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Peer support in the Junior School 2005

Junior School Peer Support

Peer support in the Junior School 2005

The Peer Support Program was introduced into the Primary School in Term Two this year. The Program is based on the belief that students of all ages can learn a lot by working with each other. It forms an integral part of the pastoral care program and provides boys the opportunity of working together as a team, Mr Mason’s theme for this year. Our Year Six students were taught basic communication and leadership skills in a one-day workshop. These fine young boys are learning to become active participants in the facilitation of social skills activities within their House groups. They are helping these younger students in Years Two to Five to develop self-esteem and coping strategies by providing a secure and safe environment in which to communicate and sort through their own ideas, values and concerns. Of course, having fun is always a great way to learn too!

Our Peer Support lessons have proved very popular with the students. The Year 6 leaders have taken on the responsibilities of running practical sessions, planning activities and organising their Houses. It is a credit to them and their teachers for the amount of time and effort that has gone into every aspect of this new program. It has been great to see the rapport that is building between boys of all ages. It is playing an important role in their personal development and helps them feel a sense of community within our school.

Our Peer Support Program will give each boy a chance to develop his organisational, communication and leadership skills. We hope that our Year Six leaders will seek out leadership positions in the Senior School. They will have the opportunity to become Peer Support leaders once more and develop that sense of belonging with the new Year Seven boys in the near future.

STEVEN GRBAC
Junior School, Head of Peer Support

Updated: Monday 24 June 2013