DNA, a Dutch community of Catholic primary and high schools in Alkmaar and Bergen, is committed to nurturing every child’s unique talents. They, five major educational boards – SaKS, Ronduit onderwijs, Sovon, PCC, and Jan Arentsz, have embarked on a collaborative venture. These institutions collectively believe in the need for a transformative approach to education. They envision “De Nieuwe Alkmaarse,” as this new educational system to create a smooth learning journey for cihldren from 4 to 18 years old, emphasizing that learning is in our DNA.

There’s a growing demand among children, teenagers, parents, teachers, educational professionals, and entrepreneurs for a different form of education. The challenge lies in determining where to start. What would this ‘new educational idea’ look like? Who could assist in its realization? What are the prerequisites? How can genuine collaboration be maintained? How can the initiative be planned and organized effectively? And importantly, how can they ensure they’re not reinventing the wheel?

Adding to this, SaKS had set a goal to launch a new educational concept titled DNA (De Nieuwe Alkmaarse) or “10/14 education” in 1.5 years. They faced the challenge of creating a project plan by summer 2022. This plan needed to align with the desires and needs of students, parents, school boards, and other stakeholders while ensuring it’s feasible for the 2024-2025 school year.