Differences between Youth Exchange, Training course and Erasmus+ Volunteering

When you are searching for an Erasmus+ opportunity to participate, you sure have noticed that there is a small difference in the way they call each of them, that will be either “Youth Exchange”, “Training Course” or “Erasmus+ Volunteering”. You are probably going to apply if you are interested in the project’s theme and the given information, but you are still questioning what’s the difference between all three of them and what are you really applying for? Today, we are here to cover you that question and give you as much information about the opportunities that Erasmus+ gives.

Let’s begin with Youth Exchanges. These programs focus on non-formal learning experiences and they are designed to bring together young people from different cultures and backgrounds to engage in a shared project or activity. The target group is young people aged 13-30 from different countries and the duration is minimum 5 and maximum 21 days (excluding travel days). The activities that you will be asked to take part in these projects are workshops, cultural activities, discussions and collaborative projects. They are based on learning by doing, with activities often centered around a particular theme (e.g. environment, art, sports etc). Some of the key features are that participants are usually involved in planning and organizing some aspects of the exchange, no formal educational qualifications are required (the learning is experiential), group leaders often facilitate activities but youth participants are the main drivers and lastly the emphasis is on intercultural exchange and building relationships.

Now, let’s continue with Training Courses. These ones are designed to improve skills, competencies, and knowledge of youth workers and educators. They focus on professional development, providing tools and methodologies that participants can use in their work with young people. The target group here has no limit age, is just about youth workers, educators, trainers, and sometimes young people who are involved in youth work and the duration is typically 2-14 days. The activities you will meet in these courses include workshops, seminars, and practical exercises aimed at skill development. Participants may also engage in simulations, role-playing, and discussions on best practices in youth work. The key features here are more structured and formal compared to Youth Exchanges, they are aimed at capacity building for participants who are or will be working with youth, focusing on specific topics or skills, such as inclusion or digital tools for youth work and participants are usually more experienced or interested in a specific field of youth work.

Last but not least, let’s see what Erasmus+ Volunteering (formerly European Voluntary Service (EVS)) is about. This type of volunteering allows young people to contribute to a community project in another country while developing personal, social and professional skills. It refers to young people between 18-30, who are interested in volunteering abroad and the duration for short-term is usually from 2 weeks to 2 months and long term can be up to 12 months. Participants volunteer with an organization on projects that may involve social work, environmental conversation, cultural activities, or education. The work is usually community-focused, and volunteers may engage in tasks like teaching, organizing events, or supporting non-profit initiatives. Some basic features for a volunteer are gaining real-life experience through volunteering and personal development, giving back to the community while learning new skills and languages, receiving support in the form of mentoring, accommodation, food, and sometimes a small allowance and emphasizing on non-formal learning and the development of transversal skills (e.g. communication, teamwork).

In conclusion, Youth Exchange focuses on intercultural learning and youth-led activities, Training Courses aimed at youth workers and educators and Erasmus+ Volunteering are based on community service and personal growth. As you can see, each type of project offers different experiences, so the choice depends on your goals, interests, and the kind of skills or knowledge you want to gain.

Now that you have been informed of everything about Erasmus+ opportunities, you can find your next adventure here and if you need any additional information do not hesitate to contact us through our social media or soya@squareofyouth.eu.