The Portfolio looks at those things which youth work usually or most commonly does.

We call these the functions of youth work.

The functions are grouped into three categories. The first group is considered core. The second and third groups are seen as ‘acting in service’ of the core group.

• 1. Functions focusing on the relationship with and outcomes for young people (core group). These are considered essential and represent the core of what youth work is supposed to do according to Council of Europe practice and quality standards. They are applicable in diverse contexts and settings, including digital settings.
• 2. Functions focusing on self, practice and field of youth work. These represent reflective, learning, co-operative, experimental and innovative aspects relevant for the youth work community of practice and are in the service of the core functions.
• 3. Functions focusing on community and society. These represent a broader view on the role and effects of youth work practice and are in service of core functions.

From these functions of youth work, the Portfolio tries to understand better what youth workers should be able to do, in other words, the competences youth workers need to have to do youth work well.

The competences that one needs to have in order to do youth work have been divided into two categories:

• Core competences that make this field of activity unique and are closely connected to the core group of functions of youth work that focus on the relationship with and outcomes for young people. These competences are primarily relevant for individuals doing youth work.
• Other competences that are important for youth work and possibly other fields of activity. These are, in principle, relevant for individuals, teams and organisations doing youth work, as well as for the community of youth work practice, and for the wider community and society. Typically, individual youth worker competences are complemented by the competences of others within their team and/or organisations. These can also be understood as ‘collective competences’.

Together, the identified functions and competences make up what we call the Portfolio Competence Framework.

The Portfolio should be understood as a blueprint that can be adapted to your specific context. The list of functions and competences presented in the framework is by no means exhaustive. Other functions and competences could be outlined as specialisations, or for the purpose of contextualisation and adaptation to specific young people and their needs. Such additional and more specific functions, and thus competences, could be further developed by users in relation to the different needs of young people, interests of youth workers and the contexts in which youth work is set. Furthermore, you may find that some competences in the framework are not relevant for the work you do, the young people you engage with or the context in which youth work is happening. You may want to inform the Council of Europe Youth Department about adaptations you undertake. You can do so by contacting us here.