Steep learning curve at juice factory De Sapfabriek

Food Valley is actively involved in the Sapfabriek, a juice factory in Ede where students get on-the-job training in how to make and sell health drinks. Education and business are rolled into one. While ‘employed’ at the factory, vocational and applied science students learn a trade and work toward their diplomas. The motto is ‘learn by doing, the other path to knowledge’.

Guidance and responsibility
The teachers come from mixed backgrounds in education and the food industry. They teach on the work floor and supervise the 'employees' in the production process. But they also impart knowledge on marketing, purchasing and maintenance. The applied science students take a leading role. They supervise the vocational students in their tasks, acquiring professional skills they’ll need later on. These students leave with an added value on the job market: the ability to work with groups, to implement projects and to bear real responsibility.

A unique product
Open since 14 November 2007, the Sapfabriek has now developed its own product: 'Boost your body', an energy drink full of fruit and vitamins. The product is in production and is sold to schools in the Ede region. The factory also produces a juice with a custom-made label. This product is made on commission for promotional use.

Initiators
Sapfabriek Ede was initiated by the Werken Leren foundation and ROC A12. They secured partnerships with Campina, Friesland Foods and Heinz, as well as many smaller companies. Food Valley is helping to further improve this concept by sitting on the board of the learning factory.

More information on the juice factory? Visit www.sapfabriek.nl!