On Monday 2nd March, we launched our first Year 7 & 9 Attendance Peer Mentoring session. The programme brings together Year 9 mentors and Year 7 mentees to build positive relationships and support strong attendance habits.

The first session focused on building rapport between mentors and mentees using the mentoring booklet as a guide. Pupils took part in icebreaker conversations to help mentors understand their mentee’s wellbeing, daily routines and experience of school. These discussions also explored any barriers to attendance in a supportive and non-judgemental way.

Pupils were also encouraged to begin thinking about personal goals and what they would like to gain from the mentoring sessions.

Moving forward, sessions will follow a simple structure:

• Recap on previous targets
• Discuss a focus for the session (for example returning to school after holidays or building routines)
• Set a small, realistic goal for the week ahead

The programme aims to strengthen pupils’ sense of belonging, build confidence and support every pupil to attend school regularly and succeed.