Kintsugi in the Classroom - The Art of Seeing Strength Beyond Struggle

 

 

 

 

 

Bee Ready Series - Behaviour

Kintsugi in the Classroom - The Art of Seeing Strength Beyond Struggle

The philosophy of Kintsugi (the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold) is a beautiful metaphor for the work of a Special Needs Assistant. Rather than trying to “fix” children, Kintsugi reminds us that challenges, differences, and difficult experiences can become part of a person’s unique story. This aligns strongly with neuro-affirming, strengths-based, and trauma-informed practice.

In this practical and reflective webinar, SNAs will explore how connection, co-regulation and supportive relationships can become the “gold” in a student’s journey. Participants will complete a Kintsugi bowl activity, identifying challenges alongside strengths, protective factors, supportive relationships, classroom strategies and words of encouragement.

The session will also explore how the activity can be adapted for students, using a simple cracked-bowl colouring page to help them reflect on challenges, recognise their strengths and identify the people and strategies that support them.

Because growth is not about perfection – it is about support, connection and belonging.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the philosophy of Kintsugi and its relevance to education.
• Apply a strengths-based approach when supporting students.
• Recognise how relationships help repair stress, not children.
• Develop practical strategies that promote resilience, belonging and self-worth.
• Reflect on their own wellbeing and professional growth.

Facilitator: Magdalena Landziak

Magdalena is an advocate for special and inclusive education and an experienced SNA, with over 10 years of experience supporting children with additional needs in primary school settings. She works as a tutor delivering QQI Level 6 SNA courses and provides CPD training for various Education Centres across Ireland. Recognising the need for ongoing, tailored support for SNAs, Magdalena founded SNA Academy to deliver practical, research-informed training and resources. She is also the Editor of AMYGDALA - the First National Magazine for SNAs, sharing insights, strategies, and inspiration to enhance inclusive practice in schools. Recently, she launched her own podcast, From the Bottom of My Heart, creating a space for meaningful conversations, inspiring stories and diverse perspectives on education, inclusion, wellbeing and life experiences. Magdalena holds a Master’s degree in Inclusive Education and SEN, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate (level 9) in 21st Century Teaching and Learning from Trinity College Dublin. She is passionate about supporting children with additional needs and equally dedicated to sharing her knowledge, experience and practical strategies with SNAs and educators to promote meaningful inclusion and strengthen everyday practice. Through her social media platform, @sna_zone, she shares practical strategies, educational resources, professional insights and inspiration to support SNAs and educators in their everyday practice.