Peer Counselling: Peer counselling, like traditional counselling, is a process of providing support and guidance. In this approach, either two individuals or a group engage in a helping relationship. The foundation of peer counselling lies in the fact that people often turn to friends or peers for advice and support when facing challenges or making important decisions.

In schools, peer counselling typically involves students supporting one another. Its importance has grown, especially in schools that lack a full-time professional counsellor. Even when a professional is available, it can be difficult to meet the needs of a large student population. Some students may also feel uncomfortable sharing their problems with teachers or counsellors.

It is important to note that peer counsellors are not expected to handle complex or sensitive issues like sexual abuse or suicidal thoughts. In such cases, their role is to guide peers in seeking professional help promptly, ensuring timely support and minimizing potential harm. Peer counselling is best suited for issues such as study habits, time management, social skills, and regular school attendance.

Historical Context and Benefits

Peer counselling or peer mentoring is not a new concept. Many boarding schools have long employed senior students to mentor newcomers, helping them adjust socially, emotionally, and academically. Even in day schools, teachers have historically encouraged peer tutoring and mentoring.

The advantages of peer counselling include:

• Mutual benefit: Both the peer counsellor (mentor) and the student receiving guidance (mentee) gain from the interaction.
• Cost-effective: Peer counsellors are students themselves, making the programme economical.
• Accessibility: Students can access support quickly and informally.
• Comfort and openness: The informal setting encourages students to approach counsellors without hesitation.
• Enhanced school counselling: Peer counselling complements professional counselling programs, expanding their reach.
• Bridges gaps: Peer counsellors connect students with professional counsellors, facilitating support networks.

Roles and Functions of Peer Counsellors in Schools

Peer counsellors can perform various roles depending on the needs of the school:

1. Academic Support:
   • Tutoring students struggling with specific subjects or concepts.
   • Assisting students returning after illness.
   • Improving reading, writing, study skills, and time management.
2. Inducting New Students:
   • Helping new entrants adjust to school routines and social settings.
   • Acting as mentors or “buddies” for students transferring from other schools.
   • Providing emotional and social support to ease transition.
3. Conflict Resolution:
   • Mediating disagreements among students from diverse backgrounds.
   • Guiding peers through conflicts that arise due to adolescence, cultural differences, or varying abilities.
4. Reducing Absenteeism and Dropouts:
   • Engaging students who frequently skip school or are at risk of dropping out.
   • Motivating peers to attend classes and remain committed to school.

Additional roles can be adapted to meet the unique needs of the school community.

Setting Up a Peer Counselling Programme

To establish an effective peer counselling programme, schools can follow these steps:

1. Conduct a Needs Assessment:
   • Identify areas where students require support (academic, social, emotional, or interpersonal skills).
   • Determine if peer counselling is an appropriate intervention.
2. Define Goals:
   • Goals depend on the student population, the peer counsellors selected, and the areas of development.
   • Decide on programme design: same-age peer counselling or cross-age mentoring.
   • Clearly outline expected outcomes to guide activities, resources, and partnerships.
3. Select Peer Counsellors:
   • Choose students who demonstrate:
     • Empathy and self-confidence
     • Active listening and communication skills
     • Non-judgmental attitudes
     • Willingness to help others
     • Trustworthiness and openness
4. Train Peer Counsellors:
   • Professional counsellors should provide training to prepare students for their roles.
5. Define Roles of All Participants:
   • Identify responsibilities for coordinators, peer counsellors, teachers, and support staff.
   • Determine who oversees training, matching counsellors with mentees, and supervision.
6. Gain Administrative Support:
   • Secure backing from the principal, teachers, and staff to ensure programme success.
   • Administrative support is essential for smooth implementation and sustainability.