Allestree Woodlands School’s peer mentoring programme to support Year 7 students is being extended following a successful relaunch this year.
Designed to foster a strong sense of belonging among students and support the personal development of both mentors and mentees, the programme began in February (with training), before being launched after Easter, and has been such a success that the school will be running it from September to support the new Year 7 students.
The initiative pairs selected Year 9 students with Year 7 pupils, creating meaningful one-to-one connections across year groups. Each mentoring pair meets weekly during one morning registration, using this time to build rapport, offer guidance, and simply connect—often through games like Connect 4 or Guess Who, or through informal conversation.
At the heart of the programme is the goal of giving Year 7 students a trusted older peer they can talk to—someone who listens, understands, and supports them through the challenges of starting secondary school.
“We want our Year 7s to know they’re not alone. Having someone older to turn to—who’s been through it—makes a huge difference,” said Helen Smith who is overseeing the programme as Head of Year 9.
When needed, mentors can also signpost issues to staff, helping ensure every student feels seen, heard, and cared for.
The benefits extend to the mentors as well. Year 9 students gain valuable soft skills such as communication, empathy, resilience, and responsibility. They learn how to listen actively, read between the lines, and explore different ways to engage with younger students.
Millie, 14, is a mentor for Tyger, 12. She said: “I feel like it helps me to understand what people are going through. Helping them through that is bringing out the best in me.”
Fellow mentor Saanvi, 13, said: “It is really nice being a mentor because I know that I can help someone and they can look up to me in a way that makes me feel like a good person. If someone is struggling, I know I can be there for them. It is through our good actions that we make our future so I’m grateful I have done this.”
The older students also relish the responsibility it gives them.
“Knowing someone is depending on you teaches punctuality and commitment,” said Helen. “It’s about helping others, but you grow a lot yourself, too.”
The programme has been popular among Year 9 girls, though boys are also involved, and additional training sessions are offered to ensure all mentors feel confident and supported in their role.
Allestree Woodland School is now preparing to involve current peer mentors in the school’s upcoming transition events for the Year 6 students starting at the school in September.
During the Year 6 Transition Evening and the Common Transfer Days in early July, when Year 6 students will join Woodlands for a three-day transition experience to get to know their new school, mentors will be on hand to meet the students and their families, answer questions, and help new pupils feel valued from day one.
“We want our new students to know they matter—right here, right now,” said Helen. “Seeing older students take the time to support them makes a lasting impression.”
Tyger said his time with Millie had helped him at school.
“It is good for me because I get to speak about what’s happening in class and what I’ve been doing in school and it’s made me more confident with other people.”
Mason, 12, who is mentored by Corey, 14, has also enjoyed the experience.
Mason said: “It’s been good to talk to other people. I talk to people better now I think. It’s definitely helped me settle in.”
And Corey said being someone close in age to the Year 7s can help them open up.
“I remember what it was like when I was in Year 7 it is quite useful to have older students to talk to, it helps you make new friends.”
Head of Year 7, Dan Harries, agrees and says he has seen the impact the mentoring scheme has had on students.
“The mentoring sessions are such a great environment and it encourages kids to make those positive relationships. I’ve had many staff comment on the Year 7s who are being mentored saying how settled they are now.”
Parental consent is always sought in advance for participation in the mentoring programme. While not every student may wish to take part, the school ensures the opportunity is inclusive, welcoming, and impactful.
Head teacher Gemma Penny praised the work of staff and students in making the programme such a success.
“For us at Woodlands, the Peer Mentoring Programme is more than a support strategy—it’s a reflection of Allestree Woodlands School’s focus on building a sense of belonging, and community,” said Gemma.
This story was written and shared on behalf of Allestree Woodlands School by Kirsty Green. Can we share your news and get you in the headlines too? Find out how we can help by getting in touch.
