I have really enjoyed it and feel I have learnt a lot of new skills and also a great deal about myself
Our Work » Schools Peer Mediation
Schools Peer Mediation
Peer mediation is a conflict resolution technique that trains school children as volunteer mediators to work with their peers. In each school we help staff and students set up a Peer Mediation Scheme through which the volunteer mediators work with their peers to help resolve low level conflicts, address bullying, and prevent fights. The curriculum-based scheme is supported by school staff who also receive mediation skills training.
Our Peer Mediation (PM) in Schools Programme has proved to be a powerful, positive initiative because it offers effective life skills, conflict resolution tools and support to anti-bullying strategies. A key aspect of the schools programme is sustainability - we aim that all schools where we work for 18-30 months will be able sustain their peer mediation schemes with minimum support from us. We use a whole school approach - we have discovered that these simple, transferable skills need to be practiced and lived by everyone in school if children are to catch their value.
Has it made a difference?
At schools where PM has been introduced, staff report many positive changes, including:
- a more relaxed and positive learning environment
- reduced staff time in dealing with pupil conflicts
- a reduction in the incidence of behavioural problems and bullying
- a reduction in truancy
All these messages tell us that Peer Mediation in Schools is successful, and doing exactly what was intended: helping children get along better.
I've done lots of training courses and this one was superbly run and managed
I'm delighted to see initiatives like Peaceworks in Schools helping children feel safer and happier
'I like being a mediator. It helps solve a lots of people's problems and lets them get on with school life.'
'The principles and techniques taught by Peaceworks are used in the playground everyday.'
'Establishing lasting peace is the work of education; all politics can do is keep us out of war.'
'If we are to teach real peace in this world, and if we are to carry on a real war against war, we shall have to begin with the children.'
Squabbles never come to me now. They are being resolved. Conflict among pupils has definitely reduced
'Training in Peer Mediation can impart life skills for children which they can put into effect in school, at home, and ultimately in the community.'
'We found Chris and the team highly approachable, full of good ideas and able to listen and understand the needs of school.'
'I have no hesitation in recommending Peaceworks to both primary and secondary schools.'
'We have always found Peaceworks' staff lovely, friendly and easy to work with. My staff enjoy having them in school.'
'Your staff training gives good skills to transfer into own life.'
I totally see the skills that you are teaching these children as being life skills,skills that they need to learn so that they can grow up to be thoughtful, considerate and caring adults.
I found the training fun and I've learned to be a calmer person
Your input to our school is so important
Thank you for your kind words and for all your invaluable help in making peer mediation such a success at SPH.
