Rethinking youth work, through nature-based and experiential approaches

Rethinking Youth Work is a 9-day international training for youth workers, educators, facilitators, and trainers active in the field of non-formal learning and youth work.

The activity invites participants to pause and reflect on their current practice, and to explore how youth work can respond more meaningfully to today’s realities. Instead of a fixed programme, the training creates space for shared inquiry — bringing forward questions that often remain unaddressed in everyday work.

Set fully outdoors, the process integrates nature-based and experiential approaches as a core part of learning. Nature is not only a setting, but a condition that supports reflection, presence, and deeper exploration.

The training follows a journey from self to practice. Participants will explore their role in youth work, reflect on what shapes their way of working, and examine how their approaches relate to the needs of young people today. Through this, they are invited to rethink existing methods, relationships, and structures.

The process is intentionally open and participatory. Each day begins with a shared input, followed by space for participants to bring their own questions, experiences, and practices. Learning emerges through exchange, reflection, and co-creation.

This training is designed for those working in non-formal education who are open to questioning their practice, engaging in a reflective process, and learning together with others in a nature-based environment.