News
Peer Mentoring at Gaynes School
BackAt Gaynes, we are proud to run a thriving peer mentoring programme that brings together selected Year 9 and Year 10 students with younger students in Years 7 and 8. The programme has been designed to build a strong sense of belonging across our school community while supporting students socially, academically, emotionally and holistically.
Throughout the programme, mentors and mentees meet regularly to develop positive relationships and grow in confidence. Sessions have focused on:
- Introductions and building trust
- Getting to know each other and developing communication skills
- Study skills and goal setting
- Emotional wellbeing and resilience
- Reflection and celebration of progress
Our peer mentors have taken part in basic safeguarding training and dedicated 1:1 workshops to help them prepare for their roles and develop their mentoring skills. Weekly sessions also include diary checks, behaviour checklists and opportunities to support the holistic development of interpersonal and organisational skills.
The engagement from all students involved has been exceptional, with many mentees sharing how much they value the time spent with their mentors. Feedback highlights the positive impact the programme is having on confidence, motivation and connection across year groups:
Student Testaments
“I love seeing Ana on a weekly basis. She helps me with my studies and we go through some work together. I look forward to it each week.”
“I get to see Dasie and De’avion in mentoring and we catch up when we see each other around the school — they really care how I’m doing at school.”
“Tom has been amazing — he looks through my maths with me and explains how to do it. He also always asks me what I’ve done over the past week that I’m proud of.”
“Omolayo is so smart — I want to be as bright as her in the future. She works so hard.”
“Hollie is funny and always kind. She has a real interest in me and I enjoy spending time with her.”
“Scarlett always asks how I am both in and out of mentoring — I appreciate the time she takes to ask not just about my lessons but also how my friendships are.”
“Vinay is a cool guy — he reminds me that what I do today impacts my tomorrow.”
We are incredibly proud of our mentors for the care, maturity and leadership they have shown, and of our mentees for their enthusiasm and commitment. The programme continues to strengthen relationships across the school and reinforces our shared goal of ensuring every student feels supported, valued and part of the Gaynes community.
