Events by Children's Identity & Citizenship European Association

As part of its ongoing commitment to practical impact, the Children's Identity & Citizenship European Association (CiCea) presents a specialized one-day workshop titled "Building Youth Civic Journeys." Hosted at the iconic Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield, this event moves beyond traditional academic lectures to provide a hands-on, collaborative environment. The workshop is designed for those who work directly with children and adolescents, aiming to map out the "civic journeys" that young people take from early childhood through to early adulthood. The core philosophy of this workshop is that citizenship is not a destination but a continuous process of learning and engagement. In the current socio-political climate, many young people feel detached from formal political structures. This event seeks to bridge that gap by exploring alternative forms of participation, such as community activism, environmental advocacy, and digital expression. We will analyze the barriers that prevent marginalized groups from feeling a sense of "European" identity and work together to find inclusive solutions. Attendees will participate in "breakout labs" where they will use the latest CiCea research data to design curriculum modules that can be implemented in secondary schools and youth clubs. These modules focus on critical thinking, empathy, and the understanding of democratic institutions. A highlight of the day will be the "Voice of the Future" panel, where local Huddersfield students will present their views on what it means to be a citizen in 2026, providing raw and authentic feedback to the researchers and policymakers in the room. The workshop also serves as a strategic planning session for future cross-border projects. With the UK's evolving relationship with European educational networks, this gathering is an essential touchpoint for maintaining strong professional links and ensuring that British youth remain connected to the broader European civic discourse. By the end of the day, every participant will leave with a "Civic Toolkit" containing resources, contact lists, and actionable strategies to foster active citizenship in their own professional spheres.

The Children's Identity & Citizenship European Association (CiCea) is proud to announce its 2026 Regional Symposium, hosted in the historic heart of West Yorkshire at the University of Huddersfield. This two-day intensive gathering serves as a critical precursor to the international conference, focusing specifically on the evolving landscape of "Civic Belonging in a Divided World." As societies across Europe face increasing polarization, the role of education in fostering a cohesive sense of identity and active citizenship has never been more vital. The symposium will delve into how children and young people navigate their roles as citizens within both local and European contexts. Huddersfield, with its rich industrial heritage and diverse contemporary population, provides the perfect backdrop for discussing the "Global-Local" (Glocal) identity. The program includes a series of peer-reviewed paper presentations that examine the pedagogical shifts required to address social justice, human rights, and democratic participation in the classroom. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with leading academics who are at the forefront of identity research. A particular focus for this Huddersfield meeting is the integration of digital literacy into citizenship education—understanding how the "digital citizen" operates in a world of algorithmic influence and social media activism. We invite teachers from across the UK and Europe to share their classroom practices, ensuring that theoretical research remains grounded in the realities of modern schooling. In addition to formal sessions, the symposium emphasizes the importance of community. Networking breaks and the gala dinner are designed to foster long-term collaborations between European institutions and UK researchers. Whether you are an early-career researcher looking for mentorship or a seasoned practitioner aiming to influence policy, this event offers a platform to voice your insights and contribute to the collective mission of CiCea. Join us in Huddersfield to help shape the future of civic education for the next generation of European citizens.