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PEER MENTORING SCHEME WINS DIANA ANTI-BULLYING AWARD
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A project that helps to prevent bullying at a North Tyneside school has won a national award.
Longbenton Community College's Peer Mentoring Programme, which pairs sixth formers with younger students in a bid to eradicate bullying, received the Diana Anti-Bullying Award at a ceremony at at Lincoln Cathedral today.
Two of the peer mentors, Catriona Wellwood and Ben Scorer-Walton, travelled to the ceremony where they were presented with the award by Lady Sarah McCorquodale, Princess Diana's sister.
The Peer Mentoring Programme encourages one-to-one relationships between Year 12 and 13 pupils - who act as peer mentors - and younger more vulnerable students who may need extra help.
This is supported by a "Sixth Form Surfer" scheme, where older pupils give a helping hand to shy or vulnerable pupils during break times.
The mentors and surfers are given special training, including a one-day session at Newcastle University. Following the completion of 10 hours of peer mentoring or surfing, they receive a certificate from Newcastle University.
Year 13 sixth form surfer and peer mentor Rachel Cowans, said: "The younger pupils really benefit from having a sixth former to talk to and look out for them. When we take the students out of their lessons for their one-to-one sessions, it's seen as quite cool, so it builds that person's confidence and profile in school in a positive way."
Kim Symington, peer mentor co-ordinator at the college, said: "Evidence is showing that this work is helping younger pupils overcome barriers and develop the confidence to go it alone. We're extremely proud of the way the scheme has developed and grown and the real results we are achieving."
Maggie Turner, director of the Diana Award, said: "The Diana Anti Bullying Award identifies positive young role models that challenge existing stereotypes of young people, and encourages them to develop their full potential.
"Diana Anti-Bullying Award holders are brave and compassionate and give their time and expertise without seeking reward for themselves."
The Diana Award scheme, set up in 1999, comprises three awards. The main Diana Award for inspiring individuals, the Diana Anti-Bullying Award for young people who have tackled bullying and the Diana Certificate of Excellence for groups of young people who have made an exceptional contribution to their community.
Diana-Award
Soure: Community Newswire |
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