Type=image;ImageID=4807;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Pupils received their medals from X-Factor Star Jahmene Douglas;TitleClass=strong;
Wolverhampton Peer Support Network held its annual awards event at Grand Station on Wednesday 26 June and featured special guest appearances from X Factor star Jahmene Douglas, Wolves legend Steve Bull and performances by pupils and celebrity dance group Antics, who appeared on the popular Britain's Got Talent and Got To Dance TV shows.
The event, which was compered by network founder and manager Kevin Pace, celebrated the good work that peer supporters have done in the city's primary schools, secondary schools, special schools, alternative providers, youth centres and community settings.
Councillor Phil Page, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Schools, Skills and Learning, was among those who presented 200 peer supporters with certificates and medals in recognition of their work.
Councillor Phil Page said: "I am delighted to have been invited to support such a prestigious event.
"This is more evidence of the great work being carried out by young people in our city and they all deserve this recognition.
"Wolverhampton Peer Support Network provides a hugely important service in schools across the city and it is very pleasing to see young people working to help fellow peers who might need this support."
Kevin Pace, Education Manager with the City Council's Schools, Skills and Learning Directorate said: "Specially trained young people all over the city are supporting other young people experiencing similar problems, finding solutions and coping strategies together.
"National evidence has repeatedly shown that peer support can support strategies to address transition, bullying, inclusion, achievement, and mental health issues.
Wolverhampton Peer Support Network oversees mentoring, befriending and peer education schemes operating in many of the city's secondary and primary schools, as well as a variety of community, voluntary and youth settings.
Formed in July, 2010 the Network has trained around 2,000 young people through the accredited training scheme in partnership with national awarding body, ASDAN.
Issues that the mentors help to address include bullying, the transition to new schools, inclusion and helping improve attainment.
Further information on the Wolverhampton Peer Support Network can be obtained from Kevin Pace on 01902 556817 or its Coordinator, Sunita Pallan-Jhalli on 07754 152805.
- released: Friday 27 June, 2014