CREATING AN INCLUSIVE LEARNING COMMUNITY
the social pedagogy development network
A free grassroots community of practice for anyone inspired by social pedagogy.
AT A GLANCE
Founded: 2009
Cost: Free to join
Community: 1,200+ members
Co-ordinated by: ThemPra, SPPA and the Global Alliance
about the network
a community shaping social pedagogy together
The Social Pedagogy Development Network (SPDN) is a grassroots movement we co-founded in 2009 to bring together practitioners, students, managers and academics who share a passion for social pedagogy and want to be part of shaping what it means in a UK context. It is free to join, free to participate in and run on social pedagogical principles, which means it is open, democratic and owned by its community.
Since its founding, the SPDN has grown to include more than 1,200 members across the UK and internationally, drawn together by a shared sense that social pedagogy offers something genuinely important for people and communities. Through the SPDN you will find people who have been on similar journeys, who can offer peer support and inspiration, and who are committed to making a difference.
🌱
FREE · OPEN TO ALL
free to join
There is no cost to join or take part. Whether you are new to social pedagogy or have years of experience, you are welcome.
🤝
OPEN · DIALOGICAL
run on social pedagogical principles
The network is shaped by the people in it. Everyone’s contribution matters, and events are designed to encourage dialogue rather than one-way presentations.
💬
PEER SUPPORT
a community of practice
Connect with others on similar journeys, share ideas and practice, and find inspiration and support for bringing social pedagogy to life in your own context.
spdn events
how we come together
The SPDN has evolved over time, with typically two events each year that bring together people from across the social pedagogy community, either in person or online.
Rather than focus on bigger events, we are currently trying to create more regular opportunities to stay connected online through shorter webinars.
NEXT SPDN EVENT
details coming soon
Our next SPDN event details will be announced here and via our newsletter. Sign up below to be the first to hear.
partnership
who organises it
The SPDN is co-ordinated by ThemPra in partnership with the Social Pedagogy Professional Association (SPPA) and the Global Alliance for Social Pedagogy and Social Education.
CO-ORDINATOR
ThemPra Social Pedagogy
We co-founded the SPDN in 2009 and continue to co-ordinate the network, its events and its communications.
PARTNER
Global Alliance for Social Pedagogy and Social Education
A free, non-hierarchical global movement connecting people and organisations who share a commitment to social pedagogy and social education.
PARTNER
Social Pedagogy Professional Association
SPPA is the professional home for social pedagogy in the UK and Ireland, supporting standards, qualifications and professional recognition.
We have previously worked with Jacaranda Development, Treehouse Associates and the Centre for Understanding Social Pedagogy at the UCL Institute of Education.
JOIN THE SPDN
become part of the community
Joining the SPDN is free and takes a moment. You will receive regular updates about events, resources and activities, and become part of a network of people committed to social pedagogy across the UK and beyond.