Examining the Challenges Faced by School Social Workers in Selected Township Schools in City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality

An NPO Perspective

Abstract

School social workers are essential in the educational environment, particularly because they work beyond the purview of social welfare initiatives. Yet they encounter challenges which limit delivery of school social work services. This small-scale study aims to explore challenges school social workers encounter while attempting to carry out social welfare activities in schools. A qualitative approach was utilised alongside the case study design for the study. A purposive sampling technique from a sample of school social workers at an Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) was used. Data was obtained through semi-structured interviews utilising an interview guide, a total of five social workers from an NPO and one vice principal was used for the study. The study's results, which were derived from a thematic analysis of the data gathered, showed that school social workers in township schools encounter a number of difficulties, including a lack of resources, a heavy workload, systemic fragmentation, and a lack of knowledge about their roles in the educational environment. The findings of the study further highlighted how school social worker receive limited support, only relying on community involvement and sometimes school districts. Through the interviews, some recommendations from participants highlighted the need for additional funding aimed at first employing more school based social workers and funding towards resources for effective implementation of social welfare initiatives. Reforming policies between the Department of Basic Education and the Department of Social Development and institutionalizing school social work were also emphasized by the findings.  In addition to challenging the governing mechanisms, the study's recommendations will help school social workers effectively handle problems and deliver their services.