harnessing the positive influence young people have with their peers...as 1:1 peer mentors and in groups as peer educators

Most young people talk freely to each other about the issues that affect and interest them. We build on this desire but crucially ensure that the information and guidance young people give each other is factual, relevant and supported. Young people can and do make a very efective contribution in their own communities. We have been developing successful peer mentoring and peer education programmes for over a decade, and have also provided training to voluntary and public sector organisations to help them establish schemes.

We welcome government recognition on the value of peer mentoring and peer education but we do believe it is imperative that both young and adult mentors have access to appropriate training and ogoing support. We train young people once a week for three months to enable them to be effective mentors and educators.

We encourage our older young peer mentors and educators (16plus) to work towards a Level 2 BTEC qualification, established nationally by Edexcel and UK Youth. We hold the operating licence for these qualifications in Kent and Medway and licence & quality assure schools, voluntary groups and other providers to deliver the qualifications.

We have for two years been delivering a programme funded by v to enable more young people aged 16plus to become accredited volunteer peer mentors and peer educators. This programme will end in September 2008. Many schools and partner organisations have been involved and some amazing work has been carried out by young people. 

Schools, colleges, charities and private sector organisations can still access our Level 2 peer qualifications direct with us and we look forward to working with you.