What is a Career Check-Up?

The Career Check-Up (“Loopbaan APK”) is a tailored coaching program for professionals in the Dutch cultural and creative sector. Inspired by a vehicle check-up (APK), it helps individuals take time to reflect on their careers before problems arise.

Who’s it for?

The program is available to all workers (employees and freelancers*) in:

• Orchestras (VvNO)
• Pop venues and festivals (VNPF)
• Dutch National Opera & Ballet (NO&B)

• Dance, theatre, and music ensembles affiliated with NAPK

This includes freelancers, substitute musicians, and permanent staff—depending on the sector.

What does it involve?

• Three individual sessions with a coach who knows the sector well
• Each session lasts about 1.5 hours
• The content is tailored to your needs: reflect on your goals, challenges, energy, and possible future paths

Key benefits

• Gain clarity on your role and direction
• Explore new ideas or ambitions in or outside the cultural sector
• Receive practical tools and perspectives to support your next steps

What does it cost?

The program is heavily subsidized there for participants pay only €95

Timeline & scale

• Available until the end of 2025
• Over 700 people have already participated
• Co-financed by the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment (SZW) through the MDIEU-program.

Organisers & partners

Developed by a coalition of cultural sector organisations including VNPF, VvNO, NO&B, NAPK, Kunstenbond, FNV Media & Culture, Platform ACCT, SFPK, the Platform for Freelance Musicians, and Werktuig PPO.

Execution is led by Platform ACCT.