Tomas Bata University in Zlín

Social Pedagogy in Practice

On Wednesday, 23 November 2022, the Faculty of Humanities at UTB in Zlín hosted the traditional workshop Social Pedagogy in Practice in its auditorium. The event was primarily aimed at students of the Social Pedagogy programme, who attended in large numbers across all year groups.

The workshop’s objective was to familiarise students with the role of social pedagogues in primary schools. As this is a relevant and increasingly needed position within school counselling teams, the entire workshop was dedicated to this topic. Despite the legislative adversity, it was evident during the event how much the positions of social educators are expanding today and how the demand for these qualified professionals is increasing in schools. This was followed by the contribution of Mgr. Libuše Pecková Svitáková and Mgr. Elefterie Svačinová. Social educators from Ostrava presented the primary schools where they work (Primary School U Kříže and Primary School Generála Janka). In addition to their work, they talked about project challenges and obstacles in financing social educators. The workshop was opened by Mgr. Jiří Daněk, Chair of the Association of Social Pedagogues, from the primary school in Přerov (Boženy Němcové 16). He began by introducing and describing the scope of his work at the school, then focused on his collaboration with other professionals within the school, such as the school prevention methodologist, guidance counsellor, special education teacher, and school psychologist. He also discussed the activities of the Association of Social Pedagogues and invited students from FHS UTB in Zlín to join. Since social educators can also be employed in social services, the third contribution was also made by a graduate of the Social Pedagogy programme at FHS UTB in Zlín, Mgr. Bianca Sivíková, who works as a social worker at the Social Activation Service for Families with Children in Zlín. She presented the procedure of working with the family, the possibilities of their cooperation and especially her own experience from practice. She shared the challenges she faces but also highlighted the rewarding aspects of her profession. The final contribution was given by Bc. Václav Rosík, a social pedagogue at a primary school in Brno (nám. 28. října). He focused on the issues faced by schools in Brno, introducing students to possible interventions for the current problems affecting children and their families. He also emphasised the demanding nature of the profession, particularly when working in socially excluded areas. A big thank you goes to all the speakers who were willing to share their valuable practical experiences with our students. We also extend our gratitude to the students for their participation and contributions to the discussions.