Reflective Insights from the 2022 Heart of Frontline Practice Seminar: Connecting and Relating in Diverse Settings
Event Highlights:
- Joan Fletcher’s Inclusion Workshop: Independent Social Worker and Psychotherapist Joan Fletcher led a compelling session titled “From eggshells to allyship,” focusing on fostering inclusive cultures through critical conversations about race and diversity. Her extensive experience in social work education enriched the discussion, providing actionable insights for promoting equality in frontline settings.
- Dr. Tom A. Hutchinson’s Communication Techniques: Dr. Hutchinson shared valuable lessons on “Communication in professional relationships,” drawing from the work of Virginia Satir to emphasize the difference between curing and healing. His session included practical exercises to help participants understand and apply effective communication stances in their work.
- Nickie Egan’s Approach to Child Behaviour: Principal Nickie Egan from North Presentation Primary School spoke on “Be curious instead of furious,” exploring how understanding underlying factors in a child’s behavior can enhance compassionate and effective engagement.
‘Be curious instead of furious’
A child’s behaviour is a communication of what lies beneath or inside. Everyone has the capacity and ability to show care, compassion and to nurture. Everyone has the ability to be that “One Good Adult”. Everyone can make a difference.
Seminar Structure: The seminar was structured into morning and afternoon sessions, featuring interactive plenary discussions and breakout spaces designed to enhance reflective practice among participants. The hybrid format ensured accessibility for all, allowing attendees to join from anywhere while engaging with the content actively.
CPD Certification: This seminar is part of a series of CPD-approved initiatives by the Heart of Practice collaborative group, aimed at supporting frontline workers in maintaining and enhancing their professional skills through focused educational experiences.
Looking Forward: As the seminar concluded, participants left with renewed inspiration to apply their learnings in their diverse professional environments, furthering the seminar’s goal of enhancing the physical, psychological, emotional, and relational aspects of frontline work.
