This competence model is specifically adapted to European youth work and the principles of non-formal learning.

The following principles are applicable to every competence. The principles of non-formal learning behind this competence model are:

• • Young person centredness (a focus on young persons and their development)
• • Agreed on learning objectives between youth workers and young persons
• • Transparency
• • Confidentiality
• • Attention to content and methodology
• • Voluntariness
• • Participation
• • Ownership of the development process
• • Empowerment
• • Democratic values and practices