October 2025
Hi everyone! October has been a month shaped by powerful conversations, meaningful experiences, and international collaborations. After almost two years in the project, YOUCARE (Youth Creating Action Research on Eco-Anxiety) has come to an end, closing with a Final Conference which gathered 29 young people from Bulgaria, Ireland, Italy, and Lithuania to present their findings […]
September 2025
Helloo The month of September has been a busy month for QUEST, full of energy, deadlines, and team-building moments! The month has started with welcoming new roles within the team! After months of dedication as interns, Sara Acevedo and Elena López have now taken on the roles of Project Officer and Communication Officer, respectively, while […]
Ola’s Interview
What happens when you switch from a traditional school to a democratic one in your final years? In this episode, Ola (19) from Warsaw shares how joining a free democratic school transformed her outlook and confidence. She opens up about the powerful difference of being treated with genuine respect by adults, the challenges of accessibility […]
Pavel’s Interview
What does it mean to have a real say at university? In this episode, Pavel (24) from Bulgaria shares his experiences as an elected student council member, moving from organizing events to shaping important decisions for his peers. Hear how he helped empower student clubs, advocated for practical changes like first aid supplies, and learned […]
Tymoteusz’s Interview
How does a democratic school experience shape your path into adulthood? In this episode, Tymoteusz shares his journey from traditional Polish schools to discovering new independence and self-awareness at a free democratic school. He reflects on the freedom to choose what and how to learn, the importance of community decision-making, and the value of open […]
Kalin’s Interview
What’s it like to find freedom and acceptance after switching from a traditional to a democratic school? In this episode, Kalin (15) from Sofia shares how his journey began with uncertainty but quickly turned into a story of confidence, creativity, and belonging. Hear how democratic education allowed him to pursue his passion for acting, take […]
Princess and Mary’s Interview
How do young people find their voice in democracy? In this episode, Princess (18) and Mary (14) from Ireland share their experiences on youth advisory panels, student councils, and leading debate clubs. They discuss the importance of being heard, shaping children’s rights, and engaging with policymakers in Ireland’s parliament. From tackling tough topics in debate […]
Ijsbrand’s Interview
What’s it like to truly have a say in your own education? In this episode, IJsbrand (18) from Vrije Ruimte in The Hague shares how democratic schooling has shaped his daily life, his confidence, and his view on learning. From participating in sociocratic circles and real decision-making to exploring personal interests —like researching hydrogen mobility—IJsbrand […]
Friedrich and Frida’s Interview
Ever wondered what daily life in a democratic school is really like? In this episode, Friedrich (12) and Frida (14) from Berlin share their honest perspectives on freedom, fairness, and friendship in democratic education. They reflect on the contrast with traditional schools, the power of having a voice, and how learning can happen anywhere—from rewriting […]
Paula’s Interview
How does growing up in a democratic school shape your life and perspective? In this episode, Paula (21) from Leipzig looks back on ten years at a free school, sharing memories of creative projects, engaging lessons, and real involvement in decision-making. She explains how having a voice in rules and responsibilities built a sense of […]