Professional development and training of specialists in the social sphere within the system of additional professional education in the Republic of Tatarstan

The research problem and the rationale for its relevance. The article discusses the main directions and outcomes of the work of the Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Social Protection in the Republic of Tatarstan regarding training and professional development of social sector specialists to work with various categories of citizens who require socio-educational support and assistance. The fast-changing world requires a new behavioral strategy and skills of adaptation to new socio-economic conditions for all modern people, but especially the most vulnerable: children and the elderly, including children with disabilities and the elderly with disabilities. The goal of the research is to show the possibilities of the modern system of additional professional education for social workers and teachers of the Republic of Tatarstan in the field of their professional formation, development and improvement. Examples of training activities such as seminars, workshops, and games are provided. Competence-based, personalized approaches and the principles of continuity, variability, and personalization were chosen as the methodological foundations for this research. Through research, we were able to achieve significant scientific and practical outcomes. The scientific outcomes include the development and implementation of a regional model for training and advanced training for managers and specialists in organizations providing social services in the area of social protection for the population. This model includes training and ongoing professional development for personnel in the field of social services for families and children. The practical results include continuous methodological support and the development of the professional level of specialists through the organization of “supportive” training. This training is based on all types of additional professional education and other training activities for social workers, social educators, psychologists, and heads of departments providing social assistance to families, children, and adolescents in social service centers and shelters.