About Teaching and Learning in Difficult Times
The dynamic migration flows we have witnessed in recent years – predominantly as a result of the military conflict in Ukraine – have a significant impact on multiple aspects related to the quality of life of those fleeing war and seeking asylum. Education is one of the areas where the impact is most noticeable. The accumulation of traumatic experiences, especially in children and adolescents, creates a need to upgrade the skills of professionals working with them, based on a trauma-sensitive and survivor-centred approach, in order to achieve full support, empowerment and integration.
In response to these needs – and as a result of its long experience with a wide variety of educational and English programmes, including the Language for Resilience programme – the British Council has developed the Teaching and Learning in Difficult Times programme, which has already been implemented in Ukraine, Poland and Romania.
The aim of the training programme is to enhance the skills and competences of professionals in the fields of social work, education and pedagogy who work with children from Ukraine, as well as with other migrant and vulnerable children who have experienced trauma.
Programme details
The pilot phase of the programme starts in March 2024 and is aimed at pre-school, primary and secondary teachers, as well as pedagogy specialists and social workers working with migrant children and other vulnerable groups.
The training will take place from 19 to 21 March 2024 in Sofia. Over the three working days, participants will develop their skills in recognising the effects of trauma, its impact on learners and its relation to certain types of behaviour, and will also explore ways of turning the classroom into a safe space.
Working with British Council international trainers, participants will learn how to respond to the needs of children who have experienced trauma. The course provides both theoretical background and practical activities for working with and teaching learners who have experienced traumatising events.
Participants will learn how to:
- create a trauma-sensitive learning environment
- manage challenging behaviours
- make classrooms safer spaces for learners.
The training will be delivered in English and applicants are expected to have a working knowledge of the language.
How to apply
To take part in the programme, please complete the online application form by Sunday 25 February 2024.
Participation in the programme is free of charge. For participants travelling from outside Sofia, we will cover transportation and accommodation costs, and additionally cover meals during the day for all attendees.
Participants must commit to attending the full programme. The awarding of a certificate for this professional development course will depend on your attendance.