Education is the only industry that doesn’t put its clients first — instead, it blames them for a lack of motivation.

Jun 26, 2025

Education is the only industry that doesn’t put its clients first — instead, it blames them for a lack of motivation.

Think about it: when you enroll a child or student in school. They will hand over the schedule which your 10- or for example 14-year-old has to follow. They’re placed in a group strictly based on age, not based on individual needs, circumstances, skills, or knowledge. That’s a system-first approach, not a student-first approach.

Over the years, I’ve gained experience transforming education systems to put students at the centre. My work setting up Agora Schools in The Netherlands has equipped me to help schools worldwide redesign their models with a client-first mindset. 

The result? A diversity of schools filled with motivated students and engaged staff.

→ Excited students entering the school on a daily basis

→ Students asking if the school can stay open during the holidays: “We don’t need the teachers, we need the facilities to finish our projects.”

→ Practical orientated students dive deep into theoretical topics, and vice versa: Theoretical students presenting their learnings practically. Which, for both, deepens their level of understanding

→ Teachers working with the students, instead of standing their grounds (like police officers)

→ Lowest teachers absenteeism rate in the district

Are you interested in discovering ways to increase motivation for both teachers and students by:

✅Teaching for life rather than simply preparing for tests
✅ Shifting from rigid timetables to flexible workflows that support both group and individual needs
✅ Connecting students' learning with future career possibilities to ease later career choices
✅ Focusing on real-world applications to enhance personal motivation
✅ Empowering teachers to guide rather than dictate

 

The Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences was also wondering, and they've sent a film crew to The Netherlands. 

 

Get a sneak peek of the interview in the attached video. 

 

Or even better: comment “More” below, connect with me on LinkedIn, and I’d be thrilled to share the entire interview with you!