The Siófok School District Centre is committed to providing children with special educational needs with the highest possible standard of professional support and opportunities for development. This commitment is reflected in the project “Being Different, Living the Same Life,” which was implemented with European Union funding in a municipality of Somogy County.
The aim of this comprehensive professional programme was to strengthen the work of institutions supporting children with severe and multiple disabilities, to develop the competencies of families, and to promote social acceptance and an inclusive mindset. Particular emphasis was placed on improving pedagogical specialist services and reinforcing the network of travelling special education teachers and conductors, with special attention to reducing regional inequalities.
Over the course of the 30-month project, a series of interconnected professional activities were carried out. Participating institutions implemented methodological developments and organised professional events and training programmes to support the holistic development of students with severe and multiple disabilities. Infocommunication tools, including interactive whiteboards, were procured to enhance communication skills, cognitive abilities, fine motor skills and social interaction.
Special focus was given to renewing methodologies in motor skills development. Professionally developed materials targeting gross motor development, together with the acquisition of modern movement-development equipment, help increase children’s physical independence and contribute to the prevention of secondary health complications resulting from physical impairments.
Professional renewal was further supported through the continuous development of teachers’ and special education professionals’ expertise. Training courses, workshops and specialised programmes expanded their methodological toolkit, enabling more effective support for children with learning difficulties. Network-based cooperation was strengthened through professional meetings, classroom observations and knowledge-sharing workshops.
The programme also placed strong emphasis on involving and supporting families. Open days, training sessions and community programmes assisted parents in home-based development, experience sharing and building inclusive communities. In addition, awareness-raising activities and joint events helped foster acceptance and inclusion as natural values within children’s communities.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the project EFOP-3.1.6-16-2017-00039 under the Human Resource Development Operational Programme.
Find out more about the project in the Project Finder:Details
