Praktijkvakken

Praktijkvakken, literally “practical subjects,” are a category of school subjects in Dutch-speaking education that emphasize applying knowledge in concrete tasks and real-world contexts. They are designed to develop practical skills, problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and professional attitudes, and to connect learning to the needs of the labor market. In the Netherlands and Flanders, praktijkvakken appear mainly in secondary vocational education and training (MBO) and in practical tracks within VMBO, though the exact structure varies by school and program.

Teaching typically takes place in workshops, laboratories, kitchens, clinics, or fields, with a large share of time spent on hands-on activities, project work, and supervised practice. Courses are often organized around themes or career fields and may include work-based learning components such as internships or stages. Assessment commonly combines practical assignments, portfolios, performance tasks, and periodic examinations; some programs culminate in vocational qualifications.

Typical topics and track areas vary, but may include technology and design, construction and crafts, health and social care, agriculture and horticulture, hospitality and retail, and administration and services. The aim is to equip students with transferable skills—such as safety, quality control, teamwork, and communication—while also delivering specialized competencies relevant to specific trades.

Because the term and implementation differ by country and educational system, exact names and requirements of Praktijkvakken may vary. They remain a core element of making education more applicable to the workplace and to lifelong learning.