Olly’s Interview
Kosara:What’s your name? Olly:Full name? Kosara:You can go with just your first name. Olly:Okay. Olly. Kosara:How old are you? Olly:17 Kosara:Where do you come from? Olly:I was born in the Netherlands but raised for most of my life in the South of Spain. Kosara:How long have you been in a Democratic school? Olly:For 6 years, […]
Noemie’s Interview
What if school meant traveling, sleeping in forests, and learning through adventure? In this episode, Noëmie from Belgium shares her experience in a democratic school and later at the alternative traveling school Lycée Voyageurs, where classes happened on the road. She describes organizing trips, making decisions in circles, and discovering the balance between freedom and […]
Ceder’s Interview
What’s it like to step into a sociocratic school and immediately start shaping it yourself? In this episode, Ceder from the Netherlands shares how joining De Vrije Ruimte opened the door to real participation, from launching a student coffee machine project to debating phone policies and helping redesign shared spaces. He reflects on finding his […]
Sjef’s Interview
Can a change of school help you discover who you really are? In this episode, Sjef from the Netherlands looks back on three years in a democratic high school that gave him space to grow at his own pace. What began as a practical decision became a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and shared responsibility. He […]
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 […]