A new cohort of student mentors is set to strengthen pastoral care and foster collaboration across the OX14 Learning Partnership.
A fantastic new cohort of over 80 Sixth Form students from across the OX14 Learning Partnership (OX14 LP) including 17 Abingdon students, has officially been recruited to step into the vital leadership role of Peer Support Leads (PSLs).
Working within their respective schools, these dedicated older students will act as mentors for younger peers. By working alongside existing school pastoral systems, the PSLs will provide a crucial layer of care, guidance, and everyday support to students navigating the challenges of life.
Collaboration and Reflection: Year-Round Joint Training
To ensure the cohort is fully equipped for their responsibilities, the PSLs will participate in a series of joint training sessions throughout the academic year. These cross-school sessions are designed as a space for the Sixth Formers to collaborate, share insights, and reflect on their mentoring experiences as well as hearing from experts in the field.
The first joint training session of the year was a resounding success. Students came together to focus on the core pillars of effective mentorship:
- Active Listening & Empathy: Learning how to truly hear and validate the experiences of younger students.
- Creative Loitering: Mastering the art of being a visible, approachable, and reassuring presence in social spaces without being intrusive.
- Safeguarding: Understanding professional boundaries and learning how to properly report and escalate student concerns.
- The Role of a Mentor: Defining expectations, building trust, and understanding the positive impact of peer-to-peer support.
Building Connections and Lifelong Skills
Beyond the formal curriculum, the initial training session highlighted the incredible community spirit within the OX14 LP. It was fantastic to see students from various schools quickly getting to know one another, establishing a support network, and engaging in kind, thoughtful conversations in preparation for their roles. By stepping into these roles, our Sixth Formers are developing essential, lifelong skills in leadership, empathy, and communication.
With the training foundation firmly in place, this inspiring group of Peer Support Leads is ready to make a positive difference in their school communities. We look forward to seeing the incredible impact of their mentorship throughout the year.
