Why not gain experience right on your doorstep? The Netherlands which is widely known for its flat landscape, canals, tulip fields, windmills and cycling routes, is also the 2nd largest exporter of agricultural products (after the USA) in the world. A staggering 1.5 million dairy cows produce 10 billion litres of milk which is lucky as on average the Dutch eat 14.3kg of cheese per person per year as well as exporting a further 500 million kilos of cheese per year! The Netherlands is a pioneer in horticulture (especially greenhouse technology) and vegetable production. Did you know The Netherlands exports ¼ of the world’s tomatoes?
Equipeople has access to many unique, specialised positions within the agricultural and horticultural industry in The Netherlands thanks to our partner organisation, Stichting Uitwisseling (SUSP).
Programme Details
SUSP has 70 years of experience in organising practical training placements in agricultural or horticultural companies in The Netherlands. The training will be on the job and in the field because “learning by doing” is the best way to improve your skills. Therefore, you should not be afraid to work hard and get dirty hands!
The programmes are open to:
- Applicants between the ages of 16 and 26
- Students and graduates (preferably graduated within 2 years of application) from an educational institution that is linked to your chosen type of placement
SUSP offer 2 programme options:
- Short Programmes are from 3 to 12 weeks. The minimum age for this programme is 16 years old.
- Regular Progammes are from 13 to 52 weeks. The minimum age for this programme is 18 years old.
Arrival throughout the year is possible.
Type of Placements
Placements are available in the following sectors; dairy, arable, field vegetables, mixed farm, cheese making farms, flower and potted plant nurseries, fruit and tree nurseries and vegetables under glass.
Talk to our Outbound Programme Coordinator for more detailed information about the placements on offer and an application form.
Participants should
- Be mature, flexible, open-minded, committed and willing to make adjustments.
- Be able to develop a stable relationship with a host family and fellow workers and become part of a working team.
- Be polite, conscientious, courteous and avoid cultural political and economic value comparisons that might lead to conflict with hosts.
- Expect to work long hours at certain peak times in the season. Farming in The Netherlands can be labour intensive.
- Be willing to try new experiences and participate in activities.
Costs Involved
- SUSP Short Programme fee €635.00
- SUSP Regular Programme fee €535.00
- Equipeople’s fees are €369.00 including VAT (which includes a non-refundable deposit of €123.00 payable on application).
What’s Included?
- Placement
- Introductory Meeting and Follow-Up
- Dictionary and Trainee Handbook
- SUSP assistance and general support throughout your placement
- A certificate on completion of your placement
What’s Not Included?
- Comprehensive Health Insurance(compulsory under Dutch law)
- Flights
- 4-day Midpoint Meeting during the summer months