Drenthe launches Transition Class to keep MBO students on track for diplomas
Starting May 2026, MBO students in Drenthe who switch courses can join a Transition Class to avoid dropping out. The pilot, backed by €99,000 in provincial funding, helps students stay motivated and maintain their routine while transitioning to a new program, securing better job prospects.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Initiative | Transition Class pilot |
| Location | Drenthe, Netherlands |
| Start Date | May 2026 |
| Participants (expected) | ~80 MBO students |
| Funding | €99,000 (Province of Drenthe), €100,500 (DCTerra) |
| Total Costs | €199,500 |
| Focus Areas | Dutch, mathematics, coaching, career guidance |
| Goal | Reduce dropout rates, improve educational and job opportunities |
| Duration | Two-year pilot |
The province of Drenthe plays a key role in supporting educational initiatives through funding and policy frameworks like the Social Agenda. This pilot aligns with its broader goals of promoting equal opportunities and talent development in vocational education. DCTerra Assen, as an MBO institution, implements the program to directly address student needs.
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New Transition Class Prevents Dropout of MBO Students
MBO students in Drenthe who switch courses and have to wait for a new intake period can soon continue attending school. With the new Transition Class, they maintain their daily routine and reduce the risk of dropping out without a diploma. This is part of a two-year pilot that DCTerra Assen will launch in May 2026. The province of Drenthe is supporting the initiative with a €99,000 subsidy from the Social Agenda.
Deputy Yvonne Turenhout: “Those who drop out without a diploma have fewer opportunities later for a stable job and income. Taking time off between courses can make it difficult to stay motivated. The Transition Class helps young people in an interim period stay engaged with school and smoothly transition to a new MBO course.” The initiative aligns with the province’s Social Agenda, which focuses on equal educational opportunities and talent development.
During the pilot, approximately 80 young people are expected to participate in the Transition Class. Not all students will join at the same time: depending on their transition moment, some will attend for a few months, while others will participate for a longer period until they can start their new course.
Margreet Zoer, Regional Director of DCTerra MBO Assen: “In the Transition Class, students work on general subjects such as Dutch and mathematics. Where possible, they complete assessments and receive coaching and career guidance tailored to a smooth transition to their follow-up course. This keeps them developing and prepares them well for their new start. We are pleased to be able to offer young people this additional provision soon.”
The total costs amount to €199,500. In addition to the provincial contribution, DCTerra is also providing its own financial and personnel contributions.