University of Western Australia’s Initiative: Empowering High School Students through Peer Mentorship

A new initiative from The University of Western Australia will help connect Year 10 and 11 students to younger year groups through a peer mentoring program.

UWA is partnering with four State high schools and leadership consultant Dr Nancy Bonfiglio- Pavisich to develop the program, allowing Year 10 and 11 students to share their knowledge and skills with Year 8 students.

UWA’s Director of Future Students Trish Rechichi said research had shown the effectiveness of mentoring in motivating students and improving self-belief in their academic ability.

Image: Students from Bob Hawke College, Churchland Senior High School, Perth Modern School and Shenton College will be trained to mentor.

“Cross-age peer mentorship can help boost students’ self-esteem and connectedness and lead to
academic success,” Mrs Rechichi said.

Next year, 80 Year 10 and 11 students from Bob Hawke College, Churchland Senior High School, Perth Modern School and Shenton College will attend training sessions at UWA.

Dr Nancy Bonfiglio-Pavisich, Director of Reframe WA Consulting, said an effective student mentor was one who could walk the personal development journey with their mentee.

“These mentors are generous with their time, approachable, non-judgemental and most importantly exceptional communicators,” Dr Bonfiglio-Pavisich said.

“Good student mentors are committed to the growth of their mentees, use the art of questioning and effective listening and provide mentees with opportunities to extend their networks and resources to help them achieve their goals.”

The program aims to strengthen community partnerships while helping mentees build confidence and self-efficacy.

Bob Hawke College Associate Principal Lisa Campbell said the school was excited to partner with UWA and Dr Nancy Bonfiglio-Pavisich for the program.

“The mentors we have identified are really looking forward to participating in the training workshop and then to put their learnt skills to use with the mentees next year,” Ms Campbell said.

“This is a great opportunity for the College to connect not only students but the community in a positive and meaningful way.  We look forward to seeing how the program progresses throughout 2024.”