Pupils design new climbing routes in collaboration with Klimbos Bergen op Zoom

19 February 2025

Klimbos Bergen op Zoom and pupils from RSG 't Rijks join forces for a unique collaboration. Technasium pupils get the chance to invent and design new climbing route elements. An initiative that not only stimulates creativity, but also builds a bridge between education and the world of work.

Frank Hagenaars, coordinator of the Technasium at RSG 't Rijks, explains:
"The idea came about when a colleague contacted Klimbos Bergen op Zoom last year. We like working with companies from the region and the Klimbos is a well-known and appealing organisation for our pupils. Within the subject Research & Design (O&O), we often work on large projects, in which pupils go through the whole process: from preparation and research to design, implementation and presentation. A collaboration like this makes lessons more relevant ánd ensures tangible results."

Focus on creativity and safety

During the collaboration, the focus is on designing new elements for the climbing routes. This requires a lot of creativity, as the Klimbos already has an extensive range of challenging obstacles. Nevertheless, the pupils manage to come up with fresh ideas, partly thanks to the guidance of the Klimbos staff.

Ashley Godeschalk, site manager of Klimbos Bergen op Zoom, explains:
"The aim of this collaboration is to introduce students to the working field. We have a total of three contact moments in which the assignment is explained, progress is discussed and designs are pitched. Safety is a key focus here: climbers are always secured to the fuse cable, so every element must be safe and functional. The most promising designs are collected and later evaluated. If a design is really feasible and fits well into a route, there is a chance that it will actually be built. That's great to see!"

Cooperation with future prospects

The cooperation is seen as very positive by both parties. Hagenaars emphasises the value for students:
"By working with a real company, students learn what is involved in designing a product that can actually be used. Moreover, the cooperation with the Klimbos is very pleasant: appointments are kept and they think along with us. We hope to continue this project for many years to come."

Godeschalk also sees the added value:
"The pupils' enthusiasm is contagious, and their ideas are often surprisingly creative. It's great to see how their work can eventually find a place in the Klimbos."

A tangible memory

For visitors to Klimbos Bergen op Zoom, the collaboration offers a nice extra. See a sign at a climbing route saying: 'Made possible by Technasium students from 't Rijks'', then you know that this element is the result of this unique collaboration between schoolchildren and the Klimbos.