`For any teacher or school wanting to set up a buddy scheme, or to explore the possibility of doing so, this book contains some useful suggestions, ideas and guidelines. Even if a school did not wish to adopt the buddy system itself, the book contains useful material relating to citizenship and specific problems, like bullying which makes it a potentially useful resource for teachers and schools in general' - Early Education Peer buddy systems have been demonstrated as very successful with older students. Positive effects are recognized for the individuals befriended and also for the whole community. Margaret has used her vast experience with younger children to develop a programme which achieves these outcomes at the stage when they are learning the skills of friendship and co-operation. Using her popular style of differentiating activities and teaching for two age groups, 6-8 and 9-11, Margaret has provided an exciting, innovative and challenging programme which enhances the citizenship curriculum and the atmosphere of the school. Margaret Collins is a former headteacher of an infant and first school. She is now Visiting Fellow in the School of Education at the University of Southampton. She researches children's perceptions of health education topics, writes and co-writes teaching materials for children, books and articles on personal, social, health and citizenship education (PSHCE).

From the Pal's Perspective
From the pal's perspective

In this section the activities are designed to help the pal to understand the boundaries of her buddy's role and how their meetings will be organised. There is a suggested format for evaluation to enable each pal to assess the effectiveness of her buddy.

First meeting on pal's pre-school visit

After pals have started school

Pal's evaluation of buddy

First Meeting on Pal's Pre-School Visit

The two teachers concerned will arrange the pairing of buddy to pal. Before the pals start school, tell them about the buddy system. Explain that their buddy is an older pupil at the school who will help them to settle into school and help to show them around.

Tell them that you will arrange a time for them ...

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