Breaking down barriers between the older and younger children, building self esteem and increasing confidence are all advantages of a special buddy scheme operated by pupils at Peel Clothworkers’ School.
The system which has operated for the past seven years or so sees older children allied with younger ones and is a way of offering practical support to newer pupils as well as combatting any potential bullying.
So-called Buddies are top year juniors in year six (aged 10 and 11) who are alied to children in the years below.
The scheme is overseen by Sylvia Russell, who said it also allowed the older children to set a good example to their younger school colleagues, as well as helping with the smooth running of break times and lunch times.
On other occasions the mentors can support children who have a problem, often on a one-to-one basis and they can even mediate sometimes in a disagreement between pupils.
The buddy system is supported by Ellan Vannin Fuels which has paid for Buddy caps and has also donated money for items such as playground equipment as well as a Buddies’ trophy.
Andy Sweetman of Ellan Vannin Fuels said: ‘We have supported the scheme for several years and it has been wonderfully successful.
‘It’s great to see the positive impact they have on fellow pupils.’