Support Staff at General Compulsory Schools

The state of Carinthia provides, within the framework of an open-ended agreement with the association Kinderfreunde Kärnten, a continuous funding volume totaling €1.6 million nationwide to position qualified school social workers at general compulsory schools. The aim of this measure is the sustainable establishment of school social work to promote educational equity, equal opportunities, and social participation for all students. By providing expert personnel, existing inequalities in educational access are to be balanced and individual development potentials strengthened. The cooperation between the Office of the Carinthian State Government, Department 6 – Education and Sports, and the Kinderfreunde regional association forms the organizational and legal foundation for a professionally supported implementation starting January 1, 2025.

Non-profit sponsoring organizations are not directly eligible to apply, as the funding is granted exclusively through the association Kinderfreunde Kärnten in accordance with the contractual agreement. For general compulsory schools in Carinthia, the initiative addresses the need for low-threshold, school-based psychosocial support and thus makes a significant contribution to strengthening the personal development of children and adolescents. The funding can be accessed indefinitely from January 1, 2025, ensuring long-term planning and continuity in social work. Interested schools and educational partners are encouraged to inquire about further cooperation opportunities through internal procedures with the responsible Kinderfreunde regional association.