STRONG

The program includes ten group sessions (ideally for four to eight participants) on a weekly basis and one individual session with each participant aimed at reflecting on the child's experience and preparing for leading an activity with other children in a follow-up group session. For each session, a clear manual is prepared with activity descriptions, worksheets and other materials for the pupils. All supporting materials are available in Czech and Ukrainian and also prepare for meetings with parents, teachers or interpreters. Through the STRONG programme, pupils will learn to understand their emotions, use appropriate relaxation techniques, set personal goals and develop positive thinking. They gradually become aware of their strengths and the sources of support they have in their environment. Group and individual sessions offer students the opportunity to share an experience related to their challenging life situation.

For more information about the program and training, please contact akademie@so-fa.cz. 

STRONG stands for Supporting Transition Resilience Of Newcomer Groups. The programme was created in the USA in response to the war in Syria and the related refugee crisis. It is a group-based, ten-week psychosocial support program for newly arrived students with potentially traumatic experiences. It offers specific activities for pupils to help them develop their personal strengths and strengthen their resilience and ability to cope with stress. This helps them to adapt in and out of the school environment and improves their educational outcomes. The implementation of the programme also reduces the psychological burden on teachers associated with educating traumatised pupils. Training in the implementation of the programme is particularly suitable for school psychologists, special educators, educational counsellors, prevention methodologists and teachers.  The programme is also suitable for non-formal education and low-threshold institutions for children and youth. The implementation of the programme is possible after a two-day training course, which introduces the participants in detail to the programme concept and activities for pupils. Participants receive a detailed manual for each lesson of the programme and materials for pupils.