A dynamic and responsive Peer Support program ensures that students from primary school find the transition in Year 7 a seamless process. The program provides an opportunity for Year 11 student leaders to help Year 7s adapt to their new environment by acting as mentors and friends. The Year 11 leaders assist them with any difficulties, forge friendships, improve communication skills and team work. Year 11 students experience two days of training at the end of Year 10. The Peer Support program is always evaluated very positively by both Year 11 student leaders and Year 7 students.
From the Year 7 students:
"Its a great opportunity to meet new friends."
"We get to meet helpful seniors."
"It's a great way for us to get informed."
"It was fun and the stuff about bullying really helped."
"We learn lots of things and get involved in new and different activites."
"I made lots of new friends."
From the Year 11 student leaders:
"It was really rewarding to watch the Year 7s grow, become more independent and develop their interpersonal skills."
"It develop my leadership skills and ability to handle responsibility."
"I have decided to now take up a career in primary school teaching."
"It was fantabulous."
"The training was excellent and we were really well prepared."
The Peer Support program at Birrong Girls helps students from Year 7 settle into high school and make new friends. Year 11 students are trained as Peer Support leaders and work in small teams to provide guidance and advice to groups of Year 7 students.
