Training Workshop for Field Supervisors Enhances Field Placement Quality in BSW and MSW Programmes

A Training Workshop for Field Supervisors involved in the Field Placement components of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) degree programmes conducted by the School of Social Work was successfully held on 25th October 2025 at the Thalawa Regional Training Centre of the National Institute of Social Development (NISD), and again on 1st November 2025 at the National Institute of Social Development, Seeduwa, under the patronage of the Director General, Senior Prof. Premakumara de Silva.

The event was graced by the presence of Mrs. Gowri Vasudevan, Additional Director General of the Institute; Mr. V. Jeyaruban, Director of the School of Social Work; Senior Lecturer Mrs. Manjula Wijesekera; Field Coordinators, Lecturers Mr. Janaka Bandara, Mr. Indika Sanjeewa, and Mr. Thavarasa Tharsan; as well as Lecturers Ms. Subodini Herath and Mr. Kalindu Rathnayaka, together with the non-academic staff of the School of Social Work.

The main objective of the training programme was to enhance the supervisory skills and professional competence of field supervisors who guide social work students during their field placements. It aimed to strengthen collaboration between the NISD and field agencies, ensuring that students receive high-quality practical training aligned with academic standards and professional social work ethics.

The programme focused on several key areas, including the roles and responsibilities of field supervisors, effective supervision techniques, assessment and evaluation of students’ field performance, and ethical challenges in field education. Sessions also covered best practices in social work supervision, student support strategies, and methods of integrating theory into practice.

Interactive discussions, group activities, and experience-sharing sessions encouraged supervisors to reflect on their current supervisory approaches and explore new strategies for improving the learning experience of social work students. The training also provided a platform for networking among supervisors, field coordinators, and academic staff, fostering stronger partnerships for future field education initiatives.

Participants highly appreciated the programme, noting that it enriched their understanding of effective supervision and the importance of maintaining high professional standards in guiding social work students. The event concluded with a commitment to continue such collaborative efforts to further develop the quality and effectiveness of field education in both the BSW and MSW programmes at NISD.