THORNBURY HIGH SCHOOL

The peer support program is based on the principle that at every level and in every age group in society, people absorb information and values from each other. Peer support and positive peer influence is introduced into the school community by training volunteer senior students (Year 10) to act as group leaders to a small number of year 7 students.

The Peer Support Program helps children live with more direction. It gives senior students opportunities for self development and provides junior students with a supportive environment in which to develop their own individuality.

The program involves the senior students as active participants in the teaching process and through practical experience, they develop communication and leadership skills and a greater awareness of their own abilities.

The year 7 students have just experienced a transition from a familiar and senior position in primary school to the most junior and anonymous position in high school. The small family sized groups, each under the leadership of a senior student, provide security and friendship to help them adapt successfully to high school life.

The school also provides opportunities for peer tutoring, peer mediation and peer advice. We believe in the power of student to student education.