YLEA accredited badgeYouth Learning Excellence Accreditation
Standards

Six standards. One quality mark.

Every YLEA review considers a program against six standards. Together they describe what excellent structured youth learning looks like in practice.

Standard 01

Program structure

A program is designed intentionally, with clear scope, sequencing, and defined structured learning hours.

  • Documented program overview, aims, and duration
  • Coherent sequencing of topics and skills
  • Structured learning hours appropriate to the age group
  • Clear entry expectations and pathways
Standard 02

Learning outcomes

The program defines what learners will know, understand, and be able to do by the end.

  • Outcomes written in clear, learner-focused language
  • Aligned to the program's category and age range
  • Realistic and measurable within the delivery model
  • Communicated to learners and families
Standard 03

Age-appropriate delivery

Materials, pacing, and interactions are matched to the cognitive, social, and emotional stage of the learners.

  • Content pitched at the appropriate developmental level
  • Session length and cognitive load are age-appropriate
  • Language, examples, and imagery are suitable and inclusive
  • Accessibility considerations for diverse learners
Standard 04

Teaching and engagement

Programs are led by capable facilitators who create meaningful, active learning experiences.

  • Facilitators have relevant experience or qualifications
  • Active learning strategies beyond passive delivery
  • Constructive feedback and encouragement built into sessions
  • Group sizes and support ratios appropriate to the format
Standard 05

Evidence of learning

The program surfaces real evidence that learners have made progress against the stated outcomes.

  • Rubrics, checkpoints, projects, or portfolios
  • Formative feedback to learners during the program
  • A summary of progress at the end of the program
  • Clear distinction between participation and demonstrated learning
Standard 06

Safeguarding and ethical practice

Young learners are kept safe, respected, and protected, online and in person.

  • Documented safeguarding and code of conduct policies
  • Appropriate background checks and staff training
  • Responsible, age-appropriate use of technology and AI tools
  • Clear channels for concerns from learners and families

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