Success for first year of Peer Mentors

Since September 2016, a group of around 60 students from Calder High School, Sowerby Bridge High School and The Brooksbank School were selected to take part in a new initiative which was trialled in schools throughout Calderdale.

Working with Invictus Wellbeing Services, a Calderdale company who deliver support services to students, the Peer Mentors completed an intense training programme which focused on being able to provide advice, support and serve as role models for younger students in their schools.

A Calder High School student said: “When I started at Calder High school there wasn’t a Peer Mentoring scheme and at times I found it difficult in making new friendships, finding my way around the building and understanding how high school works in general.

“The Peer Mentoring scheme helps to address these issues and I wanted to be part of it. I felt that as a year 11 student I could be a good role model and could help younger students to feel safe and happy in their new environment.”

As Peer Mentors, the pupils have faced a variety of issues from schoolwork, social issues and other typical difficulties of growing up.

Maryanne Loiacono from Invictus Wellbeing Services said: “All students involved have shown incredible maturity, dedication, compassion and resilience over the past two terms and have gained the experience to continue doing the exceptional Peer Mentoring work in each of their schools.

“This evening is a way of celebrating their achievements and showing how proud we are of them.”

During the evening, students received certificates for taking part in the scheme and after the celebrations they were given a guided tour of the Town Hall by the Mayor of Calderdale, including the Council chambers.