How do I apply to become a Peer Mediator

You can apply to become a Peer Mediator in the summer term when you are in Year 4. There is then a selection process:

1. Complete an application form to apply for the post
2. Applicants will then be interviewed by Annette and current Senior Peer Mediators
3. Annette Schembri (Learning Mentor) will review the applications with the Senior Leadership Team and select 12/14 peer mediators
4. The children then take part in a series of training sessions delivered by ‘Behaviour Matters’.  This training teaches the newly appointed pupils the correct strategies to resolve conflicts and support peers who may be experiencing bullying behaviour.
5. During the second half of the summer term, the new Peer Mediators shadow the current Year 6 team in the playground to gain invaluable hands on experience
6. At the start of the new academic year, once the children are in Year 5 the new Peer Mediators are then introduced to the school during an assembly alongside the now Year 6 Senior Peer Mediators who were the previous year 5 peer mediators.

What does the job involve?

Peer Mediators: The aim of peer mediation is for “Peers” to resolve conflict within the school playground using mediation. Children in the playground, at times, feel they would rather ask a Peer Mediator to help them resolve their issues in the playground. The mediation process involves two peer mediators sitting in a quiet area with the children involved and finding a resolution.  If the mediators feel they are not equipped to deal with the conflict then it is referred to a member of staff. However, our mediators often find that they are able to resolve the situations themselves.  Please note that physical altercations are always dealt with by a member of staff.

Mediators are required to keep a record of any conflict resolution that occurs in the playground. There is a book where entries should be logged at the end of every lunch time.

What support is given to a Peer Mediator

Due to the nature of this job and the fact that it can sometimes be demanding, support is always on hand. Twice monthly meetings are held to discuss which strategies are successful when resolving conflicts and any areas with which they require some support.  Annette is also available daily in the pod within the playground where she delivers a "Listening Ear" service to Years 4-6 from 12.30pm - 1.30 pm.  This is shared with the mediators.

Our mediators say their important role has been extremely beneficial to the children in the playground as well as themselves. The children’s confidence has improved and we think they all do a fantastic job!