 A
two-day workshop for teachers
In 1987 Peer Support Victoria, (now trading as Stride
Foundation), developed a structured program in which
senior students were trained to work with small groups
of junior students in the development of mutual support
and friendship. Now known as the Peer Support program,
it taps one of the most valuable resources in the country
- our young people.
The program is based on the principle that, at every
level and in every age group in society, people absorb
information and values from each other. If Peer Support
is used to transmit sound ideas, it can be a useful educational
tool. Peer Support and positive peer influence is introduced
into the school community by training volunteer senior
students to act as group leaders to junior students.
In secondary schools, senior leaders may be selected
from year 9, 10 or 11, while primary schools may use
year 5 or year 6 students as leaders.
The Peer Support program assists students to develop
positive friendships and to move comfortably from one
school level to the next. Originally developed as a transition
program for year 7 students who have begun secondary
school, it is now widely used in primary schools to provide
support for younger students.
The program helps young people to develop life skills.
It gives senior students opportunities for leadership
and empowers them to be active participants in the facilitation
process while developing communication and leadership
skills. Junior students are provided with a supportive
environment in which to enhance confidence and build
new friendships. As a result, the school community becomes
more friendly and supportive.
Aims of the Peer Support Program
• To improve the sense of community within the school.
• To promote a more supportive environment.
• To enhance self-awareness, self-esteem and communication
skills.
• To provide a comfortable situation in which to develop
trust and encourage the sharing of ideas and feelings
in a non-judgemental atmosphere.
• To increase awareness of individual responsibility.
•To provide strategies whereby junior students are able
to deal with negative peer pressure.
• To provide senior students with the opportunity to
develop their leadership skills in a way which benefits
them and the school.
More Information:
• Workshop Dates and Registration
• Introducing Peer Support into your school
• Peer Support Testimonials
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