Bridging Worlds, Building Futures: The Power of School Social Work

In many South African schools, classrooms are more than places of learning; they are frontlines of resilience. Here, learners are not only expected to excel academically but must also navigate the complex realities of poverty, violence, mental health challenges, and systemic inequality.

 

Enter the school social worker, a crucial bridge between learners’ lived experiences and their potential for academic and personal growth. We had the privilege of hearing from two global social work experts Dr. Marelize Vergottini from North-West University (NWU) and Prof. Maria Kjellgren from Umeå University in Sweden, part of the organising team for the International School Social Work Conference 2025, to explore how school social work is transforming classrooms and learners’ lives in South Africa and across the globe.

Their insights shed light on the growing importance of psychosocial support in schools, the evolution of the profession, and how international collaboration is shaping the future of school social work.

 

School Social Work: A Lifeline for Learners

School social workers in South Africa provide essential psychosocial support, helping learners overcome trauma, abuse, neglect, substance misuse, and emotional struggles that hinder their ability to learn. Whether it’s one-on-one counselling, crisis intervention, awareness campaigns, or referrals, these professionals are dedicated to creating safe, nurturing learning environments.

They don’t work in isolation. Collaboration with parents, educators, and community stakeholders ensures that interventions are holistic and long-lasting.

 

A Profession on the Rise

Over the last two decades, school social work in South Africa has gained well-earned recognition. Social workers are being employed across various structures, from provincial Departments of Social Development and Education, to LSEN (Learners with Special Educational Needs) schools and NGOs. Some even operate independently through School Governing Bodies.

In 2015, the National Committee for School Social Work Education and Practice (NACOSSWEP) was established, successfully submitting draft guidelines for formal specialisation to the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP). While regulations have remained in draft form since 2020, their development signifies a clear movement toward professionalisation and structured growth.

 

A Global Movement, A Shared Mission

Today, school social work is practised in more than 50 countries. Regardless of geography, common challenges persist: underfunding, high caseloads, poor professional recognition, and limited training opportunities.

And yet, the profession continues to evolve. The COVID-19 pandemic proved just how critical school social workers are in responding to crises, safeguarding mental health, and keeping learners connected — even in isolation. It also sparked a surge in global collaboration, shared learning, and calls for standardised approaches.

 

Why Global Collaboration Matters

With similar issues facing learners across borders, from absenteeism to inequality and mental health, there's never been a more urgent need for connection, research, and innovation. That’s why international gatherings like the International School Social Work Conference are so essential.

These platforms ignite dialogue, fuel advocacy, and inspire collective action. By sharing tools, strategies, and stories, school social workers around the world can co-create a future where every learner receives the support they need to thrive.

 

Join the Movement: International School Social Work Conference

Let’s unite across borders to uplift learners, empower schools, and champion the role of school social workers in building resilient futures