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Rotterdam | February 28, 2024

Hatice: 'It's nice when school can be a second home'

Hatice is a school social worker at a school in Rotterdam-West. She's the point of contact for families who need a little extra support. And there are quite a few of them at the school. Hatice makes it possible for children to play sports, dance, or take music lessons, even if there's no money at home.. 

When I speak to her, Hatice has only just graduated. "I've only just started working here; this is my first official job," she says enthusiastically.I'm thrilled to be able to help parents by submitting an application to the Youth Fund for them. I work at a multicultural school with a mix of challenges. Many families have financial worries, which can lead to all sorts of problems. Children come to me with behavioral issues and performance anxiety, for example. Or they're struggling with a new home situation due to a divorce, which means they see one parent much less. I also support parents with issues related to parenting and growing up.  

I knew right away that I wanted this

Hatice did an internship in school social work during her studies, which motivated her to make it her career. “I knew right away that this was what I wanted. Also because I've always enjoyed being at school and learning. I love being able to offer children a safe school environment, especially when things are difficult at home. Then it's nice that school is a kind of second home. I see that I can make a difference in children's lives. That gives me a lot of satisfaction. My thesis was about how school social workers can promote the emotional well-being of refugee children in transition classes. This school also has a transition class with refugee children. That's a group that needs a different kind of attention. There are language barriers that make it difficult. I want children to feel comfortable at school. I want it to be a safe environment.”  

Life lessons

I've already received several requests, and I see the impact it has on children when they can participate in sports or dance. Sports and culture are tools that make life more enjoyable. You can unwind, forget about anything for a while. You can forget your worries for a while. It's about having fun, doing something together with other children. It's also something children talk about. Like winning a football match at the weekend. For me, it's also a good way to easily connect with a child and build trust. I get to know them and understand what they enjoy. That way, I know better how to help them. When you ask people who were important in their childhood, they often mention their teacher or sports coach. They're key figures who not only teach you how to play football, math, or piano, but also impart life lessons that will benefit you later in life. 

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