European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

The practice of school social work in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has existed for several years. Established in 1954, the Administration of Education and Social Activities under the Ministry of Education (MOE), has since this time, undergone numerous transformations that have affected the level and effectiveness of the practice. This study aims to explain the practice of social workers in Saudi Arabia schools and how social workers perform their duties. In achieving this aim, a qualitative approach was adopted where participants were divided into two focus groups. The data collected were analysed manually in six stages, as suggested by Creswell (1998), Yin (1998) and Meriam (2008). Social workers perform their duties using a variety of skills to solve problems and communicate with school personnel, students, and parents. They also apply strategies in dealing with situations inside the school. However, the data collected via the focus groups revealed that social workers were required to take on many extra tasks that were not within the scope of their job description, which affected their performance and overall effectiveness. Accordingly, this study recommends that a deeper understanding of the present level and conditions surrounding the work efficiency of professionals and decision-makers should be considered in light of removing existing obstacles that hinder the social workers from performing their responsibilities