A PEER mentor scheme has been extended at Worcester Sixth Form College.

The scheme, which was successfully piloted last year, provides practical one-to-one support for students who may be struggling with confidence issues or experiencing loneliness.

The idea is to help students make the transition from school to college as easy as possible.

This year the Student Services’ Counselling Team have trained twenty-one second year students as peer mentors. The students have covered a variety of topics in their training including understanding confidentiality, equality and diversity, active listening skills and record keeping.

The College’s lead Counsellor, Sam Ridout, supervises the Peer Mentors throughout the year.

The mentors hae the opportunity to develop and improve their communication skills, problem solving, self-esteem and empathy.

However, if it becomes apparent that counselling may be a more appropriate option, the student is offered this.

Sam Ridout said: “It is hoped that this continues to be one of the many ways that Worcester Sixth Form College help our students settle into their course, make progress and achieve their potential, ultimately enabling them to make positive decisions for their future.”