From October 11–16, 2026, we traveled to Bourges, France, with a group of professionals working in the fields of youth, education, culture, and sports to exchange ideas on various approaches to fostering social participation. The study visit focused on how young people can be empowered through education, culture, and sports, and the role that international cooperation plays in this process.
The diverse program offered participants the opportunity to get to know various local institutions and organizations, gain insights into French practices, and gather fresh inspiration for their own work.
Sports as a Space for Participation and Protection
A key focus of the study visit was the role of sports in youth and educational work. At the CREPS Centre-Val de Loire - a French center dedicated to sports development and high-performance training - participants gained insight into the institution’s operations and its wide range of programs. Through workshops, the group explored specific topics, such as the prevention and combatting of violence in sports. This included a particular emphasis on the protection of young athletes and a discussion regarding the responsibilities held by sports institutions and educational professionals.
A highlight of the program was a meeting with Sarah Michel, the former captain of the French national basketball team. She shared her experiences from the world of elite sports, as well as her current work at CREPS. Additionally, an exchange with a Paralympic athlete provided compelling perspectives on inclusion and the work of the French Paralympic Committee.
Insights into French Youth and Cultural Work
In addition to sports, the visit focused on various institutions dedicated to education, culture, and social participation. A visit to the Ligue de l'Enseignement du Cher introduced the participants to an organization in Bourges that promotes educational opportunities, cultural activities, and engagement in social life.
The youth center MJCS La Châtre also opened its doors, showcasing its diverse range of projects for children, young people, and adults. This allowed the professionals to exchange ideas on different approaches to local youth work and to identify both similarities and differences compared to their own practices.
Another stop on the itinerary was the Antre Peaux cultural center in Bourges- a creative hub where artists can come together to develop collaborative projects.
European Cooperation and New Connections
The European dimension of cultural work was also a key focus. A visit to the office for Bourges as a European Capital of Culture 2028 provided insights into the concept and planned activities. It highlighted the potential of cultural projects to bring people together and strengthen European cooperation at the local level.
Furthermore, the group engaged in discussions with professionals from the Ministry for Youth, Sports, and Community Life in the Centre-Val de Loire region. A subsequent dinner with various partner organizations offered an opportunity to continue these conversations in a relaxed atmosphere and forge new professional connections.
Beyond the formal program, there was also time to explore Bourges together and for members of the Franco-German group to get to know one another better.
Fresh Inspiration for Professional Practice
The study visit demonstrated just how valuable it can be for educational practitioners to look beyond their own national borders. The encounters with French professionals and the insights gained into various institutions opened up new perspectives on how to support young people and shape their development.
A big thank you to all the participants and our French partners for the stimulating exchange and the time spent together!
