Ashmead School

We would like to introduce this year’s Befrienders, who have already begun making a difference on the playground. Befrienders are voted for by their fellow classmates and are those children who look out for their peers and provide a listening ear, as well being someone to play with on the playground, helping to ensure all children are supported and have fun.

Outdoor playtimes can sometimes be a difficult time for some pupils, and these playground champions want to help. Many children find it easier to talk to their peers first, so Befrienders are there to support, listen and liaise with staff where needed. They are easy to spot because of their red jumpers, but children can also wait for help on the Befrienders bench located on the playground.

For the last few weeks, our Befrienders have had a positive impact on the playground. As a result, they have reported that they are getting to know more children and are enjoying making other pupils smile.

Over the year, the Befrienders will be bringing new games to the playground and ensuring that everyone feels included during playtime. Our goal is for all children to feel that they belong, they are valued and and that we care.

 Peer Mentors

At Ashmead we have a fantastic team of Peer Mentors from Years 5 and 6. The children have been trained to provide pastoral support and guidance to pupils across the school. They are equipped with skills in mental health awareness, communication, listening and safeguarding. They are fantastic at providing a listening ear and act as mental health ambassadors for the school.

Throughout the week Peer Mentors take on following duties:
• A Key Stage 2 'break duty' where Peer Mentors support friendships and help to ensure all children have a listening ear if needed.
• An early morning supporting children in Key Stage 1 and the Year 3/4 team. Peer Mentors support with reading, early work and help younger pupils to become positive communicators.
• An Early Years duty where Peer Mentors work alongside the youngest pupils at Ashmead, supporting with developing play skills and social development.

Peer Mentors are an essential part of promoting positive mental health and wellbeing at Ashmead. The Peer Mentors take their jobs very seriously, completing an application form for the role and attending monthly meetings with Miss Lubbock. They drive initiatives at school, such as World Mental Health Week and sometimes you will see them out and about at school drop off spreading positive messages to start the day. You will know who a Peer Mentor is because they have a special badge and a lanyard to let you know they are on duty.