The first task of our Year 11 Peer Mentors is to be available in the Hex to ensure all Year 7s are settling into Priory.
As Year 10s, our Peer Mentors underwent an ASDAN Peer Mentoring training programme over two-days, helping to support young people through mentoring and ‘buddying’. They are now putting into practice.
Jacob, who has set up a rota to make sure the Year 7 area is always covered at break and lunch, said: “I have been in the Hex and have been asked a few things by Year 7s but it is mostly by my sister and her friends! I am there to help though.”
Ruth said: “I became a Peer Mentor because I wanted to help younger pupils, especially if they are feeling vulnerable. It’s also good to have on my CV.”
Megan said: “I want to support children to make sure they don’t feel alone. You can help everyone who needs it by just letting them talk.”
Deborah added: “I want to be a children’s doctor so this will help me while also allowing me to care for our younger pupils.”
Lead Practitioner for Personal Development, Ms Smith, presented them all with their pin badges. She said: “At Priory we realise that our older pupils are excellent role models for younger pupils and so we have a very successful peer mentoring programme in place.
"Our qualified Peer Mentors will help pupils cope with everyday life and worries at school and will offer guidance on both social and academic areas of school life.
“It’s great that these pupils want to give up their own time to support our younger pupils. Not only does this course boost their motivation and confidence but makes the perfect addition to a college application or CV too.”
