Testimonial – Job Shadowing in Slovakia

Participating in the Erasmus+ mobility program was an incredibly enriching experience for me as
an Educational Psychologist. The hosting school in Partizanske was exceptionally welcoming and
eager to share their educational practices. Observing innovative teaching methods in literacy and
numeracy across different year groups provided valuable insights that I can now share with
teachers to enhance student learning. One striking element was the playful approach teachers
used to teach phonological awareness, language, literacy, and numeracy skills. Their methods
emphasised not only intellectual engagement but also emotional and social connections with
students. Classroom spaces were thoughtfully designed to prioritize teamwork, group activities,
and play.
Walking around the school, I felt a strong sense of community and safety. The school provided
quiet and relaxing areas where children could unwind, talk, and build connections. The
curriculum prioritised Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), ensuring that all students had
protected time to meet with the School Psychologist to develop their emotional literacy and selfawareness,
practice mindfulness, and engage in preventative programs like VNÍMAJKOVIA and
Second Step to help build positive relationships. These SEL practices were also implemented
daily by class teachers through Morning Circles, fostering a supportive and inclusive
environment.
Overall, this experience has significantly enriched my professional development, equipping me
with valuable strategies to support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth within our
schools.