School should be a welcoming, caring, respectful, safe and inclusive space for all students. Peer support networks help create this space by being a safe environment for students to connect with their peers in ways that may not be possible in the classroom. Where class time is structured around curriculum, peer support groups can be a place for students to learn and discuss topics that they are passionate about. The opportunity for students to share interests and ideas with likeminded groups helps them to foster relationships and a sense of belonging in school.
Peer support networks can also help to create healthy, respectful relationships and a developed sense of empathy, which can prevent or eliminate bullying behaviour and discrimination. They can also increase students’ sense of belonging and positive mental health by fostering meaningful relationships.
Other positive effects of peer support networks include: