Méér Kunst & Cultuur in School en Omgeving programme; A midterm review of the activities carried out by the Méér Muziek in de Klas Foundation

Research
The Méér Muziek in de Klas Foundation was established in 2015 at the initiative of the then Minister of Education, Culture and Science (OCW), Jet Bussemaker, with the aim of structurally embedding music education in primary education. Driven by both the intrinsic value of music and its positive effects on children’s cognitive, social, and creative development, the foundation has since worked to make music education accessible to all pupils in the Netherlands. In 2023, this effort was broadened through the programme Méér Kunst & Cultuur in School en Omgeving, which extends the focus beyond music to include a wider range of arts and cultural disciplines. Through this expansion, the foundation aims to create equal opportunities for all children and young people to actively participate in cultural activities, regardless of their background.

As part of the midterm review of this programme, the Méér Muziek in de Klas Foundation commissioned SEO Economic Research to evaluate the progress, effectiveness, and efficiency of the foundation’s activities.

Results
Goal attainment was assessed based on the three pillars defined by the foundation within the programme Méér Kunst & Cultuur in School en Omgeving. Progress on these pillars presents a positive picture: most objectives have been achieved and, in some cases, even exceeded.

The impact assessment, based on surveys and interviews, indicates that the foundation’s catalytic role contributes to a broad and diverse range of arts and cultural activities. Schools report positive effects of these activities, including improvements in students’ cognitive development, concentration, collaboration, social skills, and self-confidence.

The efficiency analysis shows that the foundation uses its resources effectively and carefully. All three pillars have been realised within the available budgets.

Method
The assessment of goal attainment and efficiency is based on monitoring data provided annually by the foundation, which were systematically analysed.

In addition, an annual survey was conducted among schools participating in coalitions within the School and Environment scheme. This survey provides insights into the reach, the range of activities, and their perceived effects. In-depth interviews with school leaders, cultural coordinators, and representatives of cultural institutions were conducted to interpret and enrich the quantitative findings with qualitative insights.