Early grade teachers’ professional development programs for promoting school safety: Does it make a difference?

Abstract

This study explored the influence of training on helping teachers to promote greater school safety. A qualitative case study design was adopted, and 213 early grade teachers from Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar took part in the study. Data were gathered through individual semi-structured interviews before being thematically analysed. It was evident that teachers were inadequately prepared in terms of autonomy and supportive communication to help their pupils develop crucial skills for creating a safe learning environment. In- service professional development programs related to social and emotional learning would enhance teachers’ ability to support their pupils to address school safety concerns.