P S Y C H O S O C I A L

W E L L B E I N G

S E R I E S

Mainstreaming Psychosocial
Care and Support within the
Education Sector
For school communities working with children and families affected by HIV and AIDS, poverty and conflict

REPSSI is a regional non-governmental organisation working with partners to promote psychosocial care and support (PSS)
for children affected by HIV and AIDS, poverty and conflict in East and Southern Africa.
The REPSSI Psychosocial Wellbeing Series
Through this series, REPSSI strives to publish high-quality, user-friendly, evidence-based manuals and guidelines, all characterised by
subject matter that can be said to address the issue of psychosocial wellbeing. Within the series, different publications are aimed at
different levels of audience or user. This audience includes: 1) community workers, 2) a variety of social actors whose work is not
explicitly psychosocial in nature, but in which it is felt to be crucial to raise awareness around psychosocial issues, 3) caregivers,
parents, youth and children, 4) specialised psychosocial and mental health practitioners. Apart from formal impact assessments,
towards further developing the evidence base for our tools and approaches, we welcome user feedback around our materials.
The standardised feedback form and a full list of all the titles in the series can be downloaded from www.resspi.org
Jonathan Morgan
Editor, REPSSI Psychosocial Wellbeing Series

Email: knowledge@repssi.org

Website: www.repssi.org

Telephone: +27 11 998

2 5820

Postal address: PO Box 1669, Randburg, 2125, Johannesburg, South Africa

Contents
Foreword
1 Introduction

4 Practical steps for mainstreaming psychosocial

support into schools
19

Participatory framework for building caring

school communities

Key messages in this guide

The story and people behind this publication

Who is this guide for?

Terms used in this guide

How to use this guide

What does a school that has mainstreamed

psychosocial support look like?

2 Understanding psychosocial well-being

19

7 Tools, approaches and programmes for

mainstreaming psychosocial support
into schools

40

Journey of our dreams tool

40

Hero Books

41

Memory Work

43

5 Guiding principles for mainstreaming

psychosocial support into schools

23

Tree of Life

43

Guiding principles of psychosocial support

23

Kids clubs

43

Creating a caring and stable environment for

The home school partnership programme

44

learners affected by adversity

25

The early literacy support programme

44

The educator as the primary tool in the classroom 26

EMEP - schools as community hubs

45

Learners as active participants

Other useful resources and contact details

47

What is psychosocial wellbeing?

Supporting parents to build on psychosocial

What is psychosocial care and support?

wellbeing at home

Circles of support

Understanding resilience in children

The psychosocial impact of HIV and AIDS, poverty

and conflict on the school community

11
13

27

8 Tracking your progress

51

Organisational assessment

51

Assessing different aspects of our school functioning

52

29

6 Addressing specific psychosocial issues

in schools

31

Common psychosocial issues affecting schools

31
32

Applying the principles of psychosocial support

3 Understanding psychosocial care and support

within the context of the education sector 15

Examples of psychosocial issues and approaches

to address these issues

33

Why caring school communities are vital for learners 15

Respecting differences

36

Building a caring school community

16

Friendship and social integration

37

Schools as Centres of Care and Support (SCCS)

16

Building self-esteem

37

Child Friendly Schools (CFS)

18

Encouraging cooperation and care amongst children 37

Ethical considerations when working with children 39

Keeping gender in mind

39

9 Concluding remarks

53

10 References

54

Foreword
REPSSI1 is a regional non-governmental organisation working

the psychosocial needs of many children. Through increasing

Learners are at the heart of the learning process (UNICEF.

with partners to promote psychosocial care and support (PSS)

their focus on psychosocial support they may become caring

2008. p 2). Their intellectual, physical and psychosocial

for children affected by HIV and AIDS, poverty and conflict in

environments where all children are encouraged to reach their

wellbeing is the key to successful education. These guidelines

East and Southern Africa.

full potential as human beings. Unlike stand-alone, counselling

provide practical steps to mainstream psychosocial support

type interventions - in which one counsellor is able to engage

into your school community. We hope that schools and other

REPSSI advocates that services, programmes and policies

with only one child at a time - by mainstreaming PSS into

stakeholders will find them useful and inspiring to improve the

designed to support vulnerable communities need to respond

schools, makes it possible to reach significant numbers of

wellbeing of children and families.

holistically to the needs and rights of communities and children.

children of school-going age.

It is important that psychosocial care and support programmes

are not only specialised stand-alone programmes.

Learners at school face many challenges as a result of the

psychological and social consequences of HIV and AIDS,

Instead, REPSSI advocates for the social and emotional needs of

poverty, and, in some instances, war and conflict. The main

children and their caregivers to be addressed in an integrated

role of schools is to offer learners high-quality education that

manner. This can be done by mainstreaming psychosocial care

enables them to reach their full potential. It is now recognised

and support into all types of programmes designed to support

that schools may be transformed into centres of care and

vulnerable communities. Schools are ideally placed to address

support in order for them to fulfil this critical role.

The REPSSI vision is that all children affected by HIV

and AIDS, conflict and poverty benefit from stable,
affectionate care and support.
1: Thus far, REPSSI has produced psychosocial mainstreaming guidelines in eight programmatic areas.

Noreen Masiiwa Huni

Executive Director,
REPSSI, August, 2009

Introduction

Many experienced educators and school managers find that

is affected by the burden of HIV and AIDS, tuberculosis

the learning abilities of children are directly related to their

and malaria), as well as poverty and food insecurity. REPSSI

psychosocial support for learners is provided in the

wellbeing at home and in the community. Children who are

partners felt that it was of immediate importance to develop

context of caring relationships in everyday life: at home, at

affected by violence, poverty and hunger, displacement or

guidelines for mainstreaming psychosocial support (PSS) in

school and in the community.

illness in the home often struggle to reach their full learning

schools in order to help schools respond effectively to the

potential. On the other hand, children whose emotional, social

psychosocial needs of learners. Various school community

and physical needs are met within a caring environment may

leaders were consulted to learn from what schools are already

Learners have the right to high-quality education as well

go on to reach this potential, despite the difficulties they have

doing to support learners psychosocial wellbeing and to come

as to adequate health, social and welfare services and

faced in life.

up with practical suggestions on how to mainstream PSS in

support.

school communities.

The most appropriate and sustainable source of

Externally-provided assistance needs to support, and not

undermine, these natural systems of care.

Learners psychosocial wellbeing, and those of their

primary caregivers, are best met by integrated services

The basis for the guidelines was informed by the results of a

that address economic, material, educational, social,

psychosocial study conducted by REPSSI in August 2007. The

study took place among learners, educators and community

Key messages in this guide

members in four countries - Mozambique, Swaziland, Tanzania

This guide highlights the following:

and Zambia. The study revealed that learners face a wide

By addressing psychosocial issues and needs of learners,

emotional and spiritual needs

Awareness of development 2 factors: educators need
to know which internal and external resources are present

range of psychosocial problems in schools. These directly

significant barriers to learning and to holistic development

in a learners life and how these impact on the learners

impact on their academic performance. Moreover, the region

can be removed.

developmental milestones3.

2: These factors are related to the process of development in the different phases of a persons life. At each stage of their lives, people are presented with specific tasks/goals
and challenges. These might be physical, social or psychological Please refer to the definition of holistic development on page 11. Educators need to know that children of
different age groups face different challenges and need to achieve different developmental goals. An adolescent, for example, has to begin to achieve more independence.
3: Milestones refer to specific tasks that most children learn at a particular age. For example, most children learn to crawl by 7 months. It is important to note that the age range
for various milestones can be quite broad and therefore should not be the only reference used in making an assessment of a childs development.

 Georgina Hamaimbo (Ministry of Education Zambia)

psychosocial needs are identified and catered for.

The story and people behind this

publication

Prescribed blanket responses do not take individual

A consultative workshop was held to find out how educators

Kelvin Ngoma (REPSSI)

difference into account, especially when these responses

felt that psychosocial support could best be integrated into

Mambo Chiluwe (REFA/Consultant)

are based on stereotyping and categorisation

their schools. The workshop explored relevant definitions of

All learners are unique. It is important that their individual

Learners resilience is promoted and sustained by

supportive family and community structures.

Getrude Mwape (University of Zambia)

psychosocial support and referred to existing school-based

The partners involved in the pre-testing of this guide were the

initiatives that enhance psychosocial support.

following educators, parents and learners from Matero Girls High

School, Libala High School, Chongwe Basic School, Nangongwe

School communities need to be strengthened to provide

a more caring, supportive and inclusive environment for

These are some of the people that were actively involved

Basic School and the Lusaka Provincial Education Office:

effective teaching and learning.

in developing these guidelines:

Dorothy Makumba (Guidance Teacher, Matero Girls

Writing: Linzi Rabinowitz , Ncazelo Ncube and

involves all relevant stakeholders playing a role towards

Berenice Meintjes

Simon Lwenje (Guidance Teacher, Matero Girls

strengthening the school as a centre of learning and

Editing: Michael Wessels

support

Project Liaison: Sebastian Chikuta from REPSSI

Bishop David Tsanda (Parent, Matero Girls High School)

Pretesting: Audrey C Mwanza

Violet Mukuka (Parent, Matero Girls High School)

partners during all the interventions that are designed

Series Editor: Jonathan Morgan from REPSSI

E Ngwisha (School Counsellor, Libala High School)

to improve their wellbeing. The exact nature of this

Design and Layout: Candice Turvey from Spiritlevel

E. Nyirenda (Peer Educators, Libala High School)

partnership will be determined by their age.

Illustrations: Helga Hoveka

Jennifer Kapena (Parent, Libala High School)

Effective mainstreaming of psychosocial support in schools

Learners need to be consulted and involved as primary

High School)
High School)

Monica Njobvu (Parent, Chongwe Basic School)

The participants involved in the consultative meeting held in

Precious C. M. Kasweshi (Teacher, Chongwe Basic School)

Lusaka were:

Lazarous Bwalya (Guidance Teacher, Chongwe

Ncazelo Ncube (REPSSI, South Africa)

David Green (REFA, Zimbabwe)

Felix M. Kalyongo (Parent, Chongwe Basic School)

4: The term inclusive education and training can be defined as the

Siphelile Kaseke (REPSSI, Zimbabwe)

Florister Mutoloka (Guidance Teacher, Nangongwe

acknowledgement that all children can learn and that they need support in order

Taban Edward (TPO, Uganda)

Sebastian M. Chikuta (REPSSI, Zambia)

Neroh H. Mwanapabu (Provincial Education Office

age, gender, ethnicity, language, class, disability , HIV or other infectious diseases,

Stephenson Nawa (Ministry of Education, Zambia)

have to be respected at all times.(Education White Paper. July 2000)

Betty Mzumara (Ministry of Education, Zambia)

to do so. This includes enabling educational structures and methodologies to

meet the needs of all learners. Differences between learners, whether due to

Basic School)

Basic School)
and SEO Guidance)

Who is this guide for?

is preferred to the term teacher. At times, the terms

organisations (NGOs), faith-based organisations (FBOs)

This guide was written for educators at schools and

educator and teacher are used interchangeably.

and community-based organisations (CBOs) that operate

in the broader community. It also aims to reach other

The term holistic development describes the ongoing

in the schools catchment area. Other key stakeholders are

members of the school community such as head teachers,

process of growth that starts from the moment children

government ministries such as those concerned with child

Ministries of Education (district and provincial), members

are conceived and continues until they reach adulthood.

affairs, community development and social welfare, health

of parent-teacher associations, governing bodies, school

It includes the intellectual, emotional, spiritual, social and

management teams, representative council for learners,

physical development of children and is concerned with

school counsellors, teachers unions and parents/caregivers

helping them reach their greatest potential (REPSSI. 2007.

who assume the responsibility of looking after children.

- in other words, all stakeholders interested in the

p 13)

This term is used interchangeably with the term parent

wellbeing of learners.
The guidelines can be adapted for different levels of

The term vulnerability can be explained as involuntary

situations or conditions that place a child at a higher risk of

and local government.

The term caregiver refers to the people (usually adults)

throughout this text.

The terms psychosocial wellbeing, support and care are
explained in more detail in section 2 of this guide.

mainstreaming PSS in schools. An educator, for example,

deprivation of their basic survival and developmental needs.

can use them to mainstream PSS into his classroom or

Vulnerability implies that the immediate support system

a governing body could use them in order to build a

for the child (families/caregivers) can no longer cope and

How to use this guide

wider network of support that includes parents, local

thus external support is required to meet the needs of the

These guidelines are designed to offer education

governmental bodies (welfare or health departments for

example) and non-governmental organisations.

Terms used in this guide

The term learner refers to all children attending school

child (MiET case study. 2008)

The term psychosocial intervention refers to any

stakeholders the sort of information that will enable

them to recognise the vital importance of mainstreaming

programme which aims to improve the psychosocial well-

PSS in schools as well as assist them in their process of

being of people. (REPSSI. 2007. p 9)

transforming their schools into centres of care and support.

The term school community refers not only to

Section 1 deals with the main messages of this guide as

irrespective of age. Throughout the guidelines the specific

the members of the school but to all of those people and

well as highlighting the need to mainstream PSS within the

needs of learners of different ages will be identified where

organisations that are providing a service to the school.

education sector. It presents the main features of schools

necessary. Please note that there are also children who are

They are also the parents/caregivers of the learners and

in which PSS has been effectively mainstreamed in both

out of school but whose learning needs still need to be

have a vested interest in what happens within the school.

school management and classroom practice.

taken into account.

(REPSSI. 2008. p 4)

The term educator refers to those adults who assume

Section 2 will clarify key concepts such as PSS wellbeing,

The term stakeholder refers to all members of

circles of support and resilience. It will also highlight the

the responsibility of educating learners at school. In South

the school community including management and staff,

effects of HIV and AIDS on all members of the school

Africa and other places, the term educator replaces and

school governing bodies, learners and non-governmental

community.

 Section 3 outlines current terminology used in the

education sector related to the mainstreaming of PSS.
Section 4 will outline a participatory approach that can be

activities can be used by any of the key stakeholders and

psychosocial support means making sure that this stream or

can be adapted to suit a particular purpose.

river of wellbeing flows widely, strongly and continuously in

The guidelines include a list and description of useful

and around the child.

used by stakeholders to achieve the goal of mainstreaming

resources. This also acknowledges the existing work in

PSS in schools.

the field done by other organisations. The aim is to avoid

In the context of the education sector as a whole, PSS

duplication and draw from different endeavours in order

translates into a sensitised school community that cares for all

to achieve a common goal.

its members in a concrete manner. PSS becomes a way of life.

Section 5 presents the key values and role-players that

lay the foundations for PSS in schools. A check-list of PSS
principles is included.

It is best to read the guide right through from beginning to

Traditionally, education emphasises cognitive and academic

Section 6 includes examples of psychosocial issues that

end in order to understand the approach clearly. Readers

objectives. Its overall aims are psychosocial, however, because

may present themselves in a school community and

can, however, also select sections based on their particular

it is ultimately the whole learner (mind, heart, body and soul)

provides some practical ways of dealing with these specific

areas of interest.

who is being nurtured. The aim of psychosocial interventions

issues.

is to address learners experiences and needs in a holistic

be followed in every situation. They offer a participatory

manner and to place these PSS interventions within the wider

resources for transforming schools into centres of care and

and flexible approach which will vary from one situation to

context of educational development. (OCarroll. 2009. p5)

support. Some of the tools include:

another.

Section 7 includes several examples of PSS tools and

These guidelines should not be seen as a blueprint to

Journey Towards Our Dream - a participatory approach

Educators and interested stakeholders are encouraged to

Psychosocial care and support mainstreaming means including

for building a vision for a PSS-mainstreamed school

discuss the guidelines in the school among themselves,

a focus on the emotional and social wellbeing of the child at all

community,

with learners and with other members of the school

levels of the school community:

community and decide whether or not they identify with

curriculum design and classroom activities

the principles and values expressed in them.

planning and budgeting

Hero Books - a PSS mainstreaming tool for the

classroom It also includes a list of useful resources and

capacity building and human resource development

contact details.

policies and procedures of the school

used to identify PSS gaps and strengths in a school

What mainstreaming psychosocial

support into schools is about

community. It also highlights the importance of an ongoing

By mainstreaming psychosocial support (PSS) we try to make

networking with government sectors and institutions

evaluation and monitoring process.

sure that children feel socially and emotionally supported

Section 8 will present self-assessment tools which can be

A series of practical questions/activities and case studies

in every part of life at home, in the classroom, on the

have also been included in each section to assist with

playground, in the street, on the way to school, at the clinic,

the process of translating the theory to practice. These

at the soup kitchen, at the kids club, etc. Mainstreaming

monitoring and evaluation

As the pyramid model on this page demonstrates, by

Multi-layered, integrated Psychosocial Support

mainstreaming PSS into schools, it is possible to offer PSS

There are many different forms of psychosocial support (PSS).

to all children who are attending school, and in this way it

These may be offered at different levels to support children,

becomes possible to reach greater numbers of children.

families and communities. The model below may be used to

consider the various levels at which psychosocial support can
be structured.

5. Specialised Mental Health Services:

Psychiatric, clinical psychological and other specialised
services for the few children with more severe responses

5.
SPECIALISED
mental
health services

4. Focused Support:
Additional non-specialised support for children who are

4. FOCUSED
S U P P O RT

not coping and who are showing signs of distress

3. Family and Community Support:

3. FA M I LY &
CO M M U N I T Y
S U P P O RT

Everyday care and support provided by caregivers, friends

and community members
2. Provision of Basic Services:
Shelter, food, health & education, into which PSS needs to
be mainstreamed, to reach many children and support ways

2 . P ROV I S I O N O F B A S I C S E RV I C E S

of coping
1. Advocacy:

1. A DVO C AC Y

Influencing policy and changes to the social conditions

that affect the wellbeing of millions of children

Diagram 1: Multi-layered, Integrated Psychosocial Support

The more one focuses on

the lower levels of the
pyramid (for example level
number two), the more impact
one has on more children.

What does a school that has

mainstreamed psychosocial support
look like?

Learners supporting one another

Helps families with applying for grants/bursaries

Learners attitudes have changed and they have been

Sets up school gardens and school feeding programmes

sensitised to the psychosocial needs of their fellow learners.

so that learners can learn to grow their own food as well

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to mainstreaming PSS

They do their best to support one another and build a

as to have access to nutritious meals

into ones school. It is best to start with your own strengths

nurturing, supportive school environment. They do not

and then gradually build on these until PSS becomes an

discriminate against children with special needs, but treat one

community so as to derive maximum benefits from them

integral part of the way everyone in the school community

another with respect and care.

for the benefit of the learner.

Communicates effectively with members of the school

Disseminates information on HIV and AIDS and other

thinks and functions. Here are some ideas of how a school

might look once PSS has been mainstreamed into all different

Involvement of caregivers and the school community

important matters such as child abuse, positive discipline,

levels of the school functioning:

Other members of the school community feel free to come

child safety, girl-child education etc.

to the aid of the school and they are fully involved in providing

Raises funds to assist learners who are in need

Educators knowledge and attitudes

care and support to learners. The caregivers of the learners

In a school where PSS has been mainstreamed, educators have

are consulted about their ideas and are involved in the school

A school that has mainstreamed PSS becomes a centre of care

been trained in PSS and use this knowledge in their interactions

functioning. Specific policies on psychosocial issues such as

and support as it takes special interest in learners needs and

with the learners. Within the school budget, resources are

bullying, HIV and AIDS will be in place to guide day-to-day

comes up with programmes e.g. school feeding that address

allocated to further PSS training and activities. A focal PSS

practice.

such needs. An effort is made to change the attitudes of all

members of the school community so that whatever is done

person may have been appointed to become a specialist in

PSS. A caring school takes care of educators so that they have

Specialised support

is done in the best interests of the learner. Such a school is a

support to avoid burn-out and their workload is reduced. The

A school that has mainstreamed PSS does the following:

child-friendly one in which learners feel cared for. The focus is

educators are motivated about their work. Provision of PSS

Identifies learners whose health and wellbeing are at

on the holistic needs of learners while building a caring school

is not left to one or two specialist teachers but each teacher

risk and makes sure that the learners get the care and

has the skills and knowledge to provide PSS. All educators

attention they need

treat the learners and their caregivers with respect and dignity.

Identifies children who are out of school or missing

It is useful to note that training in PSS can be given even to

school and links them to a source of help so that they can

community members with very lows level of education. In

attend school regularly

this way basic listening, empathy and referral skills are made

Refers children with specialised needs to NGOs, CBOs

accessible to others. This reduces the reliance on specialist

and government departments who are able to provide

support which is usually not available in most communities.

expert assistance or material assistance where needed

community.

Understanding psychosocial wellbeing

This section highlights the holistic needs of children, the

about promoting everyday consistent care and

psychosocial impact of HIV, AIDS and poverty on the school

support in the family, school and community.

community and ways of promoting resilience in children.

What is psychosocial well-being?

Psychosocial wellbeing is about the relationships between the

All children require protection and

child, its family, community and society (social). It is also

nurture that meets their nutritional

about how a child feels and thinks about him or herself and

needs and ensures their health,

about life (psycho). It is often linked to the African concept

affectionate relationships with

of ubuntu I am because we are, and we are because I

stable caregivers that support their

am. Such wellbeing includes many different aspects of the

developing psychological and social

childs life: physical, material, psychological, social, cultural and

capacities, and ongoing interactions

spiritual. This can be referred to as holistic development.

with encouraging adults that

The focus of psychosocial wellbeing is not just on the

promote their language and cognitive

individual, but on households, families and communities.

development. As they grow, children

What is psychosocial care

and support?

need friendships with same-age peers

and to be members of formal cultural
institutions, including educational, play,

Psychosocial care and support is about helping children,

social and/or religious groups.

families and communities to improve their psychosocial well-

Extract from Where the Heart is

being. It is about encouraging better relationships between

people, and building a stronger sense of self and community.
It is expressed through caring and respectful relationships that
communicate understanding, tolerance and acceptance. It is

Activity 1:
Develop your own working
definition of PSS

Circles of support
A wide range of supportive relationships are potentially
available to learners. These cover a spectrum of informal
and formal social interactions, from the care and support
offered by caregivers, family members, friends, neighbours,

In your organisation, present the definitions of

educators, religious mentors, health workers and community

psychosocial support described on page 8. In groups

members to the care and support offered by specialised

draw a picture of two young children who are learners

psychological and social services, including the health services.

from a school in your community. The first child you

One way to picture this continuum is to imagine that the

draw has many unmet psychosocial needs and the

learner is surrounded by different circles of support. Each of

second child you draw has good psychosocial wellbeing.

these circles offers opportunities to reinforce the wellbeing

The members of the group write words around the

of the learner. Learners are best cared for by committed

picture of each child to describe their situation. Discuss

and affectionate adults who occupy the innermost circle of

these drawings and come up with your own working

support. When the care-giving capacity of this circle is broken,

definition of what psychosocial support means in your

extended families need to fill the gap. When the circle of

school setting.

care provided by relatives is broken, community initiatives

Supportive environment provided

by government provision of services
and protection

Gaps in community
support filled by
NGOs and services

need to fill the gap. When the circle of care provided by

Gaps in
caregiving filled
by extended
family

Gaps in family
support filled by
communities

the community is broken, external agencies need to step

in (Richter. 2006. p18).The collective efforts of different
providers of PSS can strengthen each level of the learners

external
programmes

circle of support and help prevent these circles from

breaking down. In order to accomplish this, there may well be
times when the learner and his/her caregivers will require the

Diagram 2: The Circles of Support model

specialised care and support of professionals.

Source: Richter, L., Foster, G. & Sherr, L. (2006) Where the Heart is: Meeting the
psychosocial needs of young children in the context of HIV/AIDS.

The Circles of Support model to the right offers a good

representation of all the different people and organisations
involved in psychosocial care and support.

Activity 2:
Circles of support in your
school community

Circles of support in action

Mary, a child from Libala High School in Lusaka, lost both parents to AIDS-related diseases when she was in grade 9. After the

On a big sheet of paper, draw a set of circles similar

death of her mother who was then the only surviving parent, Mary became extremely withdrawn both at school and at home.

to the diagram on page 8. Thinking about your school

At school she stopped participating in discussions at the AIDS Action club meetings, and in class her performance dropped a lot.

community, write on the diagram the positive support

She had suddenly become the head of the family at 14 years old and being the eldest in the family, life became extremely hard

that is in place at each level. Then write down the gaps

for her as she assumed the role of the parent to her young siblings. When her parents were still alive, they never allowed the

that you have noticed in that community for each level

children to visit the other members of their families, nor did they visit their family members in the village.

of support.

One day, Marys friends took the initiative to talk to her and find out what was bothering her. They offered to help her with
her work in class since her performance was going down and she was no longer mixing freely. A member of the School-Based
Selection Committee from her locality mobilised caregivers to assist Mary and her brothers and sisters with food and other
house chores which enabled Mary to focus on her studies. The church where Marys parents used to go also got involved and
paid her school fees so she did not have to worry about fees any more.

10

Understanding resilience in children

Learners under stress

A learner might express his needs by behaving badly. This is

For many learners however, the ability to cope with day-to-

often an expression of the learners distress and a call for help.

day difficulties and challenges become unbearable. This can

Rather than needing to be punished, this behaviour needs to

lead to the development of mental health problems. This

be decoded and understood.

Activity 3:

means that a learner will be noticeably affected in some aspect

Resilience in learners

of his or her psychosocial wellbeing. Learners might start

It is important for educators to observe and notice any

showing some of the following symptoms:

negative changes in the learner. If these changes last for long

periods of time, the educator will need to encourage the

Think about a learner you know who overcame a lot

of difficult experiences and became a happy, well-

difficulties in forming relationships

caregiver to seek professional help from either a social worker,

integrated person. What do you think helped that

loss of hope

psychologist or psychiatrist. It is helpful for the educator and

learner to grow strong despite the difficulties she or he

worrying, fear of loss of family, food

caregiver to remember that the problem is separate in some

faced in life?

low self esteem

way from the child. This helps the child to believe that the

sadness, guilt, anger, blaming and hurting others

problem can be fixed.

withdrawal, hyperactivity, aggressiveness

It is expected that learners infected with and/or affected by

reckless or irresponsible behaviour, misuse of alcohol

HIV and Aids, poverty and conflict will experience stress.

developmental problems in young children such as feeding

Some learners cope quite well under stress whereas others

and sleeping problems; learning problems in older children

are overwhelmed by it. It is helpful to identify which factors

and difficulties during adolescence. (from Robertson 2008:

in the home, school or community affect the wellbeing of a

presentation.)

learner. These factors can be termed risk factors and they

may include anything from experiencing hunger to the loss of
a parent.

11

Sources of resilience
A learners ability to cope seems to have much to do with
their reservoir of resilience. Researchers have defined

Resilience in difficult circumstances

resilience as the human capacity to face, overcome and be

strengthened by or even transformed by the adversities of life

This is the story of Rose - a girl living in Chongwe, Zambia. Rose lost her mother when she was 9 years old. Her father

and the ability to bounce back after stressful and potentially

abandoned her after remarrying - a year after her mothers death. Her older grandmother took the responsibility of bringing

traumatising events (Mallman. 2002: p 2) The ability to cope

her up together with 4 other orphaned children. Despite being very poor and living only in a one-roomed house, Roses

with adversity is related to the learners capacity to:

grandmother struggled to ensure that Rose and the other children she took responsibility for went to school. When times were

understand a painful event (for example, the death

hard, her grandmother used to ask Rose to assist in selling vegetables on the side of the street in order to raise some income for
the house. Sometimes for several days they hardly had any food. However with support from the local church, and a group of

of a parent),
believe that they can cope with a crisis because they
know that they have some control over what happens

caregivers, they were once in a while given a bag of mealie meal and other foodstuffs.

give deeper meaning to the event

At school Rose got a lot of support from her friends and teachers who encouraged her to study hard. After completing grade
12 Rose volunteered to teach at a community school. After teaching for a year, Rose got a place at a secretarial college where

The development of these three capabilities needs to be

she did her secretarial course. On completion of her course, one member of the community helped Rose to find a job in a

encouraged at every opportunity. Learners are influenced

Government Ministry where she currently works.

as much by their inner resources as by external sources of

support. There are some basic factors which promote the

Her teachers reflected on what made Rose succeed:

development of resilience in children. Most of these have

Rose was open about her situation

to do with the quality and consistency of the caregiving that

She was focused

the learner receives. It is important to create loving, trusting

She accepted her situation

and respectful relationships with learners. They should be

She got a lot of support from the community

encouraged to share and talk about their feelings. They must

She had a caring grandmother who believed in her education

be allowed to make mistakes and learn from them. They

should be seen as complex and multi-faceted individuals
rather than in terms of what they can and cannot do. Learners
benefit from growing up in a safe and nurturing space. They
thrive on routine and a sense of belonging.

12

The strength of a learners inner resources and access to

creativity and curiosity - resilient children are open and

in those headed by older people. The heads of households

resilience manifests itself in a number of ways. These include:

eager to learn. They are able to use their imaginations and

may struggle to provide for the children in their care or to

The ability to experience and express a wide range

solve problems

enforce school attendance.

of emotions

The ability to recall many of the significant feelings,

self confidence - resilient children have a sense of humour

and like themselves (Mallman. 2002: p3- 5)

Large numbers of orphaned and vulnerable

children(OVC): The experience of vulnerability is related
to the loss of home, separation from siblings and friends,

thoughts, and experiences in their lives. This gives them

The psychosocial impact of HIV and

AIDS, poverty and conflict on the school
community

increased workload, social isolation, the use of money

connected to other people in a context of mutual support

The AIDS pandemic exacts an emotional toll on all members

increased vulnerability to HIV infection, changes in health

and care.

of the education sector, including principals, departmental

and nutritional levels and the trauma that follows the illness

officials, educators, parents and learners. Some will have lost

or death of a caregiver (Richter. 2006. p12)

the capacity to emotionally recall and hold onto positive

memories.
A sense of belonging. This includes the feeling of being

The capacity to take an interest in others.

family members, while others might themselves be living with

for basic necessities instead of school fees, an increased

drop-out rate as learners seek ways of earning an income,

Multiple roles: The educator fills various roles apart from

The circles of support surrounding the learner, also known as

HIV and AIDS and may have to deal with the shame and

his occupation. An educator who is infected goes through

external resources, need to be available in a consistent and

stigma associated with the disease. There will also be others

similar emotions and socio-economic hardships as other

loving way. Important aspects of external and internal support

who are at risk of HIV infection. The impact of HIV and AIDS

people in society. The educator who is infected or whose

include:

on the education sector can be summarised as:

immediate family is infected is likely to engage in erratic

a close and secure relationship with a caregiver

Stigma and discrimination: The experience of isolation

teaching activities.
Invisible burden of care: Educators have to face the

a close relationship with other family members and

can lead to high levels of stress, depression and even

suicidal thoughts amongst members of the school

consequences of HIV and AIDS. This is often a role that is

community.

unnoticed. Educators are frequently not adequately trained

adults in their lives such as an educator

access to food, shelter, clothing, education and medical

services

Absenteeism of learners and educators: Some learners

financial stability

and educators might have to look after a sick person.

close links to a cultural/religious community

Some learners might be infected themselves. Their

empathy and concern for others

deteriorating health is likely to affect their school

a belief system that gives the learner an idea of right

or wrong and a sense of faith or affiliation to a set of values
or to a religion

attendance and performance.

Child-headed households: School attendance is likely
to a be a challenge in child-headed households as well as

13

for this role.

There are other obstacles within the education sector apart

Although these circumstances are extremely demanding,

from the ones created by HIV and AIDS. These include:

there are many instances where educators are doing their best

Quality and access: Quality and access need to go hand

to meet learners needs. Here is an example from KwaZulu-

in hand. In some schools there are too many learners in

Natal, South Africa.

a class and effective learning cannot take place because

educators are unable to give individual attention to
learners.
Inadequate teacher education and resources: Lack of
properly trained staff, lack of teaching and learning
materials as well as poor infrastructure can all compromise

A story from KwaZulu-Natal

quality in education.
Low morale: Overburdened educators have limited time

At a small school in northern KwaZulu-Natal, the staff and governing body raised funds to build a home for children in difficult

and resources to support learners. This leads to low

circumstances, including those affected by HIV and AIDS. To bolster food supplies for children and their families, the school

morale.

has a vegetable garden, a fish pond and hens which provide eggs as well as food for the fish. Learners maintain the vegetable

Poverty: Many potential learners are unable to attend

school due to lack of clothes, food and school fees.
Community apathy: In many instances, communities face

garden and look after the chickens. These activities fit into the life skills curriculum. Educators have helped organise a government
feeding scheme. They also do clinic referrals where necessary. The school raises funds to extend the school feeding to include
weekends and holidays. Staff members use parent/teacher meetings to inform parents and caregivers about the childrens home

low levels of infrastructure e.g. water and sanitation, as

and get them involved. They also inform caregivers how to access social assistance grants from community and governmental

well as low levels of literacy. Poverty reduces the ability

organisations.

of community members to provide for themselves and

their own families. This brings about an atmosphere of
despondency in communities and leads to negative coping

It should be emphasised that schools have always tried to support vulnerable learners, even before the advent of PSS as

mechanisms such as excessive alcohol consumption. In

we know it. We can learn from the creative things that they have done to provide caring environments for learners.

addition communities also suffer emotionally from the

many losses they experience through the death and illness
of other people in the community.

14

Understanding psychosocial care and support

within the context of the education sector
3

Why caring school communities

are vital for learners
In some communities, most children are vulnerable. Schools
are excellent places to offer prevention, care and support to
children. Children spend a great deal of their time at school
and educators have access to them five days a week. Schools
can be seen as nodes (central points) for accessing extra
resources and services. In some instances they are the only
infrastructure in a community. (Rudolph. 2008) People at the
school are also a resource in themselves. The school staff,
school management team, governing bodies, people providing
extra support services, learners groups and school-based
youth groups all have important functions.

Understanding current terminology within the education

sector associated with the mainstreaming of PSS
As a person or organisation interested in mainstreaming
psychosocial care and support (PSS), it is helpful to develop
a common understanding of the terms used in the field with
regard to psychosocial care and support. You might wish to
discuss, debate, select and adapt the working definitions and
descriptions on pages 16-18.

15

Terms currently used in the educational sector associated with

the current needs/goals for the school, identifying steps

for strong community participation and the importance of

the process of mainstreaming PSS in schools include:

towards meeting these goals and implementing them through

buy-in from education ministries. This model therefore relies

building a caring school community

a continuous cycle of action and reflection. This approach also

primarily on policy development, advocacy of such policies

schools as centres of care and support

highlights the value of individuals who champion the rights of

and the development of guidelines to assist in the process

child-friendly schools

learners and have a positive influence on the life of a school

of implementation - from the education ministry down to

community. A caring school community can start with a single

the educational institution, and, ultimately, to the learners,

It is valuable to know about these different terms and

person who does something to improve the lives of learners

(particularly the orphaned or vulnerable) and their families

approaches in order to reduce confusion. Understanding

or educators.

(MiET. 2008. p 6). The key principles of this model are:

them properly can help expand ones vision of the school

schools as a hub of service delivery for learners

is the total commitment to putting childrens needs and

Schools as Centres of Care and

Support (SCCS)

interests first through finding practical ways of strengthening

The SADC secretariat, in partnership with Media in

school communities to provide a more caring, supportive

Education Trust (MiET) Africa, UNESCO and UNICEF, have

and inclusive environment for effective teaching and

developed an approach to addressing the barriers to teaching

Schools are clustered around education centres, also

learning.(MiET. 2007) A brief summary of the concepts are

and learning associated with health and poverty related

known as full service schools or nodal schools, in order to

presented below. For further information, please see the list of

challenges (MiET. 2008. p3). Its vision is that all education

promote sharing of resources and mutual support. A widely

useful resources at the end of Section 7.

institutions of the 14 member states will be transformed

representative school support team is set up to deliver

into inclusive centres of learning, care and support in which

services to the school community.

community. The common thread running through the terms

Building a caring school

community5

community participation and multi sectoral collaboration

necessary to address the diverse challenges faced by learners
government ownership necessary for sustainability

every learner, especially the most vulnerable, can learn

and will contribute towards the reduction of the barriers

MiET has developed a SCCS Tool Kit so as to guide members

The key features of this approach relate to the notion of

preventing the achievement of the Education For All target

of school communities through the process of setting

forming working partnerships between key educational

and Millennium Development Goals (ibid). Central to this

themselves up as centres of care and support. The tool kit

stakeholders and creating a shared vision among them through

approach is the notion of Schools as Centres of Care and

consists of a handbook with guidelines on how a school can

a participatory approach. This should be based on assessing

Support (SCCS). Research into this model highlights the need

establish itself as a centre of care and support.

5: The concept of building a caring school community has been researched extensively by the Childrens Institute, University of Cape Town in collaboration with the South African Democratic Teachers Union and CASNET (Caring Schools Network)
6: SADC refers to the Southern African Development Community
7: The Millennium Project was commissioned 2002 by the United Nations Secretary General to develop a concrete action plan for the world to achieve the Millennium goals to reverse the grinding poverty, hunger and disease affecting billions of people.

16

It covers topics such as:

identification of diseases and health issues,

What people say about schools that have positioned themselves as Centres of Care and Support

asking for assistance,

signs and symptoms of common health problems and

issues,

the outreach work of the institution-based support team,

A parent wrote a letter to thank our school because we bought a uniform

conducting parent meetings,

for a child who was needy and did not have much interest in going to school

raising funds for the work of the support team,

but now is always willing to go to school.

available resources.

Teacher

I get to take vegetables home from the school vegetable garden and I also get
clothing and other materials from the school support team. The municipality also
gave me womens toiletries last year and this is something I have not had before.
Learner

Our learners now get nutritious vegetables from the vegetable gardens we started
in the school. They can now concentrate better and this makes our teachers
primary task easier they dont have to worry about a childs basic needs.
Principal

17

Child-friendly Schools (CFS)

and implementation of the curriculum, a safe and

This framework was developed by UNICEF so that the

healthy environment and a sound relationship with all

Learn more about these tools!

United Nations Convention on the rights of the Child could

stakeholders.

Contact your Regional REPSSI Coordinator to ask

be implemented in school management and classroom

3. a safe and secure school protects and cares for the

about specialised PSS training in your area. You can also

practice. The convention has been adopted by the South

childrens physical wellbeing. It creates safe spaces in which

download training materials and manuals on these tools at

African Department of Education. It comprises six critical

girls and boys can learn and puts in place consistent and

www.repssi.org.

and interrelated elements for a school to be considered child

effective mechanisms to record, report and address issues

friendly.

related to dangerous objects, drugs, alcohol, bullying,

discrimination, theft and physical and sexual violence.

1. a rights-based school demonstrates, promotes and helps

4. a health seeking/promoting school provides a healthy

monitor the rights and wellbeing of all children regardless

environment for boys and girls emotional, psychological

of race, sex, socio-economic status, national or ethnic

and physical wellbeing, including school-based health

origin, physical or health status, sexual orientation,

and nutrition programmes, life-skills and safe and gender

intellectual capacity, emotional level or linguistic

appropriate/sensitive sanitation and water facilities.

background.
2. an effective school is an academically sound school that
offers quality education that meets the childrens life needs
and provides the knowledge and skills they require to

5. a gender sensitive school promotes gender sensitivity,

equality8 and equity 9 It aims to realise the equal right to
education for all girls and boys.
6. a partnership building school establishes relationships

make a living. It is well resourced and requires a range of

with communities and educators. It also builds

enabling conditions. These include skilled, motivated and

partnerships that support the achievement of the schools

well-trained staff supported by good conditions of service,

goals. School/community linkages and partnerships are the

strong leadership and management capability, access

key-building block to realising the child-friendly school

to ongoing professional development, understanding

goals. (adapted from UNICEF. 2008)

8: Equality means that people should be treated in the same way.

9: However, treating people the same does not accommodate significant differences which may affect the outcomes of equal treatment. Equity recognises difference and
accommodates it in order to prevent the continuation of unequal practice. It aims to ensure fairness in both process and outcome.

18

Practical steps for mainstreaming psychosocial

support in schools
4

Participatory framework for building

caring school communities

abuse, bullying and teenage pregnancy. Here is an activity that

might help your colleagues understand psychosocial care and

Activity 4:

Designing a programme to mainstream PSS into a school

support on a more practical level.

Psychosocial issues in our school

community

community can be an exciting consultative process. Such

programmes tend to be most effective when different
members of the school community are involved the school

Think about your learners and school community. What

management, educators, learners and other members of the

types of family and personal issues do you find interferes

school community.

with their learning? Consult the learners in your school

about the family and personal issues they find interferes
with their learning. You can use the ideas in the Hero

Step One: Establish a common understanding of PSS

mainstreaming

Book manual (see page 41), or ask learners to each

As your school or educational support programme considers

anonymously to the class to read together.

write ideas on pieces of paper which they submit

embarking on the journey of mainstreaming PSS it is helpful

to start by developing a common understanding of PSS. This
means raising the awareness of the school management and
educators about the concept of psychosocial wellbeing. It is
best to present this concept in practical ways that are relevant
to your school community, rather than using fancy theories.
It means opening discussions about the types of psychosocial
issues affecting your school. The range of psychosocial issues
affecting learners might cover a range of issues such as child

19

Step Two: Identification of spearheading group

Here are some recommended qualities of a helpful PSS

Identify a core group of educators, learners and other

champion10 :

Activity 5:

community members (including community-based

Passionate about helping learners and caregivers

organisations, non-governmental organisations, and churches,

Good listening and communication skills

Selecting a PSS champion in your

organisation

etc.) who are particularly interested in spearheading the

A leader who can motivate others to get involved

process of mainstreaming PSS.

Strong and courageous

Together with others in your school community, take

Understands how to work ethically

time out to explore the different interests that people in

It may be helpful to select one or two people in your

Good at starting a task and seeing it through to the end

your organisation have. You may simply ask each person

organisation who are particularly interested and motivated

Able to accept feedback from others

to respond to these questions:

to learn more about PSS. Such a person should be trusted by

Good at making decisions, problem solving, prioritising

What aspects of your work do you really enjoy, and

other colleagues, as he or she may become a resource person

for the organisation. He or she may eventually train and

A person who works from the heart

What special interests do you have that you would

mentor others in their PSS focus.

Consistent in what they say and do

love to explore in future in terms of your role in

A person who perseveres to get things done.

the school?

and planning

A person who is trusted by other people and children

Requesting PSS training

Contact your Regional REPSSI Coordinator to ask about
specialised PSS training in your area. You can get the
contact details of your Coordinator from www.repssi.org.

10: List adapted from the Soul City Guide Schools as Nodes of Care and Support. See www.soulcity.org.za

20

which inspire you in your work?

Step Three: Assess your school community

Step Five: Develop your PSS Vision

Reflect on your school and the extent to which you have

Work with all stakeholders in the school (including the

Activity 6:

incorporated PSS in activities/policies. You can use the quick

learners) and the community to develop a vision and mission

assessment guide in the next section to assist with this

on PSS. Decide and agree on where in your school you want

Developing you PSS vision

for the future

process. But remember to focus on what you are already

to start PSS activities. For example you could start with training

doing well to support the emotional and social wellbeing of

of educators, or you could start a peer support programme.

Together with others in your organisation, write an

children, not just the gaps. You can refer to Section 6 for a

Make use of the energy of those who are most enthusiastic.

imaginary newspaper article reporting on the PSS

more detailed PSS assessment of your school community.

developments that have happened in your organisation,

Step Six: Roles and Responsibilities

dated 5 years from now. Be creative and make up a

Step Four: Developing a shared goal and commitment

by all stakeholders

Assess capacity-building needs as stakeholders will

name for your newspaper and the journalists writing

need training in PSS. Formulate and agree on roles and

the articles. Draw pictures as the photographs in

This step is about seeking consensus from stakeholders

responsibilities for each category of stakeholders. Link with

your article.

who include teachers, communities, learners and other

other organisations which may be able to offer training or

organisations. Winning the support of your stakeholders is

support to your school.

very important because if they reject PSS mainstreaming, the

whole exercise will be in vain. Use participatory methods to
consult the school management, educators, learners, CBOs
and NGOs, churches and relevant government service
providers to get ideas on how you can improve the care you
provide for children in your school community.
The Journey to Our Dreams tool offers a step-by-step vision
building process. It could be included at this stage to help
stakeholders identify their ideal school and at the same time
translating this vision into concrete goals and outcomes which
will be implemented over a specific time frame. Refer to
section 7 for more detailed information about the Journey to
our Dreams tool.

21

Step Seven: Formulating an action plan and budget for

PSS mainstreaming

Deliverables/
outcomes

Objectives

You are now ready to integrate several of the steps already

taken. Step seven entails that you develop a plan(s) for
mainstreaming PSS. Use the template on this page to assist
you in developing your plan.

Step Eight: Implement the Plan

At this stage you should have developed your plan. To assist
you in implementing your plan, REPSSI has manuals, tools,
DVD/CDs, videos and other materials on different PSS
approaches. REPSSI has also trained a number of people as
trainers in different approaches. These PSS approaches include
memory work, narrative therapy, solution focused approaches,
group approaches, play therapy, defence skills for girls, etc. As
you begin to implement your plan, you probably will need to
do the following:
Contact REPSSI or other people trained in PSS for

technical support.

Contact/visit REPSSI offices and the website for PSS

materials

Step Nine: Monitoring and Evaluation

Putting in place PSS mainstreaming monitoring systems is
valuable as it reflects a commitment to learning and quality
programming. You may wish to make use of some of the tools
provided in this guide for assessing your progress.

22

Activity

Timeline/
period

Responsible person/
institution

Guiding principles for mainstreaming

psychosocial support into schools
5

Familiarity with the basic principles of PSS will enable you to

apply them to a range of different psychosocial issues. These
principles will become the basis for deciding how to deal with
certain psychosocial situations.

Guiding principles of psychosocial support

These principles will help guide the process of deepening PSS
in your school community.
PSS begins at home: Educators need to be aware of the
importance of having loving, kind and caring relationships
with their own children. These can then be extended
to the learners in the classroom. Such ideas may also be
shared with the parents of learners in the school. PSS at
home and in the classroom involves the promotion of
stability and routine in the learners life, especially during
difficult times. It also involves creating an emotionally
safe space for reflection on past experiences, as a way of
learning and growing from these experiences. It includes
focusing on positive achievements to build a sense of
self. Learners need to be given enough time to play and
participate in sport, as this contributes to a learners social,
emotional and cognitive development.

23

 Learners rights and responsibilities: There is need to

stakeholders about what type of support would be

Capacity building: For PSS to become a way of life in the

ensure that all stakeholders have a clear understanding

appropriate and helpful. It also involves asking them how

school community there is a need to build capacity among

of childrens rights and responsibilities. This is especially

they could be involved. All these people need to be

the various players and this should be an ongoing process

in relation to childrens right to be heard (article 12

informed about how a caring school community works;

so that new members are oriented towards providing as

of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of

i.e. elements of a caring school community need to be

well as receiving PSS. There is thus a need for establishing

the Child (UNCRC). The concern of some educators

discussed, agreed upon and practised. As stated by

an in-built mechanism in the school system for achieving

and community members that this principle promotes

Mutunza Primary School, it is important that a positive

this objective. In Zambia, the Ministry of Education piloted

indiscipline in children needs to be sensitively and

educational partnership between school and community

a training programme in PSS which included educators

adequately addressed. Attention also needs to be paid to

is developed-based upon mutual respect and the belief

and community members but unfortunately left out

article 19 of the CRC which is concerned with eliminating

that community participation is a shared responsibility that

the learners themselves. Separate training could be

violence against children.

will enhance educational opportunities for pupils.(REPSSI.

provided for learners in accordance with their needs and

2007) Ideally, the process should be owned, driven and

evolving capacities. Topics in psychosocial life skills such as

sustained by the school community.

relationship-building, negotiation, problem identification,

A clearly defined vision for the school community: It is

vital that one of the goals of the school is to become a
centre of care and support. This includes promoting the
wellbeing of all the key role players.
Respectful Attitudes: This implies promoting respectful

Government leadership and support: The government

is a key partner in that it is the custodian of national
policy. For the mainstreaming of PSS to be a sustainable

problem-solving, decision-making and building resilience

would be very useful for learners.
Reflection and ongoing evaluation: This is essential. It

ways of interacting with learners, caregivers, families and

and continued intervention, it has to be adopted and

should include the participation of all stakeholders and it

communities. Building a sense of dignity is important in

supported by government policy. Mainstreaming PSS

needs to:

developing a caring culture in the school community. It also

should take place in all government schools and their

draw on existing structures and initiatives

means that existing cultural, social and spiritual ways of

support is paramount to the success of the programme.

assess whether PSS plans are working

coping need to be drawn on and enhanced.

(MiET. 2008)

identify its positive effects and barriers

Ownership and collective responsibility: Each role player

Inter-sectoral collaboration: Effectively addressing the

determine what is not working and find ways to

needs to have a sense of ownership of the PSS process.

needs of learners in a holistic manner is best achieved by

correct this

This can be attained by working out each stakeholders

engaging a diversity of skills and resources. If the needs of

plan for the future

role clearly with their participation.

orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), for example, are to

Participation of all stakeholders in the school community:

be addressed in a comprehensive and meaningful manner,

This involves consulting and speaking to learners,

it is imperative that key stakeholders and service providers

caregivers/families, educators and other relevant

are engaged at all appropriate levels. (MiET. 2008)

24

Creating a caring and stable environment

for learners affected by adversity

with them within a structured and normal routine.

Create fun special rituals for doing things in school. For

Supportive relationships
We know that one of the most important ways of helping a

Schools are increasingly being seen as one of the most

example, make up songs, rhymes and patterns for doing

child to deal with difficulties and changes in their lives is to be

important resources for children affected by different kinds

things like greeting one another in the morning, tidying the

with people whom they know and trust. Children who have

of difficult situations. This is because they provide consistency,

classroom, walking between classrooms or helping in the

even one caring and supportive relationship with another

school garden.

adult or child tend to cope well in life and may even go on to

stability and give a structure to everyday life. Most importantly,

they offer social support through friendship and caring adults.

Allow children to find their own safety objects or

be strengthened by what has happened to them.

In the context of conflict, poverty, natural disasters and illness,

consistent patterns. For example the child may have a

schools become even more important as sites of psychosocial

favourite book or toy. Allow the child to bring this to

with other children, with a specific educator or with family

care and support. Here are some ideas on how to make this

school. Or the child may have a favourite sitting place or a

members whom they trust. Receiving some kind words

practical.

particular way of doing things in class. These objects and

from someone known and trusted by the child can be as

patterns of behaviour can be very comforting for the child.

powerful as specialised counselling from a professional.

Consistency

Try to keep good friends together as this consistency and

So try to build on the good relationships that a child has

Ask the child whom she or he trusts in the family and try

One thing that helps children cope with difficult situations is

social support is very important to children who are going

to build on the relationship with this person. If the child

consistency. Children feel safer when things stay the same. Of

through tough times. For example, if a child has just lost a

has to be moved or placed with another family member,

course this can be a challenge when a community or family is

parent, try to make sure that when the child moves to the

try to encourage the social workers or people responsible

affected by things like illness and conflict, but here are some

next grade, that you keep him or her with good friends.

to ensure that the child goes to someone whom they

ideas on how to make schools consistent in a way that makes

Try to downplay any drama or hype associated with

know, like and trust in the family or neighbourhood.

children feel secure:

events in the community or school. For example, teachers

Try to keep regular routines and schedules in school, even

should try to stay calm and minimise any sensationalising

have been through difficulties. For example, at Humuliza

when times are difficult. For example, have regular

of events. Childrens responses depend very much on

in Tanzania, the child- and youth-led organisations VSI and

rhythms for each day the starting time, breaks, closing

how they see the adults around them responding. If adults

Rafiko Mdogo make special visits to the children who have

times etc. Some people think when times are difficult we

behave in a calm and organised way, children will interpret

lost someone (Madoerin. 2008). They say that very often

should give children special treatment like longer breaks

the event as something manageable and not as frightening.

children are neglected in bereavement rituals and so they

Encourage children to show special care for those who

or afternoons off. However, research shows that children

encourage children to offer condolences to one another.

cope better when things stay as normal as possible. Bear

Children who have been through difficult times often say

in mind, though, that childrens concentration is affected

that they want to be treated as normal. So try to balance a

by what is going on around them, so deal kindly and gently

caring approach with also treating children as normal.

25

Time to talk

Let children ask questions about what happened, and try

Observation, referral and networking skills - identifying

Children who have been through difficult situations such as

to give them honest answers without adding any upsetting

a learner in distress and knowing what you can do to

the loss of a parent or sibling, abuse, domestic violence, and

detail. You can even say to a child Many children who

support him/her; knowledge of community services

natural disasters like floods may find it helpful to talk about

have been through something like that have a lot of

what has happened to them. They should never be forced or

questions about what happened. If you have any questions

care for learners lives; seeing the whole child; finding ways

pressurised to talk about what happened, but where possible,

that you would like to ask me, you are most welcome.

of keeping children in school; helping children cope with

Creating a safe and supportive environment - respect and

loss and change; creating a caring culture within the school

safe spaces should be made where children can talk about

further ideas:

The educator as the primary tool in

the classroom

Try to make time alone with children and do something

It is important to remember that even though there is a

and confused feelings; communicate understanding;

that they enjoy with them it could be coaching a child

wide range of effective and practical tools and programmes

name, acknowledge and normalise feelings; and, most

with some sport, spending time doing art, asking a child to

to use in classrooms, educators themselves remain the most

importantly, create a safe and trusting relationship

help you carry something or tidy the classroom. Use these

important tool for mainstreaming PSS. Educators create the

opportunities to ask the child how he or she is doing in life.

mood and culture of a class. This is critical in influencing the

learner make choices and express their feelings, wishes,

kind of learning that takes place in the classroom. The degree

wants, needs, likes, dislikes etc.

their experiences with people that they trust. Here are some

Remember not to push the child to talk rather try to

Basic counselling skills - ensure confidentiality; listen

non-judgementally; empathise; listen to fearful, angry

Building self esteem - build inner strength by helping the

Group skills - facilitation of discussion; small group work,

create a safe environment where the child is able to talk if

of respect and empathy shown to learners will determine the

he or she would find this helpful.

degree to which they participate in the different processes and

encouraging peer support; identifying with one another;

/or activities that occur in the learning environment. In order

creating connectedness through shared experiences

You can tell the child that you are always available if she/he
wants to talk to you.
If the child does talk about something meaningful, try to
stay calm and quiet. You may listen quietly and make some

for educators to effectively address psychosocial issues they

need to be skilled in the following areas:
Holistic development - understanding how learners

comments like It sounds like that was a very difficult time

develop can help educators promote a better and more

for you. Then try to focus on what the child has done

sensitive attitude towards children because it contributes

well to cope with what has happened, for example saying

to an appreciation of their needs. Learners living with

I wonder how you were strong enough to cope with that

HIV , for example, need to be seen first and foremost as

situation. What did you do to help yourself through that

children. They should not be defined primarily in terms of

time? Thank the child for opening up and encourage him

their illness but by the experiences that are normal at their

or her to talk some more when he or she wants to.

stage of development.

26

Learners as active participants

The other key resources that are available in schools are the

Encouraging learners to actively support one another

learners themselves. When one takes the time to listen and

An Action Research Case Study on a Hero Booking Sharing Session at Eikendal

Primary School, South Africa, August 2008

discuss their problems, learners will often find creative and

helpful solutions that are appropriate to their situations. Tools
such as hero books (see Section 7) provide structured ways of

Action research means we can observe what we do while we

hands shot up. The first child to share was Mary. She told us

drawing on the resources and innovative strategies of children

do it, think about this, and change how we might do things.

that she is 13, that she lives with her mother, that her father

and youth. The learners themselves are also vital in providing

This case study shows how we observed our own practice,

had died, and that her sister whom she loves so so much

a supportive and caring environment for other children. One

got feedback from the participants, and changed the way we

is about to leave home to study at university. She also said

can harness and encourage their empathy and support for one

now do hero books. The grade 7 learners were lucky to have

that her own goal is to become a teacher. As she told the bit

another in order to help address different psychosocial issues.

Druscilla Van Niekerk as their teacher. She already had some

about her sister leaving the home, her eyes filled with tears.

The following example shows how the facilitators of a Hero

experience with hero booking from the previous year.

Druscilla asked Mary if she would like a hug. Mary gave a big
nod and walked over to Druscilla who comforted her.

Book exercise managed to draw on the support of learners

for one another.

When we walked into Druscillas English language class, to

observe how the process was going, she told us that the

I noticed that some other children were also tearful. The

class had gotten as far as activity 8 with their hero books,

class clapped and the next child prepared to share. At this

and that this lesson had been set aside for sharing rather

point I interrupted the action and asked if we could try

than producing new material. She also told me that in the

something new. I reminded the class that it was completely

South African Educational National learning outcomes for

voluntary to share, but that while each child was sharing,

language, there is an assessment standard relating to orals,

could all the other children take note of what touched and

and that this lesson would help her meet these learning

moved them the most, and that they must be prepared

outcomes. Druscilla made it clear to the learners that sharing

to give this feedback to the person who shared. Druscilla

was voluntary and that learners could share only as much

rephrased this in a better way and asked them to write down

as they wanted, and that they could also change or withhold

what they felt (in their hearts) and what they thought (in

identifying information as they shared.

their minds) as the person shared. I added that it was OK

to say what the story reminded them of in their own lives.

She then addressed the class, Now who would like to share,

I added that the children who shared were very brave and

lets focus on activity 3, Who I am and my goal? Several

that I could see that their stories were also causing others to
continued on page 28

27

continued from page 27

around and talk to anyone you want to, if you want you can

about sharing and support. Here are the key points for these

tell them what you are thinking and feeling. Or you can give

reflecting sessions once again:

them some words (or hugs of support with their permission).

1) Children are invited (but not forced or told) to share

You neednt only talk to those who have shared. The listeners

any part of their hero book or what they wrote in the

have strong feelings. But if we just clap, the person who

have also been doing a fantastic job. This was really fantastic

most recent activity for one minute. Try give all children

shares might be left feeling like they dont know what others

to observe. I thought the boys would be more restrained in

who want to share a chance to do so.

felt and thought about their story and this might leave them

their support and perhaps punch each other on the shoulder

2) All listeners (the rest of the group) listen to the sharer.

feeling uneasy. Maybe you think you are saying nothing if you

and say, Cowboys dont cry kind of thing. Not at all. Boys

3) As the listeners listen, they must all write down (not in

keep quiet, but to the other person they might think your

as much as girls were hugging each other, smiling gently into

their own hero books but on a spare piece of paper)

silence is saying that you dont care.

each others faces, the mood was subdued and respectful,

key words or notes summarizing what they felt in their

many eyes wet. We then went into a final round of sharing

heart, what they thought in their minds and what they

So we began again. The ground rules being:

leaving 10 minutes for the sharers to have a chance to say

were reminded of in their own lives as they listened to

1) All listen to the sharer who shares something from their

what it was like to share and to get feedback, and for the

the sharer

listeners to say what the experience was like for them. One

hero book for a minute.

4) Some 2-4 children are then asked to volunteer to use their

notes to give one minute feedback to the sharer.

2) All write down on a spare piece of paper what you think

boy said, I have been with Peter since we started school

together 5 years ago, I never knew he had a sister who died. I

5) Children are asked to walk around and give each other

3) Two people volunteer to give one minute of short

only learned this today through his hero book. Another boy

feedback and support one-on-one or in small groups.

feedback to the sharer, telling them what you thought

said, Bongani is my best friend but I never knew he loves

and felt while or after they shared.

animals and wants to be a vet, I liked his story so much, I am

chance (one minute each) to say what it was like to get

proud to be his friend., and as he said this he put his arm

feedback and which parts of the feedback they liked or

This worked really well but after some time I noticed that it

over Bongani. Then Druscilla asked the group to think about

didnt like and why.

was still only the most confident children who were giving

what they liked, didnt like and what they had learned about

feedback and sharing. So I said Ok, I can see there are lots

themselves and each other in todays activity. This went really

especially those children who have not said anything thus

of you who are really listening fantastically well, but you still

well, with lots of the children volunteering to share, even the

far, to say what they liked about the session, what they

have not shared what you are thinking and feeling. We want

quiet ones. Perhaps you will find this case study useful when

didnt like, what they learned about themselves, what they

to give you all a chance to do this, so everyone please stand

you do hero booking in a group. Remember, hero booking is

learned about others, and how they might do something

up, pretend you are at a party and socialising. Just move

not just about getting through the activities. Its mostly

differently in and after the next activity.

and feel and what it reminds you of in your own life.

28

6) Once everyone is seated again, the sharers get another

7) The facilitator invites and encourages the whole group,

Supporting caregivers to build on

psychosocial wellbeing at home
Psychosocial support is most powerful when it comes from
the people that are most important to us. For children,
therefore, it is very important that psychosocial wellbeing
starts at home. Educators and caregivers need to be aware of
the importance of having loving, kind and caring relationship
with their own children. They can also encourage caregivers
of the learners at their school to follow some of the basic
principles of psychosocial support at home.
Respect children: Give children lots of opportunities to
express their thoughts, ideas and wishes.
Positive reinforcement: Give children encouragement
wherever possible. Harsh criticism of their drawing, writing
and counting, for example, is undermining and damages
their resilience. If a child has done something right,
acknowledge it. If he has done something that you do not
like, you need to tell him why you do not like it, so that he
understands.
Taking part in an activity which the child has chosen.

When you do this, she learns that her wishes are

important to you. This will help her feel important and
build self esteem.

Show through your words and actions that the child is

loved. Verbal and physical expressions of affection
reinforce a persons sense of their own value. e.g. hugging
and holding

29

 Make routine times special, fun and enjoyable. Bath, bed

and listening to the radio together also help bind a family.

with materials such as water, sand and art materials or

and mealtimes offer opportunities for spending enjoyable

Responses to television or radio programmes can provide

encouraging them to make up and present a drama.

time with the child. Read to the child, tell him stories and

an opportunity to discuss crucial issues such as sex,

tell him about the things he did when he was younger. Talk

violence, drugs and war, as well as to affirm certain values.

about the nice things you did together during the day. This
ends the day on a positive note.
Take time to listen when a child has a problem. This will
make him feel worthwhile and special.
Take an interest in the childs activities and hobbies. Try
and attend parent meetings at school, sports events, etc.
Make working together on chores in the house fun. This

things. This will make it easier to communicate with them

when you need to discuss something important with them.
Storytelling: Children love listening to stories. You can
make up your own stories. Tell stories about the children
themselves. This helps strengthen their sense of identity.
You can also use stories to explore themes that are related
to their illness such as loss, grief and the importance of

and have very little time to spend with children. While

closeness. It is good to encourage children to tell their own

doing the dishes you could, for example, encourage the

stories.
Reading books: Books help children learn about

like: Who can spot an item starting with the letter A?

themselves and about the world. They learn to think and

Children enjoy this. Ask them about their day at school

to ask and answer questions by reading books.

while you are busy cooking or cleaning. You can let little

Body talk awareness activities: Looking at themselves

children play alongside you while you are busy with chores

in the mirror, for example, may teach them important

in which they cannot be involved.

information about their bodies

Make regular time to have fun together as a family/

of resilience.

Communication: Talk to children about many different

is especially useful for those caregivers who work all day

child to dry them or play a word game by asking questions

Laughing: Laughter and humour are wonderful sources

Singing: Singing is a powerful way to bring harmony and

household. There are many things that families can do

inspiration into a childs life. It also helps them to locate

together. These things unite the family and give children

themselves culturally, a deep source of resilience.

strength and self-confidence. Outdoor activities such as

Playing: Playing with other children is one of the most

sport and walking are especially healthy and important.

important ways in which children learn emotional,

Attending social gatherings and religious meetings as a

cognitive and social skills. The friendships they develop

family or household also helps the child feel included and

through play are essential to their sense of self. Caregivers

confident. Indoor activities such as games, watching TV

can sometimes direct their play by supplying them

30

(REPSSI.2008. .p21-22)

Addressing specific psychosocial issues in schools

This section starts with some examples of how psychosocial

Discrimination and stigma

REPSSIs hero book process (see Section 7)) suggests one

issues have been identified in specific school communities

Divorce and/or separation of parents

way that the psychosocial issues facing a particular group of

and how an increased awareness of psychosocial support

Experience of loss

young people can be identified and addressed. This method

principles can lead to helpful action. The section highlights the

Exposure to frightening experiences

can be adapted for school communities. In activity 14 of the

invaluable role of the educator in addressing and responding

Gang-related violence

hero book, there is an activity called common obstacles: the

to psychosocial issues. It outlines some of the key values that

HIV and AIDS and other chronic illnesses

group think, talk about and list some of the obstacles that are

are necessary for creating PSS sensitive spaces in the school

Issues facing out-of-school youth

standing between them and their goals. The example in the

and provides examples of different ways of addressing specific

Sexual harassment and rape

manual includes: neglect, alcoholism, abuse, hunger, drugs and

PSS issues.

Poverty

no safe spaces to meet at night.

11

Relationships between male teachers and female learners

Common psychosocial issues affecting

schools

Substance abuse

Each hero book made by each child addresses a single

Sexuality

psychosocial obstacle but also goes on to look at how each

There are many psychosocial issues affecting childrens

Sugar daddies

child has power over these problems (tricks and tactics).

learning and wellbeing. They include:

Teenage pregnancy

These tricks and tactics can then be shared as a group

Bullying

Xenophobia

but they may also be shared with other children in other

communities facing similar problems.

Child abuse
Child neglect

Obviously all these issues might not apply to your school and/

Apart from the hero book approach, there are many

Child-headed households

or there might be other issues in your school community that

resources available from other schools that have already

Conflict in the home

are not on this list.

designed special projects to address PSS issues.

Domestic violence

11: The term spaces is used to demonstrate the range of possibilities available to educators and/or other members of the school community. Learning can take place in the classroom during

school time but it can also form part of extra-curricular activities facilitated by a community volunteer, non-governmental organisation and/or caregiver for example.

31

Applying the principles of psychosocial

support
After assessing the specific psychosocial issues affecting your
school, you may wish to design andor adapt a programme that
is tailored to your curriculum or extra-curricular activities.

Issue

PSS focus

You notice that a

learner in your school
is sick quite often.

The learner does not seem to be on

treatment and you are worried about his or
her health.

You visit the learners family and sensitively raise

your observations with the learners parents. You
offer to link them with the clinic for assessment and
treatment. Or you link with a home-based care
programme in the community and ask them to visit
the family.

You notice that

learners are teasing a
learner whose mother
is said to have passed
away due to an AIDSrelated illness.

You feel that the learners are discriminating

against the learner because of the illness
that has visited their home.

You design a classroom session on treating each other

with respect. You discuss different things that make
people feel disrespected and make them feel different
from others. You help the children to write Hero
Books to build their sense of achievement.

You notice that a

learner is bullying
other learners.

You suspect that this learner comes from

a difficult family situation of domestic
violence.

You spend time building a relationship with the

learner. You give him special responsibilities in class to
make him feel proud. You try to find time to talk to
the learners about his situation at home. If necessary
you refer the learner to the local social worker to visit
the family.

You notice a learner

has stopped attending
school.

You suspect it is because he has very old

shoes and school clothes and the other
learners are ridiculing this learner.

You ask the principal of your school if you may donate

some of the clothes in the second-hand clothes shop
to this learner. You tell a story in class about a boy
who was very poor but who overcame this challenge
and went on to be well liked by his peers.

You hear that an

educator is being rude
about learners who
do not pay school
fees and is humiliating
those learners in the
classroom.

You are aware that many learners come

from poor families and cannot afford to pay
their school feels. You also know that the
educator is stressed at home and that she is
taking out her frustrations on the learners.

You link with a community based organisation (CBO)

to assist learners who are unable to apply for school
fees to get an exemption. You comment on the
positive things that the educator is doing and try to
encourage her where possible.

You might also be able to respond on a one-to-one basis with

a particular learner and/or caregiver through strengthening
their circles of support. Here are some examples of how an
educator may identify psychosocial issues and respond in a
concrete and helpful way. This list of psychosocial issues is not
comprehensive, but provides a sample of some of the ways in

Action

which a schools PSS focus may be enhanced.

32

Examples of psychosocial issues and

approaches to address these issues

Children affected by loss

there might not be any financial support for school fees or the

Many children today are coping with multiple losses. These

learner might be caring for a sick parent.

The following section gives ideas about the basic principles to

may include loss of caregivers or parents, loss of hope for the

keep in mind when responding to specific situations. It also

future, loss of sense of security and loss of enthusiasm for life.

The following rules outlined by Killian et al (2002) are helpful

provides information about resources that are available on

Remember that the way boys and girls or young and older

and can be used both with individuals and in a group context.

specific topics.

children experience loss may be very different.

Children from families affected by poverty

It is important to try to reduce the stress factors in childrens

Many children affected by poverty say that the thing they hate

lives at this time and educators may be sensitive to drops in

most about being poor is being treated differently. This means

concentration and school performance. But be careful not to

1. Allow them to speak to someone who is calm and

that it is helpful to find ways of helping children who are poor

re-victimise the child by dwelling too much on their problems.

able to answer their questions openly and honestly.

without singling them out for special attention. So even as you

It is perhaps more important that children are encouraged to

try to assist children with additional resources, do it in a way

engage in normal childhood activities such as play and sports

2. Maintain routines as much as possible. This gives

that builds their dignity and does not expose them to ridicule.

and attending school or joining a kids club, rather than putting

children a sense of security. This is referred to as

pressure on them to talk about the loss and to express pain.

normalisation. It is often more helpful than putting

Here are some ideas from other schools aimed at supporting

At the same time, constructive approaches with elements

pressure on children to speak about their grief.

children who are affected by poverty:

of life review, hope building, strengthening supportive

Getting donations of school uniforms, shoes and stationery

relationships, memory work (for example, Hero Books and

3. Tell them who will be taking care of them now or

from other children, wealthier schools and/or local

Tree of Life) can help the child make space to deal with loss

when such a decision will be made and by whom (involve

businesses. Teenagers especially appreciate things like soap,

in a positive way (see Section 7 for more information about

children in this decision making, if at all possible).

toothpaste, deodorant and hair products to allow them to

these tools). Condolences from the school and particular

take good care of themselves.

friends can be very helpful for children coping with loss.

4. Reassure them they did not cause the death.

They could not have done anything to prevent, or delay,

Finding employment (like working on school maintenance

or gardens) for the parents of children

Golden rules to help children cope with loss

Attending school is vital - it helps children affected by loss to

the death.

Helping parents to access government grants

cope with their situation and regain a sense of stability and

Implementing a system of school fee exemptions

normality in their lives. Find out why a learner has stopped

5. Prepare them ahead of time for an expected loss,

Growing food in gardens in the school and allowing

attending school. This might be due to changes in the home

if possible.

children to take their favourite vegetables home

circumstances. A learner might be the head of the household,

33

There are many sensitive and helpful resources to help

may show regressive behaviour (acting like a younger child),

affected by conflict and emergency situations. This may be

children deal with the process of grieving:

fears and avoidance of certain aspects linked to the event,

downloaded from www.repssi.org.

REPSSIs Psychosocial care and support for young children

nightmares, concentration difficulties, guilt and frightening

and infants in the time of HIV and AIDS has a useful

memories about what happened. This is very normal and

Children from homes where there is conflict

section on helping children cope with loss

most children will show strong reactions for some time after

Many families living in post-conflict situations or situations of

such experiences. At the same time, most children will recover

extreme poverty are also affected by domestic violence or

based care workers. Unit 4 focuses on supporting grieving

naturally in time, especially if they are given consistent care and

conflict in the home. This may be exacerbated by substance

children

support. For some time after such events, special attention

abuse. This may be very stressful for children, who may feel

should be given to the ideas expressed above.

frightened and helpless, guilty and responsible about what

children in a group or class can speak about their

Ensure consistency and maintain normal familiar routines.

is happening, angry about the abuse of a parent, sibling or

relationships, hope and fears, and feelings of loss in ways

The support of family and friends is particularly important.

themselves. It is particularly complicated for children if violence

that do not put them under pressure to speak directly

One may create opportunities for children to talk about

comes from someone who is supposed to be protecting and

REPSSIs Weaving Hope is a resource guide for home-

REPSSIs Tree of Life creates a space in which the

about a particular loss or bereavement if they are not yet

what has happened, but they should never be forced or

caring for the family. Once again school may become a safe

ready. A bereaved child, for example, who is not ready

pressurised to talk until they are ready.

and structured place where children can recover from such

to talk about the loss might engage in the activity and only
speak of connections (past or present) and express hope
about the future.
REPSSIs Mobilising Child- and Youth-led Organisations
proposes a child-to-child approach in mutual counselling,
recognising that children can act as important resources
among themselves.

Art and storytelling can be helpful ways of encouraging

children to process what happened.
Allow plenty of time for playing games that might be linked
to the traumatic event. This helps children to process and
deal with their experiences.
Where possible try to focus on what the child and others
did to cope with the experience and try to introduce
positive endings to stories and games about the event. For

Children who have been through frightening

experiences
Experiences like violence, witnessing people fighting, robberies,
car accidents and natural disasters like floods usually affect
most people very intensely for some time afterwards. Children
are also usually deeply affected by such experiences. They

experiences. Children may be further assisted by schools

through:
Being linked to social welfare authorities who can properly
assess the situation at home
Being given safe spaces to talk about what is happening
at home
Being assisted to find ways of staying safe if conflict at
home escalates.

example you could say something like I wonder what the

people in that situation did to come out of it alive?
Hero books are especially helpful in assisting children to
develop positive stories about their experiences.
REPSSI and TPO Uganda have written an anthology of
materials that are available to trainers working in schools

34

Families affected by separation

Increasing numbers of families are also undergoing separation
and divorce. This has a strong impact on children, many of
whom have a natural desire for their parents to stay together.
Children whose parents are going through a separation also

speak of feeling socially isolated and again many have a strong

how the adults around them handled the situation in the

desire to be seen as normal. The same principles apply

early stages of disclosure.

where consistency and social support are helpful. If there are

Children who have been abused are very sensitive about

changes to be made in the family situation, children should

not being believed. Take care to show the child that you

be kept informed. Parents from both sides of the separation

take their story seriously.

should try to build up a positive image of the other parent to

Children who have been sexually abused have often said

the children, even if they are feeling very angry or resentful

that they wish someone would simply say to them I am so

about that person. A positive image of their parents is very

sorry that this happened to you., Even though the abuse

important to a childs sense of wellbeing

cannot be undone, it is very helpful for children to have

someone who believes and supports them.

Children who have been sexually abused

Talk to the parents of the child on their own. It is best that

There are many effective schools-based programmes

they are not over-emotional in front of the child. Give

supporting children who have been sexually abused. If you

them some guidance about how to behave calmly and in a

feel that abuse is an issue in your school, consider linking with

caring way to the child.

an NGO specialising in this field. The CINDI Child Advocacy

Get legal assistance from a relevant authority. Where

Project has produced a booklet on Sexual Abuse Free

possible, involve an NGO that specialises in assisting

Classrooms this guide may be downloaded free from

children and families affected by abuse.

www.cindi.org.za.

Try to keep the childs situation at home as normal as

possible for example, rather remove a perpetrator than

Most guides about supporting children affected by sexual

abuse emphasise similar points about consistency and social
support of children affected by abuse. In addition, here are
some key points about how to handle situations of abuse or

remove a child from their home or school.

Give the child a sense of control of the situation by giving
them small choices that they can make.
If you suspect a teacher of abusing children, you have

suspected abuse:

a legal obligation to report these suspicions to the local

Stay calm and deal with the situation in a calm and

authorities. It may help you to link with an NGO who can

comforting way. Do not get dramatic and make sudden

assist you with this matter.

decisions or react in an emotional manner. Research shows

that much of childrens recovery from abuse depends on

35

Respecting differences

Reducing stigma and discrimination

a whole lot of challenges in the same sentence, rather than

A common theme that has been highlighted in the above

Here are further tips about creating a respectful environment

singling out a particular type of problem. For example you

sections is that children have a very strong desire to be seen as

that accepts childrens differences:

could say We are all affected by certain problems in our

normal, which in their world means being treated the same

Spend time in class focusing on what makes people similar

lives like coming from a poor family, coming from a family

as everyone else. This can be challenging. There are many

Focus on respect for the dignity of all people, regardless of

where there is fighting, a family where there is illness ...

differences between children. They might come from very

poor families or from different cultural groups. Some children

how do we help each other to be strong if we come from

their differences
Speak positively about differences for example you can

are physically different from others. Some come from broken

talk enthusiastically about the way there is so much

families or have lost parents. Some children might be taking

diversity in the world

regular treatment for illnesses like diabetes, cancer, HIV and

such a situation at home?

Have certain school policies for all situations relating to
health and hygiene so that teachers do not choose whom

Use metaphors like animals and plants to talk about

they think is HIV positive by treating them differently (for

AIDS. Childrens sense of their own difference is usually very

diversity and how differences are important in the world

example if a child is injured and bleeding). Try to normalise

dependent on how other children and teachers treat them,

and how each creature has a unique role to play in life

such situations as routine ways of dealing with things, rather

especially at school. A recent research project on childrens

Have specific classroom sessions about name-calling for

experiences of stigma relating to HIV and AIDS showed that

various differences. Try to make these fun and creative. Try

for them what was particularly painful was being called names

not to single out particular names or types of differences

by other children (see www.cindi.org.za). Schools have a

Deal gently with children who call each other names. The

than becoming dramatic or overcompensating by explaining

what you are doing and why.
You may also discuss different strategies that children can use

unique opportunity to create an environment that respects

same research project on stigma towards children affected

to defend themselves against discrimination or ridicule:

differences and creates attitudes of care towards children

by HIV and AIDS showed that the children who were the

For example, one child found it helpful to laugh at himself

affected by different challenges. The idea of different but the

most aggressive about teasing others were themselves

when children called him a guitar because of the way

same can be helpful. The same research report showed that

experiencing difficulties. Many had also experienced illness

in which his body shape had been affected by illness.

children affected by HIV and AIDS who attended schools in

at home and they were using the name-calling as a defence

The children soon lost interest in calling the child names

which just one teacher established a caring and supportive

to distance themselves from their own painful situation.

because they were not getting a strong reaction from that

relationship with them coped well with their situation.

Try to link certain types of challenges to each other. For

example, dont single out HIV and AIDS as a very special
illness. When talking about HIV and AIDS, normalise it by
relating it to other illnesses like diabetes, cancer, high blood

child.
Another young lady spoke to the people who were calling
her Miss ARVs saying Thank you you have reminded
me to take my medication.
Others found that talking to someone else helped when

pressure and TB.

When talking about difficulties affecting children, mention

36

they were feeling upset about being called names.

Children will often find their own solutions to even very

painful situations, so remember to ask them about what

How much positive feedback and encouragement they

receive about their abilities

strategies they think would work for them.

Schools focusing on PSS can develop an environment where

Friendship and social integration

children (and even other educators and the head teacher !)

Another point that has been emphasised in this section is that

are given a lot of positive feedback about their strengths and

friendships and social support are one of the main things that

abilities. Some schools even have an approach which focuses

help children cope with difficult situations. Having just one

on different types of intelligence of a child this means not

good friend or caring adult can help a child to cope with many

only rewarding children who are good at science and maths,

different challenges. This is something that may be a focus in

for example, but giving credit to children who are good at:

schools through:

Sports

Having specific sessions on friendships

Cultural activities

Encouraging children to reach out to those who do not

Art
Showing care and respect for others (sometimes called

have a good friend

Helping children who are new to the school to be

emotional and social intelligence)

socially integrated
Focusing on the strengths of each child in class so that
other children start seeing these strengths
Organising games and classroom activities that connect
children together in a helpful way

Encouraging cooperation and care

amongst children
Schools wanting to mainstream PSS can also focus explicitly on
cooperation and care amongst children. This may include:
Designing classroom activities and projects about care

Building self-esteem
The points above link very much to the development of the
self-esteem of a child. Much of the childs sense of self esteem

and cooperation
Facilitating games that promote cooperation rather
than competition
Giving credit to children who show cooperation and

will depend on:

Whether or not they have a friend and are part of a

care towards one another

Encouraging projects about giving to others who are

social group
How well they do at different aspects of school

37

in need in the community

Bullying and conflict in schools

without being too direct or intimidating. Be careful when you

Many schools are reporting an increase in bullying and conflict.

choose to give them responsibilities that the child is sure to be

This is to be expected given the stress that many communities

able to do them well. Children involved in bullying often need

and families are experiencing at home. Learners who are

a lot of support in order to build a sense of their own dignity

bullied are typically anxious, insecure, and cautious and

and may be sensitive to any form of perceived humiliation.

suffer from low self-esteem, rarely defending themselves or

retaliating when confronted by students who bully them. The

While it is important to build relationships with children who

experience of being bullied can lead children to feel tense,

show any form of aggression, the school must also have a

anxious and afraid. It can affect their concentration in school,

specific policy against any form of bullying or violence,. You can

and can lead them to avoid school in some cases

read more about this idea on www.childlinesa.org.

(www.safeyouth.org).
Taking the Hassle out of School is based on the work of the
At the same time, however, it has been found that children

anti-harassment team of Selwyn College, by Dorothea Lewis

who are most active at bullying others and fighting at school

and Aileen Cheshire. In this model, learners themselves make

are almost always from families in which there is conflict. This

up an anti-harassment team and act as mediators to facilitate

means that we should not fight fire with fire by humiliating

the resolution of student conflict. A culture of respect for

children who show bullying behaviour. Excessive punishment

diversity and non-violence is built and maintained by students

can make the situation worse. Instead, modern approaches to

in the following way:

bullying recommend taking time to build a caring relationship

Learners volunteer to become trained as mediators.

with such children. Once again making space for those children

Should a conflict (bullying, discrimination or gossip) arise,

to talk about their experiences at home can be valuable.

any student (the affected student or a bystander) has the

Initially such children may not handle such a situation well and

right to call for mediation as a form of intervention which

may want to act aggressively. A patient and unpressurised

can help resolve the conflict. Each party takes a friend to

approach is more helpful than being too direct or intimate

the mediating session so that there are equal numbers on

with the child or young person. Children involved in bullying

each side.

often respond well to being given special responsibilities, like

being asked to hold up a picture in class. This may be a good
way of building a relationship with the child or young person

38

In the mediation room, the mediator explains:

1) That her role is not to solve the problem or be the judge
but to help the parties solve the problem themselves
2) That each person will be given equal time to talk
3) That they should not talk directly to each other but to
the mediator

Try to prevent exposing learners to suffering. Schools have

an ethical responsibility to engage in preventive

Activity 7:

programmes like child-protection and community safety

How is gender relevant to your

programme?

programmes as well as HIV-prevention initiatives.

Respect privacy and avoid stigmatising children.
Set up evaluation and monitoring processes in order to

Together with others in your school, discuss the

4) That they should not interrupt each other

ensure that the resources used by the school are directed

following questions:

5) That at all times they should speak with respect for each

to maximise the benefits for children.

What is the role of men in our school?

other even if they are upset

What is the role of women in our school?

Keeping gender in mind

How do men and women relate to the learners

As you are enhancing your PSS focus, it is worth thinking about

gender issues. Mainstreaming PSS includes thinking about how

Is there any difference in the way that boys and

men and women, boys and girls are included in all aspects of

For more information see http://www.dulwichcentre.com.au/

wellbeing. PSS methods try to encourage members of both sexes

What messages have we noticed that we

intjournal.html

to participate fully in all aspects of life. For example, think about:

Whether boys and girls are treated equally in your

What have we noticed about the gender attitudes

6) To try and think and act and talk in ways that are solutionfocused and avoid blame and accusations
7) That they need to sign or contract into this agreement
and these rules

Ethical considerations when working

with children
In developing the PSS focus of your school, try to keep in mind

of the community members towards our school

responsibilities?)

and the children we support?

The types of messages you are communicating to learners

including children in PSS-related activities:

men and women or what males and females can and

Be sure that you have the consent of caregivers and

cannot do

Refer children for specialised support where needed.

communicate about boys and girls?

and their caregivers about the roles of boys and girls or

topics to learners.

girls are treated in our school?

school (for example, are they given the same tasks and

these ethical issues with particular reference to involving and

relevant authorities before introducing any sensitive PSS

in our school?

Whether men are also given caring roles in relation

to learners

Whether girls are given equal opportunities to advance

their education in your school
Whether you have positive male and female role models

Confidentiality needs to be maintained unless in a situation

in your school and whether the learners in your school are

where a learners life may be at risk. In such a situation, you

given opportunities to develop safe relationships with both

would still negotiate the limits of the confidential relationship.

men and women

39

Whether you consult both male and female caregivers

about different aspects of their childrens wellbeing

Tools, approaches and programmes for

mainstreaming psychosocial support into schools
7

REPSSI, along with other non governmental organisations, has

their schools into centres of care and support. A platform

A school community might suggest improvements to the

developed a range of psychosocial tools and/or interventions

for building a common understanding and engaging peoples

school such as the following:

which can be used to assist school communities to mainstream

commitment and participation is established. The process

scholar patrols so that children can cross the road safely

PSS. We have included a small selection of these tools to give

involves a number of different activities which together produce a

arranging a mobile clinic to visit the school

you a sense of the variety, creativity and flexibility of the tools

coherent plan of action and also identify potential obstacles. The

growing vegetables

at your disposal. We hope that these will inspire you to read

process can be facilitated by a few willing members of the school

ensuring that all children have birth certificates

further and to use the tools that are compatible with and fit

community or even an external NGO facilitator. It is important to

ensuring that all children eat three nutritious meals a day

with the vision and needs of your school community. You can

remember that both the purpose of the exercise and the method

making sure that children are never hit at school

download free manuals and materials on these tools from

it uses reflect PSS principles. This means that full participation is

( Rudolph. 2008. p75)

www.repssi.org.

vital at all stages. This tool is relevant to section 3 which looks

specifically at creating an overall approach for mainstreaming PSS

1. Journeying towards our dreams

(JTOD)

in the school community.

The JTOD is an example of a process that can be used with all

Some of the topics in the JTOD manual include:

the key stakeholders of a school community to assist them in

discovering our own dreams

creating their school as a centre of care and support.

identifying optimal conditions for nurturing the potential

in children/learners

Aims of the JTOD manual

creating an ideal school

This tool has been developed to assist school communities

identifying obstacles and problem-solving strategies at

to create a vision for mainstreaming PSS in their schools. A

all levels from the classroom to the staffroom

framework is provided through which key players can visualise the

PSS skills for the school community - e.g. communication skills

ideal school for their children and, in so doing, begin to transform

creating circles of support

40

2. Hero books
What is a Hero Book?

as music, movement and drama. Whilst a carefully thought

A particular problem is identified and named.

out structure and purpose underlies the Hero Book process

The problem is then located as something outside of

A Hero Book is a document, and a solution-focused process,

it is not intended to be prescriptive and can be adapted to

the person rather than identified as an integral part of

in which a learner is invited to be the author, illustrator, main

suit particular curriculum outcomes/objectives. Hero Books

their identity.

character and editor of a book that is designed to give them

can also be used with adults and children outside of school,

power over a specific challenge in their life. The Hero Book

for example in youth groups and clubs. The optimal way of

which the person experienced, however fleetingly, some

process can be described as one in which a class of learners is

teaching Hero Books is to use a teaching style which values

power over the problem or hope that it might be overcome.

led through a series of drawing exercises and autobiographical

the learners participation as this encourages classroom

story-telling prompts that have been designed to help

discussion and reflection. Hero Books can be used with a wide

do, to achieve a measure of control over the problem are

learners achieve mastery over specific problems or challenges

age range of learners but it is most appropriate for learners

identified and examined.

in their lives. At the end of the process (25 exercises), the

between the ages of 12 and 14.

12

A shining moment or unique outcome is identified in

Some of the things the person can do, or has begun to

The making of a Hero Book is a process that results in a

learner has a hand-bound storybook of their own making that

documents, and reinforces their coping strategies and their

REPSSI and the Department of Education Western Cape,

product. The process involves finding out more about oneself

hero/resilient abilities.

HIV and AIDS Life Skills Programme is also busy developing

and ones circles of support. It also requires participants to

an educator guide so that educators can do a hero book

think about the difficulties and goals in their lives. At the end

Hero Books and the Curriculum

over one term, pursuing both academic (language and life-

of the process, each learner will have made their own book,

The Hero Book process has been designed in such a way that

orientation learning outcomes) as well as psychosocial goals.

celebrating the story of their own lives The educator needs to

emphasise both the importance of going through the process

it can be integrated into the mainstream school curriculum.

There are explicit links with the Life Orientation , Languages

What is the Hero Book process?

and Literacy subject areas. Hero Books can be used to

The Hero Book process should ideally be implemented over

pursue specific academic outcomes as well as to improve

a period of one school term by a Life Orientation educator

the psychosocial wellbeing of learners. Hero Books also

working with a Language educator. The process is based on

offer opportunities for integrating arts-based subjects such

the following steps:

13

properly and the achievement of the final product.

14

12: Solution-focused as opposed to problem-focused highlights positive coping strategies that learners identify along the way to making their hero book. It also helps them focus on the solution rather than on the problem.
13: Life Orientation is the term that is used in the South African education system to refer to what was previously known as Guidance. This subject primarily focuses on building life skills and self-esteem in learners as they explore and encounter real life situations.
14: Anything longer than one term could dilute the focus of the Hero Book process. Team teaching is encouraged in the teaching of Hero Books but this is not always feasible. It is vital that the educator who uses the Hero Book process in your school is someone who

has a natural empathy and respectful relationship with his/her learners.

41

Benefits for learners and educators

and lighter after sharing and writing down their problems.

The Hero Book process offers several benefits for the

Below are some of the benefits identified by learners who

As one learner said of the effect of sharing a problem: It

educators. These are:

have undergone the Hero Book experience.

was weighing on my mind, I shared it and it does not feel

improved teaching practice as it uses participatory and

a sense of increased confidence: I feel stronger inside.

so heavy

I dont need to go to tell my mother, I can be with myself.

Nice to know there is a hero in me
a creative journey to discover a sense of self: I write
stories, poems and lyrics about my problems now after
doing the hero book
a change in academic work and attitude: My school
work has improved, mainly maths, I can talk about it
an experience of a cathartic effect: Learners felt better

learner centred15 teaching methods

the ability to anticipate potential problem situations had

improved: I will make sure I am not at home alone when
my uncle is there

getting to know learners in a more holistic way

ways of supporting learners by encouraging self reflection
and awareness

the experience of giving and receiving peer support:

I learnt that I am not alone

developing and getting access to local networks to

support learners and educators

focus on positive goals and aspirations: I liked looking

ahead, I can plan things then, It inspired me, I dont have

The following case study highlights some of the important

problems (Rabinowitz. 2009. p 8)

aspects of the Hero Books for educators.

Druscilla Van Niekerk is a seasoned primary

this into life orientation. When they had to retell their hero

looked at their strengths, identified obstacles, and looked at

school educator from Kraaifontein in the

stories, I used this as a formal assessment for I didnt push it

how to deal with them and overcome them. I enjoyed the

Western Cape. These are her reflections on

all the way. Next time I do it, Ill brief the history teacher to

interaction with my learners on a totally different level and

the process:

take the same Hero Books my kids are working on and ask

basis and got to know them in a different way.

him to do the family tree, and Ill ask the geography teacher
When the manual introduces the basic building blocks, goals,

to do the community map, and the maths teacher to do

It has always worried me that so many of these kids come

obstacles, problems, seeing the problem clearly, etc., I made

the net, where we fold the page in half and half again etc. to

from troubled backgrounds and homes, and this interferes

them pull out their dictionaries, and we did dictionary work.

come up with 16 squares.

with both learning and teaching. But Ive never known really
how to address it. I see how Hero Books helped these kids

For the part where they must identify their big goals and the
small goal the reason for making this hero book and how

What I liked about the Hero Book process was the fact

and their emotional and behavioural problems to settle

they hope it will help them in the next few weeks, I built

that kids got to determine their own goals in life. They

down, so we could get on with learning and teaching.

Several helpful resources have been created for educators to assist them in the use of Hero Books. See www.repssi.org
15: The learner centred paradigm is interactive and focuses not only on what is learned but also on how knowledge is acquired. It also enables the learners and the educators to recognise what knowledge the learner brings to the learning process.

42

3. Memory Work

caregivers living with HIV and AIDS, memory work might be

children, in that it places no pressure on them to speak or

Background

an important form of psychosocial support. However, a key

deal with loss or trauma. Should they however wish to raise

Memory work can be defined as creating a safe space in

element of the definition of memory work centers around a

or deal with these issues, Tree of Life provides guidance to the

which to explore your life story as a form of self help or

safe space in which to do this work.

facilitator how these feelings might be dealt with. This guide

may be downloaded from www.repssi.org.

group support. The safe space can be a physical space like

a room or the shade under a tree, where people explore and

With regard to memory work in the school community, these

share their life stories just by talking. However, these spaces

safety points need to be kept in mind:

5. Kids Clubs

can also be the space on the pages of a book or on the sides

Memory work as described in the REPSSI memory work

Kids Clubs (KCs) are organised, regular meetings of children in

of a box on which you express things about your life by writing

or drawing.

manual, was designed for adults and not children.

To suddenly introduce memory work in the classroom,

a safe environment with the purpose of creating a space which

allows children to receive and give support and develop life

for example by asking all children (many of whom might

skills. Usually the members of the KCs identify the psychosocial

Memory work was begun by a group of HIV-positive mothers

have lost parents or caregivers) to make a memory book

issues that they wish to explore together. Then sessions are

in Uganda who used memory books and boxes to help them

or box, might do more harm than good if the child is not

facilitated on these topics, with plans of action and follow up

communicate more closely with their children, disclose their

ready to express their feelings of grief or loss in a group or

designed by the KC members themselves.

positive status to their children, as well as to begin the process

classroom situation

of future planning together. However, this is not to say that

Tools such as the Tree of Life and the Hero Book, involve

They are a low-cost intervention which mainly requires

memory work is only for HIV-positive people or that HIV

some aspects of memory work but do not put pressure

human effort and the use of local resources in supporting

positive people who make boxes and books should mostly

on children to talk about loss or express feelings of

children. Kids Clubs can be one part of a larger childcare

write about their HIV status, or that they should only be used

grief. These tools would therefore be appropriate to use

program where the KCs provide an opportunity to check-

to prepare for death. Many of the people we have worked

in order to focus on the fullness of childrens lives rather

in on the children and identify specific needs. In some areas

with have used them to fight for, and celebrate, life. Anyone

than on the losses that they have experienced.

Kids Clubs have been used as focal points for providing meals

who wants to work creatively with his or her story can do

and distributing food parcels and other resources. Kids clubs

memory work. One person, a parent and child, a whole family

4. Tree of Life

may vary significantly and in many ways depending on their

or a group can make a memory box or book. This manual will

The Tree of Life sets out to create safe spaces for children

purpose, the organisation initiating them and the community

be useful for anyone who runs groups as part of their work.

affected by HIV and AIDS, poverty or conflict to speak of

and culture in which they are based.

loss, hope, connection and courage. It is specifically useful as a

Safety points regarding memory work in schools

tool that can deal with loss and bereavement without relying

The manual Facilitating Care and Support Through Kids

Within the school community, especially for and with

on catharsis and avoids the risk and danger of re-victimising

Clubs was published by REPSSI and the Olive Leaf Foundation

43

and is designed to equip Kids Clubs leaders/youth leaders with

employed by schools as educator assistants. An additional goal

Target group

knowledge and skills that they will need to start up and run

is to build a sense of community among parents and to create

This programme is particularly valuable for communities with

Kids Clubs.

a positive, nurturing space for parents to share ideas and ask

high poverty levels, scarce resources, low levels of parental

questions.

education and limited access to good formal education. Most

In South Africa, Soul City provide materials for Kids Clubs

childrens failure to read and write is attributable to social

through their Soul Buddyz campaigns. These materials are

Target group

inequalities rather than intrinsic deficiencies. The programme

available free of charge from www.soulcity.org.

The programme is appropriate for parents/caregivers of

can be used by preschool educators, learning support/

children between the ages of 4 and 7. It promotes informal

remedial educators and primary school educators. It can also

6. The home school partnership

programme

learning and is applicable across languages and cultures.

be used outside the classroom by people who have no teacher

The programme does not aim to impose a set of ideals or

training. It is suitable, for example, for people who want to

Aims of the programme

an educational framework on parents and communities but

work directly with children or for facilitators who would like to

The aim of this programme is to strengthen the partnership

rather inspire parents to support their children so that they

set up a team of tutors to work with children. In the school

between the school and the home through the recognition of

can fulfil their true learning potential. The principles of such a

context, an educator could use the programme as a resource

parents/caregivers as the primary teachers of their children.

programme could easily be adapted for learners with different

for training a team of volunteers to support children who are

This programme offers practical guidelines in the course of a

needs in different grades. For more information, see Appendix

liable to experience reading difficulties. A librarian could use it

series of seven sessions which cover the following topics:

Three: Useful resources and contact details

to set up a team of library assistants to work with children in

the library after school. In the words of a school principal:

early language and literacy

how young children learn and how we can support

7. The early literacy support programme

The success of the reading project at our school was

Aims of the programme:

quantified through testing however, one cannot place

basic maths concepts

This programme can be seen as a continuation of the previous

a value on the growth of the children with regard to their

fine and gross motor development.

programme. It has a specific focus on literacy development,

increased self-confidence, the soaring of their sense of self-

positive self-esteem and positive discipline

though, and also supports caregivers and/or volunteers in

worth and self-esteem .(O Carrol. 2009. p 6)

them at home

their role of becoming educator assistants. By focusing on the

Whilst focusing parents/caregivers attention on the PSS and

literacy and educational needs of learners, it helps to prevent

learning needs of the child, it also indirectly enhances parents/

school failure, one of the main factors that undermine learners

caregiver self esteem and their ability to support their child.

sense of self-esteem.

It also creates opportunities for parents to become more

involved in their childrens schooling, with some going on to be

44

8. The Extra-Mural Education Project

(EMEP): Schools as community hubs

EMEP offers hands on support to schools by offering:

1. Training and support for schools to start up, sustain, and

Aims of EMEP

extend well-managed extra-mural programmes for

EMEP works with schools in order to transform them into

children, youth, parents, and community members that are

hubs of learning, recreation and support in their communities.

engaging, varied, creative, well-managed and safe .

The aim is to support teaching and learning by developing

2. Ongoing support for the schools continuous, internal

that the school is able to effectively facilitate both

internal and external partnerships between their various
stakeholder groups

3. Community development and support for local

organisations and individuals to deal with their underlying
needs in order to use the school successfully as a
community resource, and then to work together to do so

school-based extra-mural activities and support services. The

organisational, curricular, and community development as

motivation behind such an approach is based on the belief

a vibrant teacher-, child-, and family-friendly institution.

that learners need meaningful, child-friendly opportunities to

Some of the underlying concerns here are:

government officials (district, provincial, and national) to

to ensure that teachers needs are accommodated and

enable and sustain the above.

experience wellbeing and success. While the learners are the

primary beneficiaries of EMEPs extra-mural development

supported through a balanced timetable that relieves

approach, educators, parents, families, and local communities

pressure and workload

are directly involved as they play key roles in achieving positive

outcomes for learners.

Range of programmes:
The programmes are inclusive of the school community at
large. Examples of specific programmes are:
Institutional programmes such as: working towards
creating high-quality leaders, managers and planners and
educators as well as creating an engaging curriculum
Child and youth programmes such as: leadership training,
skills development, career guidance, service learning and
extra-mural programming (drama, writing clubs etc.)
School community programmes such as: adult learning,
employment and recreation, family social support and
advocacy, and early childhood programmes.

45

4. Advocacy, support, and, wherever possible, training for

Some of the benefits of EMEPs involvement in schools are

expressed by educators in terms of the following statements:

EMEP opened doors for

me to socialise with people
EMEP has taught me how to organise and execute a variety of

from different cultures and

programmes which at the end develop the child holistically.

personalities in a relaxed mood

and atmosphere that I have never
experienced beforeAs a result
of the training, I have met new
colleagues from nearby schools
that I can share information
with and ask for help whenever I
needthis is an opportunity to
share not only EMEP and extracurricular activities, but also in
some cases, personal problems
and other challenges.

Learn more about these tools!

Contact your Regional REPSSI Coordinator to ask about specialised PSS training in your area. You can also download training materials and manuals on these tools at www.repssi.org.

(quotations extracted from Bliss. 2009) For more information on EMEP see the end of this section.

46

Other useful
resources and
contact details

affected by HIV and AIDS.

4. Catholic Institute of Education(CIE). CIE has produced

materials on practical ways of handling conflict in schools,

bullying, child abuse and drug abuse amongst others.

For more information see www.cie.org.za

Contact details: killian@ukzn.ac.za

9. Luboto Library Project Annual report, 2007, Zambia
The Lubuto Library Project is an innovative initiative

1. Balkwill, 2005. You, Me & HIV. Cold Spring Harbour Press, US

This book provides scientifically accurate information

5. EMEP: information about creating schools

in patnership with government aimed at creating

opportunities for equitable education and poverty

as community hubs

reduction through providing model library services.

For more information see www.emep.org.za.

The libraries provide safe havens, literacy skills, and

about HIV and AIDS, the immune system, prevention and

treatment and ways of supporting people with HIV/AIDS.

6. Flanagan, W. 2003. I am HIV- Positive. Heinemann.

opportunities for educational growth, discovery and joy

It is accompanied by an educators guide which includes a

Johannesburg

through reading and enrichment programs for OVC. The

range of participatory activities to use with children and

This book tells the story of a young girl who is HIV positive

project also connects African students with volunteers &

adolescents.

and the challenges she faces and overcomes.

peers in other countries.

Contact details: elenicoromvli@iconnect.zm; www.lubuto.org

Contact details: Linzi Rabinowitz at lrab@polka.co.za

7. HIVAN. 2007. HIV/AIDS, Childrens Resource Book Series,
2. Boler, T. (2008) Strengthening the role of schools as

centres of care and support. Power point presentation

3. Childrens Rights Centre. 2007. My Living Positively

No 1. HIVAN

10. Mallman, S. 2002. Building Resiliency. Catholic Aids Action.

This resource was created by a group of children living

Namibia.

with HIV and AIDS. It covers the following topics-

The book is aimed at caregivers and educators. It supplies

diagnosis, disclosure, treatment, adherence and nutrition

information and practical ideas about a wide range of

hand-book. Jacana Media. Johannesburg

Contact details: HIVAN, The Centre for HIV/AIDS

topics including resilience, the impact of HIV and AIDS,

This resource is a workbook for children living with HIV

Networking, admin@hivan.org.za.

children with specific reactions to loss, severe reactions and

childrens rights. The revised edition of this book is called

and AIDS. It addresses a number of topics including HIV

transmission, understanding HIV, how to live positively,

8. Killian, B.J., Schoeman, R. & Hough, A.2002. Sensitisation

Building Resilience in Children Affected by HIV/AIDS.

how to take medicines, talking about HIV, discrimination

Programme for community caregivers to help children

Contact details: It can be downloaded from the Family Health

and adherence

affected by HIV/AIDS, poverty and violence. Unpublished

International website, www.fhi.org as well as from Catholic

Contact details for Childrens Right Centre 031 307-6075,

manual. UKZN, Pietermaritzburg Campus.

Aids Action at www.caa.org.na.

website: www.childrensrightcentre.co.za and email address

This unpublished manual provides detailed descriptions of

info@crc-sa.co.za.

specific psychosocial support topics relevant to children

47

11. Madoerin. K .2008.Mobilising children & youth into their

12. MiET (Media In Education Trust) 2009. Schools as Centres

success and includes exercises and discussion topics. It is

aimed at high school learners.

of Care and Support Tool Kit. It

Own child- and youth-led organisations. REPSSI.

Johannesburg

The tool kit consists of ten stories which describes the

This publication explores child- and youth-led

members of a school community as they set themselves

15. Ramsden,N & Vawda,C. 2007. You and Your Child with

organisations from many different angles. What is also

up as centres of care and support and assist vulnerable

perhaps distinctive about the approach outlined in this

children in their community. The tool kit also includes

This book is aimed at caregivers of children living with

booklet is the fact that organisation of children into their

additional resources such as a flannel board and a set of

HIV. It includes medical information related to testing,

own child- and youth-led organisations is considered

30 characters to be used with the stories, posters, healthy

treatment, living positively and referral contacts. The

primarily from a psychosocial wellbeing perspective.

living curriculum materials for educators and learners and

Childrens Rights Centre has other resources specifically

Child-led associations can develop social awareness

Soul City materials on accessing grants, living positively

addressed to children living with HIV and AIDS.

and organisational skills in children. They also empower

with HIV and AIDS, and caring for someone with HIV or

Contact details for Childrens Right Centre 031 307-6075,

children by giving them a voice in their own affairs and

AIDS. It also includes two additional MIET publications,

website - www.childrensrightcentre.co.za and email address

can be especially powerful in advocacy efforts. They are

First Aid First and HIV positive.

info@crc-sa.co.za.

especially important for developing the personal and

Contact details: The tool kit and other useful materials may be

interpersonal (psychosocial) skills of marginalised children.

downloaded from www.miet.co.za

HIV - Living Positively. Childrens Right Centre

16. REPSSI. 2007. Psychosocial care and support for young

children and infants in the time of HIV and Aids: a resource for

Examples of these psychosocial or life-skills include trust,

communication, conflict-resolution, HIV-prevention and

13. Mwape, G. K, Kafula, H & Musonda V. T. 2006. Tool kit for

programming. REPSSI. Johannesburg.

teamwork. Child-led associations also help to protect

Establishing Class & School Councils. University of Zambia.

Outlines the importance of psychosocial care and support.

children from abuse through strength in numbers. While

Lusaka

It also provides specific guidelines for addressing issues at

the publication draws heavily on and focuses on the

This toolkit is aimed at school children. It highlights the

family-, community- and household-level for babies and

experience of a single child- and youth-led organisation in

issues that directly affect them .

young children.

Tanzania (VSI), additional chapters refer to other lessons

Contact details: kasubamwape@gmail.com.

www.repssi.org.

learned by other child- and youth-led organisations across

Southern and Eastern Africa.
Contact details: www.repssi.org

This resource can be downloaded from the REPSSI website:

14. Mwantmbe, C. 2008. Success is a Journey Not a

Destination: Sharing with Youth the true meaning of success.
Book World publishers. Lusaka
This book focuses on the life histories of successful
Zambians. It highlights the key life skills that are vital for

48

17. REPSSI . 2007. Making a Hero Book. REPSSI. Johannesburg.

20. REPSSI. 2008. Memory Work Manual. REPSSI.

22. REPSSI. Kids Club Manual. 2008. REPSSI. Johannesburg

Johannesburg.

Kids Clubs (KCs) are organised, regular meetings of

therapies to help the child strengthen his/her resilience

This manual explains how to use memory work in order to

children in a safe environment with the purpose of creating

and his/her circles of support. The method involves inviting

help people identify and reinforce the empowering parts

an environment which allows children to receive and

children to make a book in which they are the authors,

of the stories that make up their lives. It uses narrative and

give support and develop life skills. They are a low-cost

illustrators and main characters. Through the process of

art-therapy methods to establish a safe emotional space

intervention which mainly requires human effort and the

making their books, the children have the chance to find

in which to explore stories as a form of self-help or group

use of local resources in supporting children. Kids Clubs

new ways to deal with the challenges in their lives.

support. It is meant for caregivers rather than children

can be one part of a larger childcare program where the

This manual can be downloaded from the REPSSI website,

themselves. Anyone who wants to work creatively with his

KCs provide an opportunity to check-in on the children

www.repssi.org.

or her story can do memory work. One person, a parent

and identify specific needs. In some areas Kids Clubs

and child, a whole family or a group can make a memory

have been used as focal points for providing meals and

18. REPSSI. 2007. Living with X, A body mapping journey in

box or book. This manual will be useful for anyone who

distributing food parcels and other resources. Kids clubs

runs groups as part of their work.

may vary significantly and in many ways depending on

This resource uses art, narrative and solution-focused

the time of HIV/AIDS. REPSSI. Johannesburg.

Uses an arts-based approach to take people on a body-

This resource can be downloaded from the REPSSI website,

their purpose, the organization initiating them and the

mapping journey, in which stories about oneself and ones

www.repssi.org.

community and culture in which they are based.

This resource can be downloaded from the REPSSI website,

life can be explored. It can be used in many different ways.

It can be used to help people accept their HIV status,

21. REPSSI. 2007. Tree of Life. REPSSI. Johannesburg

www.repssi.org.

remember things from their lives and to find answers to

This is a psychosocial tool based on Narrative Therapy. It

the problems they face at present or in the future. The

is a tool which uses the image of the tree as a metaphor

23. REPSSI. 2008. Mainstreaming Psychosocial Care and Support

manual is aimed at adults but can be adapted for learners

to invite children to tell stories about their lives. It aims to

within Paediatric HIV and AIDS Treatment. REPSSI.

at school..

enable children to feel stronger and more hopeful about

Johannesburg

This resource can be downloaded from the REPSSI website,

their present and future lives. It allows children who have

This resource deals with the psychosocial issues related

www.repssi.org.

been affected by HIV and AIDS, poverty and conflict

to being affected by and infected with HIV and AIDS. It

to tell, hear and explore stories of loss without feeling

includes theory-to-practice cards on a range of topics

trapped by grief.

such as: dealing with loss, talking about a sensitive topic,

19. REPSSI, Hospaz and NZAid. 2007. Weaving Hope for

Our Children, HBC as an entry point for enhancing PSS

This resource can be downloaded from the REPSSI website,

care and support for children affected by HIV and AIDS.

www.repssi.org.

disclosure, adherence and how to set up a support group.

This resource can be downloaded from the REPSSI website,
www.repssi.org.

REPSSI. Johannesburg.

49

In addition, it offers case studies, indicators and outcomes

24. Rudolph. N et al. 2008. How to build a caring school

related to Child-friendly schools.

community. Childrens Institute, University of Cape Town

and the South African Democratic Teachers Union.

Contact details: UNICEF http://www.unicef.org/southafrica

This resource offers practical participatory steps towards

creating a vision for a caring school. It covers topics

28. UNICEF. 2009. Testimonies on Child Friendly Schools from

such as: childrens rights, guidelines for facilitators, and a

the field. United Nations Childrens Fund, South Africa

This resource documents the progress of some 65 schools

comprehensive list of useful resources

Contact details. Childrens Institute and the Caring Schools

in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa as they

Project. Tel.:+27 (021) 689 8343 and visit www.ci.org.za

work towards transforming themselves into Child Friendly

Schools. These case studies present difficult circumstances

25 Soul City. 2003,HIV and AIDS affect all children.

and challenges. They are inspiring and reveal the different

Jacana Media. Johannesburg

aspects of PSS as well as ways of enhancing the quality of

Soul City offers a wide range of health related booklets

education for all.

including topics such as HIV/AIDS, social grants, health

lifestyle issues. Booklets are aimed at young people,

29. UNICEF, Ministry of Education & Faweza (2004),

parents, health care workers and teachers.

Guidelines for Re-entry policy. Printed by UNICEF

Contact details:0860115000, website www.soulcity.org.za

30. UNICEF Swaziland (nd). Schools as centres of care and
26. UNESCO, Section on HIV and AIDS Division for the

support: UNICEF Annual Report 2006 Swaziland

http://www.unicef.org/swaziland/sz_

Coordination of UN Priorities in Education

publications_2006annualreport.pdf accessed on 9 June

27. UNICEF. 2008. Implementation Guidelines - Safe and

2009

Caring child-friendly Schools in South Africa

This resource provides both a theoretical as well a

31. Working group of the UNAIDS Inter-agency Task Team

practical framework for achieving quality education for

on Education and HIV/AIDS (nd ) The Role of Education

the achievement of the holistic needs of all learners. It also

in the Protection, Care and Support of Orphans and

offers a self assessment tool to assist schools in evaluating

Vulnerable Children Living in a World with HIV and AIDS

itself against 6 key characteristics of a child-friendly school.

50

Tracking your progress

Organisational assessment

After about six months or one year, it is helpful to re-assess

PSS mainstreaming is not a once-off activity. Rather, it is an

Here is a quick assessment tool to check your progress with

the way you have mainstreamed PSS. This is done to see

ongoing process where all organisations can improve their PSS

PSS mainstreaming. Tick the boxes in the right hand corner of

whether your PSS focus is growing to meet the needs of all

focus. PSS is also a rapidly developing sector and one can keep

each row to show which level you feel you have reached.

children and their families.

updating oneself on the latest ideas and tools available.

Organisational Focus
Area

1.
Linking

Limited PSS Focus

We do not do much referral and linking
with specialised PSS services or other
organisations supporting specific needs of
children and families.

Emerging PSS Focus

We refer severe cases for specialised PSS

assistance.

Innovative & Extensive PSS Focus

We meet often with other organisations focusing on PSS and

on particular needs of children and families. We invite them
to run programmes in our school and we refer children with
special needs to them for assistance.

2.
School Functioning
& Policies

The school does not focus much on PSS and

there are no guiding policies.

We do make use of some PSS principles and refer

to these in the design of policies.

Our school functions around PSS principles and there are

clear policies promoting PSS at all levels.

3.
Curriculum, teaching
methods & tools

Not much use is made of PSS methods and

tools in our teaching. Our curriculum does
not include a focus on PSS topics.

Some PSS methods and tools are used, but these

are a bit outdated or used now and then.

We use learner-friendly PSS methods and tools. We consult

learners and caregivers about their PSS needs and include
these topics in our curriculum.

4.
Skills & knowledge

Very few educators have an understanding of

PSS.

Some educators have a solid understanding of

PSS and guide others in the organisation.

All educators have a basic understanding of PSS and there

are specialised staff to support others in their PSS work.

51

Assessing different aspects of our school functioning

Using the example of the school that has mainstreamed PSS into all aspects of their functioning, we can ask the following questions
to track our progress in more detail.

Focus Area

Questions About PSS Programming

Do all the educators in your school have a basic understanding of PSS?

Educators
knowledge
& attitudes
Learners
supporting
one another
Involvement
of caregivers
and the school
community

Do the educators in your school deal with all learners in a respectful way that builds their dignity?
Do the educators in your school deal with all the adult caregivers or parents in a respectful way that builds their dignity?
Do educators know what the needs of the learners are and what particular difficulties they may be facing?

Do you encourage learners to support one another and encourage empathy and care towards one another?
Do you have classroom sessions and tools to promote respect and empathy towards one another?
Do you have a peer support programme?
Do you regularly consult caregivers about their ideas for the school?
Do you give feedback to caregivers about their learners progress?
Do you invite members of the school community to give presentations and be involved in the school?
Do you identify learners whose health and wellbeing are at risk and makes sure that the learners get the care and attention they need?
Do you identify learners who are out of school or missing school and link them to a source of help so that they can attend school regularly?
Do you refer learners with specialised needs to NGOs, CBOs and government departments who are able to provide expert assistance
or material assistance where needed?

PSS support

Do you help families with applying for grants/bursaries?

Do you have a school garden and school nutrition programme so that learners can learn to grow their own food as well as to have
access to nutritious meals?
Do you disseminate information on HIV and AIDS and other important matters such as child-abuse, positive discipline, child-safety,
girl-child education etc.?
Do you raise funds to assist learners who are in need?

52

Yes/No/ Sometimes

Concluding remarks

Throughout these guidelines, the emphasis has been on

also relies on the vitality and creativity of the human spirit

creating nurturing and caring schools. This may take place at

to work to transform difficult circumstances against all odds

many different levels including:

and achieve worthwhile goals and visions. We recognise that

the model of care that the school embraces

mainstreaming PSS is not an easy task. It requires a consistent

the school policies in relation to psychosocial support

effort from all stakeholders involved. We hope that these

the focus on educators as primary sources of psychosocial

guidelines will assist you in this important and ongoing process

and that you will be inspired to learn from others as well as

support

drawing upon the resources of learners and parents to

celebrate your own successes along the way.

promote psychosocial wellbeing

facilitating special projects to address specific psychosocial

issues

making use of the rich diversity of tools available to

facilitate psychosocial wellbeing.

It is our hope that this guide has demonstrated the

importance of psychosocial support and the many different
ways in which it can be put into practice. It does not matter
in the end which terminology and/or approach you decide to
use in your school. Mainstreaming PSS is best understood as
a commitment to putting learners holistic needs first through
strengthening and identifying existing resources within the
school community at large. The principles of PSS rely on the
natural and universal desire to create vibrant, meaningful
and healthy learning environments for all of our children. It

53

References

1. Bliss,S. 2009. Internal report for EMEP. Cape Town

7. REPSSI. 2007. Psychosocial Care and Support for young

children and infants in the time of HIV and AIDS. REPSSI.

2. Killian, B.J., Schoeman, R. & Hough, A. (2002).

unpublished manuscript. Bernard Van Leer Foundation

Johannesburg
14. Robertson. 2008. Childrens Well being, Vulnerability and

Sensitisation Programme for community caregivers to

help children affected by HIV/AIDS, poverty and violence.

13. Richter, L. 2006. Where the heart is. Draft version 3 of the

8. REPSSI. 2007. Psychosocial care and support for young

Mental Health in the Context of HIV/AIDS in Low

Unpublished manual. UKZN, Pietermaritzburg Campus.

children and infants in the time of HIV and AIDS. REPSSI:

Income Areas. Presentation made to REPSSI Partnership

This unpublished manual provides detailed sessions on

Johannesburg

Consultative Development Forum, Benoni

specific psychosocial support topics relevant to children

affected by HIV and AIDS.

9. REPSSI and Olive Leaf Foundation. 2008a. Facilitating

Care and Support through Kids Clubs
10. REPSSI. 2008 b. Mainstreaming Psychosocial Care and
Support within Paediatric HIV and AIDS Treatment. REPSSI:

4. MiET. 2008. Unpublished Internal working documents.

Africa
11. REPSSI, Hospaz and Nzaid. 2008. Weaving Hope for our

for Children. Draft 2 of an unpublished manuscript.

Children: Home Based Care as an Entry Point for

Psychosocial Care and Support for Children affected by
HIV and AIDS.

6. Rabinowitz. L. 2009. An evaluation of using hero books to

mainstream Psychosocial Care and Support into the
National Curricula. REPSSI website

16. UNICEF. 2009. Testimonies on Child Friendly Schools

from the field. United Nations Childrens Fund. South

Johannesburg

MiET. Durban
5. OCarroll, S. 2009. Early Literacy Intervention Programme

Caring Child friendly Schools in South Africa. United

Nation Childrens Fund. South Africa

3. Mallman, S. 2002. Building resilience among children

affected by HIV/AIDS. Catholic Aids Action. Namibia

15. UNICEF. 2008. Implementation Guidelines-Safe and

12. REPSSI.2008. Mainstreaming Psychosocial Care and

Support within Economic Strengthening Programmes. REPSSI:
Johannesburg

54

REPSSI are the copyright holders of the Mainstreaming Psychosocial Care and Support within the Education Sector
manual. Along with everyone who has helped to produce this manual, we want to share it freely and widely. We hope
that you will join us in sharing this method in a respectful and productive way. To encourage this kind of sharing we
have decided to extend the copyright of this manual using the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0
License so that it can reach as many people as possible. The terms of this license are:

You Are Free :

To Share to copy, distribute and transmit this manual.

Under the following conditions

Attribution. You must attribute this manual to REPSSI with the words: Mainstreaming Psychosocial Care and Support within the Education Sector manual
was originally authored by REPSSI. Copyright REPSSI.

Non-commercial. You may not use the Mainstreaming Psychosocial Care and Support within the Education Sector manual for any commercial purpose
whatsoever.

Derivative Works.
We encourage organisations to translate this manual into other languages, and / or print additional large quantities for distribution and use, but request
that they contact us first. We are prepared to make high-resolution files freely available for this purpose.
Similarly we understand that the manual might have to be adapted for use in different contexts. However, for quality control purposes, and to ensure
that no harm is done, we ask you to please be in contact with us around any changes you might want to make.
We hope you will be in touch with any questions, comments, suggestions and stories. REPSSI, PO Box 1669, Randburg, 2125, South Africa,
tel +27 11 998 5820, email, knowledge@repssi.org

55

978-0-9814416-4-1

www.repssi.org
58