This Monday, 21 students from Carisbrooke College took part in induction and training for the Mental Health Ambassadors Peer Education Project at the Island VI Form with Mrs Peckham, Mrs Dunn-Coleman and our MHST practitioner, Tom Pratt.

This secondary school-based programme equips young people with the skills and knowledge to support their own mental health and that of others. As Mental Health Ambassadors, students will help deliver mental health education lessons to Year 7, provide peer support through a lunchtime duty rota, act as buddies to younger students, support whole-school mental health awareness events, and contribute to assemblies.

The training explored different types of peer support, highlighting that it involves both giving and receiving support through sharing knowledge, emotional support, social connection or practical help. Students learnt that everyone’s experiences are equally valued, and that the level of support given or received should always feel right for the individual.

Research shows that peer support can significantly improve wellbeing, leading to stronger support networks, increased confidence, better social skills and improved self-esteem. We look forward to seeing these students developing as role models and ambassadors for positive mental health in our school community.