Pupils at Abraham Guest High School in Orrell are talking to older pupils instead of teachers when they need a shoulder to lean on.

These "peer mediators" provide a sympathetic ear to those who have concerns about domestic issues, schoolwork, or potential bullying situations.

The mediators, who are all aged 16 and over, then discusses the problem with the pupil in order to help them to find a solution.
Staff and pupils alike have been delighted with the results.

Headteacher Roy Caslake said: "As a result of consultation with the school council, the issue of bullying was identified as an area of development.

"The outcome of this was the creation and implementation of the peer mediation scheme. In the short space of time since it was introduced, the results have proved encouraging with plenty of positive feedback from the pupils.

"Pupils concerned that bringing their problems out in the open by talking to a teacher now have an alternative."

Chantelle Barker, 16, who was chosen to be one of the 15-strong group of peer mediators, said: "The scheme aims to help young pupils to speak out about problems they may have without involving teachers.

"The majority of the cases we see involve bullying but sometimes exam pressures can also lead pupils to come and talk to us."

Peer mediators are given a training course, through which they are advised how to tackle the difficult situations involved.