KAAP - parents language learning initiative in Antwerp

KAAP is an initiative of De Scholbrug (the 'Schoolbridge'), an NGO based in Antwerp (Belgium-Flanders) which aims to create links between schools, parents and pupils, with a special focus on socially vulnerable families. The KAAP project focuses on providing migrant parents with Dutch language lessons at their children's school.

De Scholbrug started its activities in the 1990s, under the auspices of the City Mayor. Its main objective is to create links between schools, parents and pupils, with a special focus on socially vulnerable families. The Schoolbridge offers a wide range of actions for both primary and secondary schools, and currently employs 20 educational development workers.

The Schoolbridge model is built around a number of core principles: equality (teachers and parents as equal partners), trust (belief in parents and pupils capacities), connect, empowerment and customisation.

The KAAP project aims at improving communication between parents and schools. It provides Dutch lessons to parents of non-Flemish origin and helps parents connect to the school, e.g. by supporting them in reading/understanding communications from the school, and in engaging in school activities and their children’s education.