Working as a Flex Employee at Kindertuin
Wilma Benjamins
8 years of experience at Kindertuin in various roles – working as a Flex Employee since 2018.
What do you enjoy about working as a Flex Employee?
Personally, I find the flex pool very enjoyable. Every day is different and brings a new challenge. You work with children of all ages, which makes it very diverse. When you haven’t been at a location for a while, you notice the (physical) growth and development of the children. Often, the older children recognize you and greet you with great enthusiasm.
You build more or less a bond with all your colleagues. Moreover, they welcome you with open arms because you help fill gaps in the schedule. It gives me a good feeling to be able to support them.
What is the difference between the Flex Pool and a permanent location?
Working in the flex pool personally gives me more peace of mind. I feel freer because you are spared the “additional tasks” that come with running a permanent group. I especially enjoy being able to focus on the special moments of the day. In the group, I can fully concentrate on the children and my colleagues, a wonderful feeling!
How does a Flex Pool work?
As a flex employee, you can be assigned to any location within Kindertuin. I personally have a fixed-hour contract. I always receive my schedule 4 weeks in advance and can view it digitally. However, my shift as a flex worker can sometimes change at the last minute due to changes at locations, such as sick colleagues or children who are absent. These changes are always discussed with me in advance.
How do you ensure that you can easily integrate at each location?
When you are new, you receive general information about Kindertuin in advance, so you can familiarize yourself. Additionally, every location has lists with details about the children: eating and sleeping schedules, any allergies or medication use. And, of course, your colleagues will inform you about everything you need to know.
Personally, I find it important to make yourself visible and show your commitment. This way, you quickly find your place at all locations and are enthusiastically welcomed by colleagues as a “saving angel” and extra helping hands for the day.
What kind of people would you recommend the Flex Pool to?
Are you, like me, someone who enjoys a lot of variety and change throughout the day… Or do you want to gain a lot of experience because you are looking for a permanent position… Do you enjoy working with children of all ages and developmental stages… Do you see each day as a challenge to make it enjoyable and rewarding… Do you like supporting colleagues when their day doesn’t go as planned due to schedule changes… Can you view sudden changes in your schedule as a challenge and adapt to them easily… Do you, like me, want to finish the day feeling “done” with your work and end it on a positive note…?
Then the Flex Pool is truly for you, and I hope to meet you soon at Kindertuin as a colleague!
