The programme aims to prepare future specialists and develop the skills at working with children and families of current specialists. The students have an opportunity to acquire a wide range of knowledge, develop skills and study innovative methods/interventions applicable in working with specific groups of children which have been prevalent in Europe and Bulgaria for the last 15 years. The specific groups of children (and families) targeted by the programme are the following: children at risk of violence and neglect; children from children’s homes; children in conflict with the law; children, victims of trafficking, physical and sexual abuse; children involved in paid sexual services; with families of children and children with disabilities (physical, intellectual, mental); children, representatives of different ethnic groups and cultures (Roma children, refugees, etc.); children and families living in poverty; children of parents who work abroad; children with chronic diseases (eg HIV-positive children).

The programme is designed both for experienced social workers providing social services to children and families in the school and preschool education system, as well as for professionals from other areas motivated to develop skills in working with children at risk and managing services for children at risk. The students acquire knowledge and skills to apply the casework method. The focus of the instruction is on an internship with children and families at risk under professional supervision. During the internship, the students integrate the theories taught and acquire skills to assess, plan and implement interventions aimed at providing a safe environment for children in family and community life.

The instruction enables students to work in multidisciplinary teams, understand the dynamics of customer relations, understand and manage relationships in a multidisciplinary team, understand the philosophy and ethical standards of modern practices for working with children, acquire skills to apply in daily practice, use modern teaching methods, such as interactive methods, online discussions with professors and students from other European universities, participation in international webinars, use of online educational resources in the field of child protection and work with children at risk, as well as use their knowledge to ensure the quality of working with clients and to improve the professional environment. The students develop skills in managing team processes, interventions and mentoring in social work.