Budehaven Sixth Form Enrichment

Back in the autumn term our Year 12 and 13 students were invited to apply to become peer mentors as part of our Sixth Form Enrichment programme.  Twenty-seven students were successful and commenced training on how to support some of our lower year groups.  They learnt skills such as how to communicate, empathise, and develop listening and feedback techniques.  They also learnt how to provide advice and guidance for students who would benefit from academic support.

Through the second half of the autumn term, the Sixth Formers met with their mentees every Wednesday in the library and in timetabled lessons.  Each week a variety of activities take place from paired reading and maths support, to conversations about subject progress and tips shared on how to improve.  The Sixth Form Peer Mentors are superb role models and have been excellent ambassadors in working with and supporting our students.

Year 12 student Katy said “I decided to be a peer mentor to use what I learnt throughout secondary school to aid children who need it, as well as to boost my confidence in speaking to my peers and realising that advice I have can make a difference on individual’s experiences”.  She also said, “We were taught how to address issues, as well as how to ensure the children are comfortable engaging in conversations with us, such as acting more as a friend rather than a teacher figure.  I think I have enabled my mentee to feel comfortable, especially talking to people who are older and higher up in the school. Equally, I have helped them address why they are struggling and am now pushing to get them to turn it around”.

Peer mentoring takes place throughout the school year, if you are interested in getting involved, or would like the support of a mentor please see Mr Tyrrell.