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What is the heart of the school?

The heart of the school, mindfulness, compassion, school pedagogy

"Rediscovering the Heart of School" is an innovative project that places mindfulness and compassion at the centre of school pedagogy. The aim is to link these values with current and traditional educational topics and thus promote the personal and professional development of teachers.

The project offers various formats to support teachers in their pedagogical practice:

A wide range of programmes for a better school culture

The project offers various programmes such as the annual group, which enables teachers to reflect on their pedagogical practice from the perspective of mindfulness and compassion and to use their professional activity as a contribution to their personal growth. In nine monthly meetings during the school year, relevant topics are discussed, experiences are exchanged and pedagogical actions are reconsidered.

Other formats such as themed evenings with experts and discussion groups offer teachers the opportunity to exchange views on specific school pedagogy topics and gain valuable insights. The planned method kit also aims to provide teachers with comprehensive didactic qualifications in the areas of mindfulness and compassion.

Supporting teachers on their path to greater self-reflection and vigilance

The team behind "Rediscovering the heart of the school" consists of experienced educators and mindfulness trainers. The main people responsible include Dr Karlheinz Valtl, the founder and head of the project, as well as Kathrin Andrusko, BEd MSc, and Thomas Macho, Dipl.-Ing. They all have many years of experience in pedagogy and mindfulness training and offer teachers support on their way to a reflective and mindful approach in everyday school life.

The pedagogical principles of the project are based on the integration of mindfulness and compassion into school pedagogy. These approaches promote the physical and mental health of pupils and teachers, improve attention and strengthen emotional regulation. A central aim of the project is to positively influence the school culture and climate by strengthening the school as a living space for pupils and teachers. This leads to more harmonious interaction and creates a better learning environment.

"Rediscovering the Heart of School" thus offers a holistic approach that aims to sustainably improve the quality of education through the integration of mindfulness and compassion. Teachers are provided with tools and methods to reflect on and develop their pedagogical practice, which ultimately benefits the students.

#schongenial the endeavour to improve the learning environment for students and teachers alike. A little more mindfulness, recognition and respect can work wonders. Doesn't cost much, actually nothing at all. Already genial.

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