Peer Learning in Action: Strengthening Outcomes for Children and Youth

A blog by Diederik van Iwaarden, Eurochild member from Utrecht University, on the ESF+ Council Sweden meeting with Dutch partners during a three-day exchange in the Netherlands, focusing on shared learning and practical experience.

From 14–16 April, we welcomed partners to Utrecht and Arnhem for a peer learning visit centred on exchange, inspiration, and collaboration across sectors. From our role at Dynamics of Youth, Utrecht University, we organised and hosted parts of this visit to facilitate connections between research, practice and policy, in line with our mission to improve opportunities for children and young people. Initiated by Eurochild, the visit brought together the Swedish ESF+ Council and Dutch stakeholders to explore how EU social funding can create meaningful impact.

The delegation from Sweden included representatives working in different parts of the country in both rural and urban settings. With their practical experience at a municipality level (for example free music lessons in Örebro and after-school activities in Uppsala) the scene was set for lots of exchange and learning with Dutch participants!

The programme combined field visits, policy discussions and academic insights. It began with a welcome in Utrecht, followed by a visit to the National Programme Arnhem Oost, where participants gained first-hand insights into local approaches supporting children, youth and families. The learning and exchange continued during two inspiring site visits. At secondary school ‘t Venster, discussions focused on inclusive education through tailored support and strong school–community partnerships. At youth work organisation Presikhaaf University, participants explored outreach work and the importance of building trust and accessible spaces for young people.

It takes a community of EU networks, academics and practitioners to drive change for children

A key moment was the session hosted by the Equal Opportunities Alliance, bringing together representatives from government, municipalities and schools. Through panel discussions and group work, participants explored the importance of collaboration across governance levels and shared experiences from both Sweden and the Netherlands.

On the last day at Dynamics of Youth, Utrecht University, the focus shifted to research and innovation. We highlighted how interdisciplinary collaboration helps connect scientific insights with societal challenges, and how initiatives such as this peer learning visit contribute to capacity building and mutual learning. Contributions from Eurochild and Dynamics of Youth underscored the importance of linking policy, practice, and research to create sustainable impact. An inspiring keynote emphasised the need of investing in children and young people, while underlining that long-term relationships and personal connections are essential for initiatives to be truly effective in practice.

Key takeaways from the visit included:

• Co-creation and partnership are essential for effective and sustainable outcomes
• Free-time activities, such as sport and culture, play a vital role in children’s wellbeing and inclusion
• EU funding must remain accessible, human-centred and focused on children’s needs
• Stronger links between policy, research and practice enhance impact

Participants concluded the visit feeling re-energised, strengthened in their connections, and united in their commitment to continuing efforts that support children and young people.