At OLMC the Peer Support program is an important part of the Year 7 Orientation program. It is also an integral part of the schools pastoral program. Peer Support empowers students to support each other and contribute positively to society.

At OLMC, Year 10 peer leaders work with groups of 8-10 students from the incoming Year 7. Peer Support meetings are held throughout term one and term two. An emphasis is placed on developing the quality of student 'resilience'. This involves assisting the students to develop the skills, knowledge and attitudes which will equip them to cope more effectively with situations and circumstances they find challenging. Students learn about optimism, empathy, positive self talk and perseverance.

Peer Support provides students with a supportive learning environment in which to develop the skills, understandings, attitudes and strategies to improve mental well being.

QUOTES

Some year 7 students were quoted saying --

"School began for year 7 with some welcoming smiles from our leaders on the first day of term. The leaders conducted regular meetings with their group to discuss how they were settling in and teach and quide them through aspects of high school life." - Madeline Fitzgerald (7O)

"It was a good way to learn how to control unusual situations whilst having fun." - Jordan Moore (7O)