The Rise of Peer Support Leaders - Part 2
- Lukas Seet
- Jan 18, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 23, 2024
In the previous blog post, we discussed on the reason of the existence of peer support leaders and introduced the launched of The Peer Support Leaders Initiative.
Thus far, the programme has assisted in the training of numerous peer support leaders (PSL) in Singaporean schools. Through games such as “The Pillar Game”, PSLs are able to learn that they can go further in life with support. Apart from that, they were also taught that peer support is easier with more people and that games are more fun when being played together.
Afterall, more the merrier!
Lastly, the PSLs were educated through the gameplay that courage is required to experience life’s ups and downs.
While gamification is an effective technique for providing PSLs with visual aids in an enjoyable learning environment, relatability is also another interesting way to engage and interest the leaders in obtaining the key qualities of a PSL.
Being able to relate to their peers will allow the PSLs to be more approachable. A study in 2023 showed that “the relatability factor” was one of the key elements, the reason being that “peer support thrives on the fundamental premise that individuals of the same age group, undergoing similar experiences, can relate to each other's challenges more effectively.”
The initiative introduces four different PSLs with four different roles in the peer support system for PSLs who are in the same or similar positions to relate to their responsibilities.
Kai Xin is a prefect and cares about the well-being of her classmates. As a student leader, she takes the time and makes the effort to understand how her peers feel and help them.
Amir is a group leader and he leads his peers in group work and school projects. As a student leader, he takes the initiative to help his peers in their schoolwork and projects.
Justin is a class monitor and takes time to listen to the needs and concerns of his classmates. As a student leader, he assumes the duty of communicating to his teachers the worries and requests for assistance from his peers.
Diya is a peer support leader and cares for the emotional and mental wellbeing of her classmates. She builds relationships with her peers and seeks to help improve their characters and mindsets.
In conclusion, PSLs are more than just a title. They are the invisible support that peers need in their lives.
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