North-West University expert aims to assist social workers at schools to navigate complex legal frameworks and policies

Dr Marelize Vergottini, a senior lecturer in social work at the North-West University (NWU), aims to support social workers at schools by equipping them with the necessary skills and know-how to navigate the legal framework in their everyday work-life.

She recently held several two-day workshops for school social workers in Vanderbijlpark, Bloemfontein and Pretoria.

According to Dr Vergottini these workshops are designed to provide school social workers with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and practices that are essential in their profession within the education field.

“We aim to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complex legal framework and policies that govern school social work. By providing participants with a deep understanding of the legal and policy landscape, the workshop ensures that they can easily apply this knowledge to their everyday work,” she says.

Not only will participants gain knowledge on the basic legal framework, policies, and scope of practice that govern school social work, but they will also be able to apply the often-tedious details found in legal and policy documents.

In addition to the legal and policy aspects, the workshop also focuses on defining the specific roles and tasks of school social workers within an educational setting.

“School social workers play a crucial part in supporting students’ overall well-being and academic success. Through engaging and interactive exercises, participants will enhance their skills in areas such as identifying and assessing students’ needs, providing individual and group counselling, facilitating conflict resolution, and collaborating with teachers and parents to create a supportive learning environment.

“This empowers participants to make a positive and meaningful impact on the lives of students and the school community as a whole,” says Dr Vergottini.