Innhold
This activity is for participants taking part in the Cities of Learning study visit for Networking and Advocating.
Purpose: This session is designed for participants to connect face-to-face, share their initial thoughts and expectations, and build a sense of community for the days ahead. It also serves to set the stage for the visit by clarifying its core objectives related to networking and advocacy within the European context, aligning with the European Training Strategy (ETS) Competence Model for Youth Workers.
Why the Study Visit? (European Training Strategy - Networking and Advocating)
This study visit is deeply rooted in the European Training Strategy, focusing on "Networking and Advocating." It is understood that youth work does not happen in isolation. The work involves developing and managing partnerships with other relevant actors. Youth workers facilitate networking with others (both within their community and outside it) and advocate for the inherent value of youth work, non-formal learning, and recognition. They are conscious of the political values and beliefs at play in youth work and are committed to supporting young people in developing independent ‘political thought’. This directly corresponds with the "Networking and Advocating" competence area within the ETS Competence Model for Youth Workers, which is a key framework for competence development in Erasmus+ projects.
Objectives of the Study Visit
- To better understand networking within the field and to increase networking capacity within the Cities of Learning Network.
- To build and maintain relationships and develop opportunities through the Cities of Learning peer group.
- To gain knowledge about other stakeholders/networks/initiatives that the Cities of Learning Network is engaged with at the European level.
- To better understand the benefits and intentions of the CoL Network.
- To identify possible future partners and international opportunities.
- To identify what is understood by Advocacy and how this can be embedded in practice.
Study Visit Programme/Itinerary
Participants will receive a detailed overview of the study visit program for the upcoming days, including key sessions, planned visits to European initiatives and institutions, and logistical details for travel between Antwerp and Brussels.

Completion & Badge
By actively participating in the introductions, shared reflections, and engaging with the foundational context of this kick-off session, participants will earn the "CoL Connector" badge! This badge signifies active engagement in building the network from day one and embracing the study visit's core purpose, thereby contributing to the development of the "Networking and Advocating" competence as defined by the ETS Competence Model for Youth Workers. This badge has been issued by the Cities of Learning Network Partner trio who are managing the Network.
Lokasjon
Franklin Rooseveltplaats 12, 2060 Antwerpen, Belgium