Teaching Peer Support for Caring and Co-operation

′In light of Every Child Matters agenda and of the current emphasis on giving children a voice in important decision making situations, this book could be a valuable tool′- Educational Psychology in Practice

′This is a great little book designed to help children between the ages nine and 12 to develop good relationships with each other and with other people... [It] includes clear guidance on ways in which children themselves can raise the self-esteem and social status of their less popular peers through listening, talking and understanding others′ - SENCO Update

Ruth and Tina draw upon their experiences to provide a peer support programme that encourages inclusive prosocial processes for young people aged nine to twelve. Drawing upon the philosophy of a Circle of Friends, they have developed a six-step programme that harnesses the skills of popular young people to help others who may have low social status.

The Talk Time programme builds on the message that relationships are what matter most and emphasizes that relationships happen through listening, talking and understanding others.

The book provides all the resources needed including:

• facilitators′ notes

• pupil resources

• letter to parents

• staff briefing sheet

• pupil certificate.

The programme is intended to be run for a group of eight to twelve pupils once a week during lunch times for one term. The aim is to help all group members and hopefully carry over to improve the social climate of the classroom and create a positive and cooperative working environment.

Ruth MacConville is the Head of the Special Educational Needs service, based in Ealing.

Tina Rae is a Senior Educational Psychologist based in Hillingdon.