RHS has a team of trained Senior Peer Mediators. This service is available to Yr 7-11 students and is run for the students, by the students with the Guidance Counsellors overseeing the process.

How does Peer Mediation work at RHS?

• The trained Peer Mediators always work in pairs, mediating between 2 students.

• Peer Mediation provides a safe, confidential setting where students can sort out conflicts with their peers.

• Students can request a mediation themselves OR a staff member can request one on their behalf.

• Peer Mediation is voluntary.

• The Guidance Counsellors receive the Mediation requests and arrange for the Peer Mediators to meet with the students.

• Peer Mediation encourages the students to talk things through.

• The Peer Mediators DO NOT GIVE ADVICE or ‘SORT OUT’ problems; they give the 2 students in conflict the opportunity to come to an understanding so that they can move on.

• Peer Mediators DO NOT make decisions for the 2 students involved.

• Peer Mediations are carried out in Kahui Rangatahi (Student Services) during the school day.

Some examples of disputes that are suitable for mediation include: gossip/rumours, name-calling, friendship issues, teasing, annoying behaviour by another student, a student using another student’s gear without permission.

NB: Instances of serious harm will NOT be dealt with through Peer Mediation.