School support program offered

TOOWOOMBA schools are urged to get involved with one of Australia’s longest running mental health and wellbeing programs for students to be held in Toowoomba in July.

More than 3500 primary and secondary students in Toowoomba already engage with the Peer Support Program each year to develop the skills, understandings, attitudes and strategies required to improve their mental, social and emotional wellbeing.

Peer Support Australia CEO Greg Cantwell recognised the value of assisting schools in promoting student wellbeing.

“We are pleased to be able to provide schools with an effective tool to complement and build on existing practices to enhance the wellbeing of all students,” Mr Cantwell said.

“What we know from research is that in order for students to flourish we must create a positive educational environment for them.”

Schools adopting the Peer Support Program report improvements in student to student relationships, student to staff relationships and students feeling a greater connection and sense of belonging to school. In a survey of more than 200 principals who use the program, 91 per cent indicated the Peer Support Program was beneficial in building positive relationships.

Local schools are invited to attend the Peer Support Implementation Workshop on Wednesday, July 26. Here, they will be provided the essential tools a school needs to plan and coordinate a successful Peer Support Program.

Mr Cantwell said the workshop was the “pivotal first step” in having the Peer Support Program in schools.

For more go to peersupport.edu.au.