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
Interview with Paula Urban, by Denis Oreshkov Denis: How old are you? Paula: I’m 21 D: Where are you from? P: From Germany. D: What is your connection to democratic education? P: I went to a democratic school, the Freie Schule Leipzig, from 6 to 17 years old and am now a council member of […]
Ishaan’s Interview
How does a decade in a democratic school shape your outlook on life? In this episode, Ishaan (20) shares his journey from the Freie Schule Leipzig to Berlin, reflecting on the freedom to choose his path, the value of real student voice, and the power of deciding for yourself when—and how—to learn. Ishaan discusses the […]
Mali and Piet’s Interview
What’s it really like to experience freedom and responsibility in a democratic school? In this episode, Mali and Piet from Berlin offer a candid look at their daily routines, the ups and downs of learning without grades or exams, and the unique motivation that comes from wanting to keep up with friends in class. They […]
Iris’s Interview
What’s it like to board at a democratic school on the other side of the world? In this episode, Iris from Taiwan shares her experiences at a holistic democratic boarding school, reflecting on the freedom to choose classes, express opinions, and shape her own path. She discusses the challenges and benefits of living away from […]
Disco’s Interview
What does true freedom in education feel like? In this episode, Disco shares their eye-opening experiencediscovering democratic education after years in a traditional school system. Hear how finding a safe space to grow, make choices, and be treated as an equal transformed Disco’s perspective on learning—and on life itself. From breaking with old hierarchies to […]
Aine’s Interview
Curious about what it’s really like to attend a democratic school? In this episode, Aine shares her personal journey of joining a democratic school at age 15 and discovering the freedom, responsibility, and sense of community it brings. She talks about learning to communicate respectfully, the unique culture of hand signals, and the challenges of […]
Guidelines for Teachers in Democratic Education
In keeping with the principles of lifelong learning and the need for continuous professional growth in an ever-changing world, QUEST presents its guidelines for teachers working in democratic schools.