Key Aspects of the Training, Education and Needs of Primary School Teachers for the Implementation of Moral and Character Education

Abstract Introduction: The new curriculum in Slovakia highlights the importance of moral and character education. School principals and teachers are actively exploring how to incorporate it into their school practice. Methods: The study investigates teacher preparation and their views on current conditions for implementing character education. Data were collected via an online questionnaire from 342 primary school teachers across Slovakia. Results: Only 17% of respondents received training in the subject, and 39.8% rated the conditions for its implementation as insufficient. Discussion: Teachers generally consider both their training and implementation conditions inadequate, indicating a need for improvement. Limitations: The sample is not representative and lacks balanced regional and gender distribution. Conclusions: Successful implementation of character education requires high-quality teacher training and supportive and favourable school-level conditions.