Social pedagogy involves the use of a relationship-based approach, with the aim of combining academic knowledge and an understanding of emotions in the context of hands-on practical work. Non-traditional teaching approaches and creative, experimental tasks are encouraged to help tutors when working with children.

Social pedagogy is a concept lots of social workers have probably heard of, but many might be uncertain about what it entails in practice with children and other service users. A new module we developed (supported by a Lancashire county council colleague who had experience from a national pilot) brought together undergraduate social work students, looked after young people and residential childcare staff to share a social pedagogy learning experience as peers. Although just one module, the outcomes suggest the focus on relationships and sense of equality could become a beneficial aspect of social work training.

Social pedagogy is well-established within social work in western Europe; although the term has been known in the UK for some years, it is not widely practised. Social pedgagoy uses a relationship-based approach and aims to combine academic knowledge and an understanding of emotions in the context of hands-on practical work – ‘a holistic humanistic approach’ (Gabriel Eichsteller). It encourages non-traditional teaching approaches and creative, experimental tasks.