The city methodological association in the city education system: new forms of training and opportunities for advanced training for teachers

The research problem and the rationale for its relevance. In the context of rapidly evolving education systems, new demands are being placed on educators working in supplementary education institutions. This situation has made professional development particularly relevant for teachers in creative disciplines. Contemporary methodological associations offer opportunities to acquire new professional knowledge, skills, and competencies. Alongside traditional support mechanisms such as information sharing, methodological assistance, and organizational support, these methodological associations focus on refining and implementing innovative teaching approaches. Practical workshops and seminars dedicated to these methods form the foundation of professional growth for creative educators, helping them develop essential practical competencies. The city's methodological association trains teachers in utilizing modern information systems and technologies within the educational process. Mastering these new competencies enables educators to modernize instruction, teach information literacy, and prepare students for life in a digital society. The association also introduces teachers to recent developments in pedagogy, developmental psychology, and related social sciences. Through these initiatives, participants engage with leading scholars, education specialists, school administrators, and fellow teachers. This collaboration frequently results in educational projects where the methodological association serves as either mediator or active participant. The professional development program provides educators with opportunities for public speaking, academic publishing, and earns them certifications that validate their newly acquired expertise. This research analyzes the work of the methodological association operating at the Municipal Budgetary Educational Institution of Supplementary Education “Palace of Children's Creativity” in Pyatigorsk. The goal of research is to systematize the professional development approaches implemented through urban methodological associations and develop recommendations for enhancing regional systems of supplementary vocational education. Methodology. The study employs axiological, systemic, and activity-based methodological approaches, supplemented by document analysis and materials from the methodological association's digital resources. Results. The article concludes that methodological associations are pioneering innovative training formats that effectively enhance teachers' professional qualifications while contributing to the advancement of regional supplementary vocational education systems.