K.L.E.U.R!

K.L.E.U.R! strengthens childcare in Flanders and the Netherlands through innovative HR strategies, strong leadership, and new training opportunities. The project builds sustainable careers and helps secure high-quality childcare for every child.

In short

K.L.E.U.R! explores how the childcare sector in Flanders and the Netherlands can become stronger and more sustainable. The project focuses on attracting, training, and retaining staff in a sector facing severe workforce shortages and increasing demand for childcare places.

Together with organisations, training providers, and policymakers, we develop:

innovative training pathways;
strong mentorship and workplace support;
new career opportunities within childcare;
HR strategies that support sustainable employment;
initiatives that lower barriers for new target groups.

Need and relevance

High-quality childcare is essential for children’s development, family wellbeing, and a resilient society. However, both Flanders and the Netherlands face a structural shortage of childcare places. Staff shortages are one of the sector’s greatest challenges.

The research responds to the need for an attractive and future-oriented working environment in childcare. By focusing on leadership, support, and professional growth, K.L.E.U.R! aims to increase inflow into the sector while reducing staff outflow. The project also explores how cross-border collaboration can create additional opportunities for training and employment.

From approach to impact

Within K.L.E.U.R!, partners in Flanders and the Netherlands collaborate in learning networks where organisations, training providers, and policymakers exchange knowledge and experiences. By comparing and testing different approaches, we develop solutions that are applicable in both regions.

The project also collaborates with the Cross-Border Barriers Helpdesk to:

improve access to diploma recognition;
simplify cross-border employment;
strengthen cross-border training opportunities.

Through K.L.E.U.R!, we contribute to a future-proof childcare sector in which employees feel supported, remain sustainably employed, and help guarantee high-quality childcare for children.