This area of practice brings together reflection, experience and action by combining a podcast that explores sense of initiative through real perspectives from practice, an approach that frames how initiative appears in everyday work with young people, and a set of methods and workshops that translate ideas into concrete activities. The materials can be used independently or combined, depending on your context and learning goals.
This podcast explores how sense of initiative is understood and encouraged across different contexts of working with young people. It reflects on motivation, creativity and confidence, as well as the barriers that can prevent young people from taking the first step. The conversation brings together perspectives from youth work and other sectors, highlighting how initiative can be nurtured through trust, support and meaningful opportunities. The edited podcast transcript based on recorded discussion is available for download below.
Sense of initiative in practice is closely connected to autonomy, encouragement and the freedom to experiment. Young people may have ideas and motivation, but lack spaces where they feel safe to try, fail and learn. This approach focuses on creating supportive environments where initiative is welcomed, ideas are taken seriously and young people are encouraged to take action and reflect on outcomes.
The following methods and workshops support practical engagement with sense of initiative. They are designed to encourage creativity, proactive thinking and confidence, and can be adapted to different groups, ages and contexts. The methods and workshops related to this area of practice are available as printable cards and can be downloaded below.
This area of practice can be combined with the Navigation Cards to deepen reflection and discussion. The cards can help explore personal experiences related to initiative, challenge assumptions about confidence and leadership, and reflect on the consequences of taking or avoiding action.
They can be used before, during or after activities to support orientation and meaningful dialogue.