Eemsdelta Campus

In 2015, research showed that all educational buildings in the Eemsdelta region (Groningen) were at risk due to earthquakes from gas extraction. Faced with the choice to reinforce or rebuild, a bold solution emerged: a new educational campus.

More than a safe learning environment, the campus aimed to revitalize the region—supporting municipalities, schools, businesses, the labor market, cultural life, and most importantly, its youth. It offered a cost-effective, future-proof model that also safeguarded vocational education (MBO) by integrating it into a shared learning ecosystem.

The result is the Eemsdelta Campus in Appingedam, the Netherlands. It brings together three secondary schools, a practical training program, and a sports cluster. With 4 hectares of outdoor space, the campus hosts 1,700 students and is earthquake-resistant, energy-supplying, and circular in design.

The campus is a regional connector, embedded in a green learning landscape that activates the rural corridor between Appingedam and Delfzijl. Shared facilities—arts spaces, science labs, sports areas, and a restaurant—foster collaboration. The surrounding park doubles as an outdoor classroom, lab, nursery, and sports field.

Beyond school hours, the campus remains a vibrant space for the wider community. In the evenings, on weekends, and during school holidays, local sports and arts clubs actively use the facilities, while the landscape park remains open to everyone—strengthening ties between students and the broader community.

Sustainability is central. Nature-Based Solutions are integrated throughout: a water pond buffers rainwater, prevents flooding, and cools the area in summer, while serving as a student rest area. The rich, diverse landscape strengthens biodiversity and enhances climate resilience.

The Eemsdelta Campus is a visionary response to crisis—redefining education and empowering the region through innovation, sustainability, and connection.