In May 2025, Loes de Jong started at Risbo as educational consultant. We have asked her to answer some personal questions, to get to know her and introduce her to Risbo's friends, colleagues, clients and followers.
What's your academic background?
"Through my educational and professional experiences, I have developed expertise in supporting teachers’ professional learning, particularly through initiatives such as professional learning communities. In recent years, I have broadened my focus to include organizational and leadership perspectives on fostering teacher development. Over the past decade, I have held positions as a PhD candidate, postdoctoral researcher, and assistant professor. My recent work as a teacher educator at the University of Amsterdam has been especially valuable, deepening my understanding of the daily realities teachers face and strengthening my commitment to educational improvement."
Why did you choose Risbo?
"After ten years in Academia, I had become curious about exploring a different way of working, particularly from a more supportive role. I chose to work with Risbo because their approach reflects what I believe in: as a teacher, you're never done learning. Staying open to new educational ideas and keeping an open-door policy to encourage and accommodate colleagues' learning is important. Not just for the quality of your teaching, but also for your own joy and growth in the profession. At the same time, it’s important not to get overwhelmed by the many options out there, but to focus on what truly makes a difference. On top of that, I really get along well with the people at Risbo from day one, and the much shorter commute (including a ferry!) is a great bonus."
What are you currently reading?
"I recently consulted Educational Psychology by Woolfolk, a comprehensive resource that covers a lot of essential knowledge for educational professionals."
Tell us, you work best with....?
"Music! To get energized ánd to be focused."
What's your favorite snack at the workplace?
"There are always snacks in my office lying on the windowsill, enjoying the beautifyl view on the Erasmus bridge and Willems bridge. My regular selection includes licorice, nuts, and chewing gum."
What is your biggest motivation in this work:
"What really drives me is the bigger goal we’re working towards: good education. The focus on daily teaching practice and the practical relevance of our projects, combined with extensive collaboration, give my motivation an extra boost."
What do you appreciate most working at Risbo?
"I appreciate that Risbo truly embodies the principle of 'practise what you preach'. Risbo consists of around 30 staff members with diverse interests, working styles, and areas of expertise, and yet I experience a strong sense of unity and collegiality. In training, consultancy, and research projects, collaboration is key. Responsibilities are shared, and there is a continuous emphasis on clear communication and working well together. At the same time, I value the balance between having autonomy in my work and being supported by Risbo’s well-organized structure. I also enjoy the daily informal moments with colleagues, where there is space to connect beyond work-related topics."
