From Principles to Practice: A Non-Formal Learning Lab — Germany

Between 22 and 27 October 2025 I had the chance to join the training course “From Principles to Practice: A Non-Formal Learning Lab”. Together with participants from Germany, Austria, Poland, Lithuania and the Czech Republic, we formed a colourful, international group ready to dive into the world of non-formal education. The project was hosted by Youth Power and supported by EYCB as my sending organisation.

 

Right from the first day, the atmosphere was friendly, relaxed and full of curiosity. Thanks to the great preparation of the facilitators, it didn’t take long until we felt like a real team. We explored what makes non-formal learning so unique — not by listening to long explanations, but by trying everything out for ourselves. We experimented with methods like world café, buzzgroups, silent floor and line of agreement, discovering how creative and engaging learning can be when everyone is involved.

 

In the second half of the week we moved from testing methods to creating our own. In small groups we designed short activities on topics that matter today: digital addiction, returning to nature, mental health and emotional intelligence. Standing in front of the group as a facilitator was both challenging and exciting — and the honest peer feedback afterwards helped us see where we can grow next.

 

Outside the workshop room, Berlin gifted us its typical vibe: a mix of culture, history and relaxed city life. Even simple moments — visiting pubs or evening walks through the city — helped us connect even more as a group.

 

Looking back, the project had something special. It wasn’t only about learning new tools; it was about discovering how people from different countries can work together, inspire one another and create meaningful learning experiences.

 

Jakub Š.