Wandsworth Mediation Service has completed our Peer Mediation Training at Westbridge Academy last week. Sixteen children from Year 5 and Year 6 were trained to become peer mediators so they can resolve small conflicts children may have at school. The training was delivered by professional mediators with sound industry experience.
The children learned to:
- Listen to each party’s story
- Help the children identify the issues in dispute
- Brainstorm possible solutions with the parties
- Help the parties craft an agreement that is acceptable to everyone involved.
A trained mediator is a neutral party who facilitates communication between two or more people who are in conflict with each other. The mediator does not take sides, offer advice, or make decisions for the parties. The role of the mediator is to help the parties communicate effectively so that they can resolve their conflict themselves. Mediation skills are life-skills which will help pupils at home as well as at school.
There are many benefits to peer mediation training for children. Some of these benefits include:
- Helping children learn how to resolve conflicts peacefully.
- Teaching children communication and negotiation skills.
- Providing children with a positive outlet for dealing with anger and frustration.
- Helping to reduce bullying and other negative behaviours in school.
- Improving school climate overall.
Find out more about the Peer Mediation Training here.
