In her own words Jonavelle Capitan of Plaistow School says being a Peer mediator” is like being a superstar”. She says that people respect and listen to her and then she is able to use her skills to help with their problems.
Since being a mediator Jonavelle has been able to meet many different students in her school as well as making lasting friendships. Jonavelle shared with me how proud her family are of her and recall how her aunty noted her growth in confidence. This is echoed by the Learning mentor, Tina Dobbs and her class teacher Ms Clarke. Mrs Dobbs who coordinators the Peer mediation programme is delighted that the previously shy girl who spoke in almost a whisper ‘has grown (in confidence) enormously’ since the initial training. Ms Clarke has also witnessed positive changes. Jonavelle now contributes to class discussions and her overall social skills and interaction with other class members has grown. Ms Clarke noted that Peer Mediation was a point of discussion between herself and Jonavelle from which other conversations would emerge; “she could have got left out, being so shy” but it was good to hear just the opposite was true.
Jonavelle is one of the 12 strong team of Mediators at Plaistow Primary. Conflict and Change are very pleased to be able to support the good work that is happening at Plaistow Primary and hope that all the mediators will grow from strength to strength. Keep on shining you superstars!
Natalie Mahoney – Primary Schools’ Officer
