The aim of peer mentoring is to listen to and help pupils transferring to Strade, to make the transition as smoothly as possible.
Often, it is easier to talk to someone close to you in age when you have a problem at school. Year 10 pupils use their experiences within the school to understand the nature and concerns of younger pupils and listen to them. Often, the mentor will be the first to notice a problem or concern that has arisen, and will be in a position to try and help to provide a solution.
A ‘peer support’ is another term that can be used to describe the mentoring scheme. It begins with the natural willingness to act in a supportive role towards others. This enables mentors to practise having responsibility, and to develop empathy and care in dealing with young people.
The mentors will begin their work in July and will play a key role during the summer season to assist school staff with the transition of pupils. This includes, assisting on the induction evening and induction days. The mentors will continue with this work during Tuesday morning PSHE from September-May.
The process of becoming a mentor begins in late May of year 9 and will include:
- A letter of application describing their suitability to be a mentor.
- Training in school on how to be a mentor.
- A declaration to abide by the Mentoring Agreement, signed by the mentor and parents.
For more information, please contact Mr. Adam Powell at the school.