Psychological and pedagogical features of training future social service workers

The system of training future workers of social services is being transformed in connection with a number of challenges in the social-economic sphere, significantly differentiating within the EU countries. The purpose of the academic paper lies in analysing psychological and pedagogical features in the educational training of social service specialists using the example of EU countries. Methodology. A qualitative design based on a content analysis of the legal framework, statistical data and analytical reports posted on the website of the European Association of Schools of Social Work (2022) have been used in the present research. The results show that social work as an educational training program includes three educational levels: bachelor's, master's and doctoral studies. In general, in the EU countries, general requirements regarding the structure and content of educational programs are determined, which are established by legislation. Educational programs are built on a competency-based approach, which involves the formation of professional skills of specialists. Educational institutions specializing in the training of social workers are also experience changes in curricula in accordance with changes in social practice and European education standards, the growing role of practical experience, internships, and research projects. The training programs use the competency-based approach to overcome social problems and changes in social security systems.