Jos Ahlers delivered an inspiring lecture on Generation Z, the right to fail, and decision-making stress.
To strengthen the bond between teachers and students, several joint activities were organised. The group visited the town hall of Geldrop-Mierlo, where child mayor Stan van Steenbergen and alderman Frans Stravers spoke about civic participation, social initiatives, and inclusivity. Music also played a unifying role during a lively djembé session and an international music bingo, where each country’s culture and sounds took centre stage.
The week concluded with a vibrant farewell party, where teachers and students danced and celebrated together – a fitting finale to an inspiring conference.
The event was organised by the Euroteam: Yvette Beernink, Rianne van Bommel, Jos van Gemert, Vincent de Bakker, Ksenija Popac, Claudia Wagemakers, and Stijn Simons. Thanks to the dedication of many colleagues, parents, and host families, the conference was a great success. Special thanks go to all host families who opened their homes and hearts, giving the visiting students an unforgettable experience.
One participant summed it up beautifully:“This was the best trip ever. I miss you already. Maybe I will come back to study or live in the Netherlands.”
We look back with pride on a week full of inspiration and connection. The next Europroject Conference will take place in October 2025 in Armentières, France. Let’s stay connected!
