SDE Youth Rights Accreditation

Youth Rights Accreditation for Self-Directed Ecucation

About SDE YRA

Self-Directed Education (SDE) Youth Rights Accreditation is an international accrediting agency for educational spaces that uphold human rights, with a particular focus on the rights of young people. The purpose of this accreditation is to support these unconventional spaces by providing recognition that bridges youth-centered methodologies with conventionally accepted educational frameworks. This validation helps youth rights education grow sustainably, gain legal recognition, and earn respect as a global movement with deep historical roots that have nurtured healthy, responsible, and fulfilled young people for centuries.

We acknowledge that young people are discriminated against internationally on a regular basis​, and we recognize that there are youth rights movements that are working to counter this discrimination​ and to provide safe, nurturing spaces for young people. It is our belief that in order to successfully overcome youth bias, youth rights work needs to be justified and made transparent to the conventional world

How To Apply

Educational spaces aligned with youth rights are encouraged to apply for accreditation. To apply or to find out more, please contact us. There is a three part process, including:

1. an application
2. remote interviews of community members
3. ultimately a site visit

The accreditation process accounts for local laws and cultural norms, recognizing that these may influence how youth rights methodologies are practiced. Additionally, the cost of accreditation is adjusted to local economies to ensure affordability worldwide. Accreditation is valid for seven years..

SDE YRA celebrates the diversity of cultures, abilities, races, genders, religions, non-religions, sexual orientations, and all ages. While we serve as a guiding resource for youth rights education, we recognize that many valuable educational spaces thrive without formal accreditation. Our goal is to empower and validate, not impose or dictate.

Partners & Supporters

Radical Learning logo

Radical Learning is an organization dedicated to transforming education by supporting educators and parents in stepping away from conventional, outcome-driven models and embracing relationship-centered, consent-based approaches. Through authentic connection, we empower adults to support youth autonomy and self-directed learning. Our mission is to humanize education by challenging outdated paradigms and equipping adults with tools that nurture collaboration, communication, and consent, ensuring young people’s agency is honored. Together with SDE YRA, we are committed to advocating for equitable learning environments that uplift youth voices and provide safe, liberating spaces for all learners.