Peer Mediation is a school programme where children and young people learn to engage positively with conflict. It involves student mediators helping their peers to sort out their disagreements by acting as neutral third parties.

Peer Mediation develops social skills that help make communication healthier and empowers young people to create positive changes in the lives of their peers.

As well as at school, Peer Mediators tell us they use their skills with their families and with their friends outside of school, mediating successfully between siblings, siblings and parents, or friends who have fallen out.

It can have incredible ripple effects – in their lives, in their communities, and in our society.

Conflict happens between people all throughout life, at all ages, making mediation skills vital.

Restorative practices help students to resolve disagreements, take ownership of their behaviour, and engage in acts of empathy and forgiveness. Schools are increasingly turning to restorative practices to assist with creating a positive school community and respond effectively when problems arise.

Evaluations conducted in schools worldwide indicate that restorative practices improve relationships among students and teachers, reduce disciplinary problems and build community spirit.

PEER MEDIATION DEVELOPS: