Peer Mentoring
Peer 'group pressure' is often presented as a negative influence on young people, but it can also be used productively to the benefit of the group members. Peer learning programmes recognise and harness this source of influence through a variety of training events for students which will enable young people to help develop Peer Lead Education Programmes, within the school curriculum.
What does Peer Mentoring involve?
Giving Information
Young People are trained to deliver specific programmes on particular issues. In Staffordshire examples include 'What's your Poison' (drugs awareness) and 'Self-Harm'.
Support
Young People can give positive support to other young people who may be struggling. The success of mentors at moments of transition when young people feel alienated or unsure has been proven time and time again. This may be Year 9 pupils making sure that the new intake of Year 7 pupils each September settles into the High School routine, or Year 2/3 University Students supporting new entrants who may be away from home for the first time.
Virtual Support
Peer Mentors are being used more and more in virtual situations such as at call centres for organisations such as 'ChildLine' and through the Internet such as with the B-Friend 4 U project or chat-rooms. The idea that a young voice answers the phone or responds to an e-mail re-assures those who have made the call, they don't think that they will be told off or talked down to.
Training
Proper training is essential to any successful Peer Mentor programme as is the design of the material or method used. The involvement of young people in the design, monitoring and evaluation is crucial as it makes sure that they are comfortable with the process. What Peer Mentors do need though are adults to back them up who have the skills, background and technical expertise that young people may need to call on in their role as a Peer Mentor. It is all about level of confidence.
What do Peer Mentors gain?
Peer Mentors commitment and responsibility is recognised and accredited through a variety of ways. These include The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, vinvolved and Youth Achievement Awards. Peer Mentoring facilitates mutual learning and allows personal and social development, it opens up new experiences and ways of thinking.
For further information view our contacts page||| and speak to someone at your local office or e-mail youth@staffordshire.gov.uk|||
or
To see how Peer Mentoring is accredited, view some of our other web pages by clicking the links below...
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award|||
Vinvolved|||
Youth Achievement Awards|||
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