Training for educators from AWANS boarding facilities in Kielce – how to build a safe and open space for young people

On 11 May 2026, a training session for several educators was held at the “Bartek” Student Dormitory in Kielce, focusing on building a safe, open and welcoming space for students from different countries and cultures.

The meeting was organised for staff who work with young people in a multicultural environment on a daily basis. The activities were also inspired by the idea of the “Friendly School” programme, which promotes integration, strengthens the wellbeing of the school community and helps prevent exclusion in the educational environment.

The training was conducted by Dr Katarzyna Krzystanek, a psychologist, who drew attention to the challenges related to the functioning of young people in a culturally diverse school, educational and peer environment.

Counteracting stereotypes, prejudice and exclusion

During the workshop, educators discussed the mechanisms behind the emergence of stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination. An important part of the meeting was the analysis of situations in which young people may experience exclusion, peer isolation, psychological violence or difficulties related to adapting to a new environment.

The training participants also discussed ways of responding to difficult social situations and practical methods of strengthening a sense of safety, respect and acceptance within the group. Particular attention was paid to intercultural communication and the role of educators in recognising tensions and preventing conflicts.

The multicultural environment of AWANS schools and boarding facilities

The subject of the training was particularly important for the community of AWANS schools in Kielce, where most students are foreigners, mainly young people from Ukraine. The Non-public AWANS Boarding Facility is also home primarily to children and young people from different countries, including a large number from Ukraine.

Such a diverse environment creates a great opportunity for mutual learning about cultures, developing social competences and building attitudes of openness. At the same time, it requires particular sensitivity, attentiveness and the ability to respond to the needs of young people who often face the experience of migration, a change of environment, adaptation stress or a sense of alienation.

Practical tools for educators

During the training, the importance of everyday, attentive educational work was emphasised. Participants learned about practical tools supporting intercultural communication, responding to signs of exclusion and building an atmosphere based on mutual respect and safety.

The meeting also became a space for exchanging experiences and reflecting on how to effectively support young people in the process of adaptation, integration and building positive relationships with their peers.

Thanks to the project “Increasing the level of wellbeing of the school community in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship”, Integration Europe – East Association was able to support teaching and educational staff working every day with foreign students in the school boarding facilities of the AWANS Education Centre in Kielce.