Language and qualifications,
sorted.
From A1 to B1 in 6 months. VCA, welding certificate and forklift refresher. All during working hours, with our FlexHero Academy. Because without language skills and qualifications, you’ll get stuck.
Two things that can hold back your career in the Netherlands if they’re not in order: language and certification. We take care of both through our FlexHero Academy — during working hours, with exams via accredited partners.
Learning Dutch — 3 levels.
| Level | What you can do | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Basics: introducing yourself, telling the time, understanding simple instructions | 8 weeks |
| A2 | Shop floor Dutch: instructions, warnings, basic conversations | 8 weeks |
| B1 | Working independently: informed conversations, written reports | 8 weeks |
Method: Dutch for Workers — focused on industrial language, not academic grammar. Online (Duolingo + own platform) + one half-day of classroom teaching per week.
VCA — basic safety.
The standard safety certificate for industrial work in the Netherlands. We arrange the exam within 1–2 weeks of the intake; costs covered by us. Valid for 10 years. For managers: VOL-VCA (8 half-days).
Professional certificates — renewal or acquisition.
- Welding certification NEN-EN-ISO 9606-1 (3G/4G for MIG/MAG, TIG for stainless steel) — on-site exam, 1 day
- Forklift certificate — 2 days’ training + exam
- Reach truck / EPT — an extra 1 day for those who hold a forklift certificate
- VAPRO B/C for process operators — 6-month programme with an external partner
- First Aid — 1 day, updated annually
Recertification — we keep track of when.
Certificates expire. But that won’t come as a surprise to you: we send a reminder 60 days before expiry, schedule the recertification and ensure your paperwork is always up to date.
Frequently asked questions.
How long will it take before I can speak Dutch well enough for work?
With serious commitment: 6 months from scratch to a working A2 level. Many craftsmen reach B1 within the first year. Some remain at A1 if their work requires little language — both are fine.
Is the course really free?
Yes. Course fees, materials and exams — all covered by FlexHero. No repayment obligation, even if you leave.
Can I take the exam in my native language?
For VCA: yes, in Polish, Romanian, Bulgarian, Hungarian, English. For welding certification: the practical exam is language-neutral; the theory can be taken in EN/DE.
What if I fail an exam?
No problem — we’ll arrange a resit. The second attempt is also free. From the third attempt onwards, we’ll share the costs.
Can my certificates be recognised in my home country?
Dutch certificates (VCA, NEN-EN-ISO 9606-1) are recognised throughout the EU. Other countries sometimes require additional documents — ask your advisor.
Strong Dutch or a new certificate?
We arrange both from the intake stage. Free of charge, during working hours.
