News Release

Every year, pupils from Praktijkonderwijs (PrO) Almere participate in work placements at Yanmar. In a safe and supportive environment, these young learners have their first experience of working at a 'real' company. Since 2015, Yanmar has been a learning workplace for PrO Almere, benefiting over 800 pupils so far.

PrO Almere is a school for practical education, teaching 550 students with learning difficulties aged between 12 and 19. In their third year, when pupils are 14/15 years old, they go on external work placements at local businesses or organizations. This first placement outside of school is a significant step in their personal and professional growth. It allows them to gain valuable work experience and develop essential life skills such as arriving on time, adopting a professional attitude, and following instructions from supervisors.

A running start

The work experience year starts with a company introduction for all pupils. Together with their mentor, they travel by bike or public transport to Yanmar, providing an early lesson in getting to work independently. During a company tour, pupils familiarize themselves with the workplace, which for many is their first exposure to a professional environment. Throughout the year, rotating groups of pupils come to Yanmar to work.

A dedicated Repack Department

Yanmar has set up a dedicated Repack Department specifically for PrO Almere. Each day, six to eight pupils work here under the guidance of two school coaches. Cooperating with Yanmar’s regular staff, they learn to follow the company’s standards and procedures. The work is hands-on and straightforward: repacking bulk or large shipments of diesel engine parts into Yanmar packaging in the correct quantities. Tasks range from repacking screws and bolts to water pumps and the assembly of various parts in service kits, giving pupils firsthand experience in a professional production process.

Celebrating success

At the end of the school year, pupils are rewarded for their dedication with an official certificate presentation. A real celebration, attended by parents, mentors, and staff, recognizes their achievements. The appreciation and personal attention, including a speech by Samir Laoukili, President of Yanmar, create a memorable conclusion to their practical work training.

Strong partnership

PrO Almere values its partnership with Yanmar. Not only does it provide pupils with work experience but also with a safe space to grow. Some can even qualify for a summer job or – later on – a full-time job at Yanmar. Yolanda Maas, one of the school coaches, shows that Yanmar cares about more than just work:

“As a sponsor Almere City FC, Yanmar arranges occasional trips to football matches of the Eredivisie club and provides lunches, complete with a sandwich toaster. It’s a wonderful gesture that strengthens their connection with the pupils. I know of no other schools with such a rewarding collaboration.

Contribution to growth

For Yanmar, the partnership is a way to give back to the community, particularly in Almere.

“It’s rewarding to see how pupils grow during their practical training." says Richard van Looij, Warehouse Assistant Repack and work experience coordinator at Yanmar. “We help and support them and prepare them for real work. It’s special to help young people gain work experience and shape their future.”