Feedback from Teachers
Staff involved in the programme gave feedback / comments:
“My overall impression of the programme is a very positive one. I feel it offers valuable opportunity for the children to reflect and think more deeply about their lives (both school and home)”
Andrew Searson Class teacher y6
“I think it is a good programme for primary schools but also secondary. Any child who can find inner peace from this work can benefit them for a lifetime. ( It has helped students through) calming down, self awareness, conflict strategies, believing in themselves, confidence booster.”
Sandra Ballantyne – Child development worker (On Track)
“An excellent/essential addition to work at Beck. Fulfilling a deep seated need in pupils and staff. An opportunity to work together at a deeper level of relationship – and to continue that once the course has finished…….I have loved the opportunity to see the pupils in a different way, eg Ricky asking if there is a spirit inside a stone! Joseph leading a stilling. Relationships with pupils can never be the same again – and are changed for the better.”
Deputy head
“I feel that problems can be solved or become more manageable by relaxing and using affirmation cards”
Learning mentor
“The children come back from the groups feeling positive. They refer to the techniques they have learnt. We use them at the beginning or end of lessons when children are having trouble settling. I can remind children of their peaceful places when they are having trouble containing their emotions.”
Class teacher
“With the type of work I do with students I feel that many aspects of this programme can be utilised. These include stilling, relaxation, inter family relationships “
Learning Mentor
“The programme has made me re-focus on the positive things in life and help me to deal with any negative situations and thoughts.”
Support teacher
“Very impressive – I feel that the children have benefited greatly, a few in particular have benefited substantially. The children have wanted to include aspects in daily routines which I have encouraged eg affirmations to sort problems and stillings at beginning of circle time”
Class teacher
“I found the programme very helpful for teaching the students how to control their anger,how to make friends with other students, how to be helpful and kind. One of my students, Michael, has been behaving a lot better since he has been to the peace group. I see a change in other students too……I like the idea that we need to change ourselves first before we try to change anybody else.”
Class teacher
“The children have really enjoyed the programme. The groups look forward to their sessions. It has been well organised and the school’s support staff have gained a lot from it. The children are more able to understand how other children feel when fights and arguments occur.”
Class teacher
“A realistic strategy that young people can use to manage their own individual circumstances.”
“It was a good way of helping young people look within themselves. I have seen all the young people work better within the class/school. It has also helped each pupil to evaluate their own behaviour.”
“Withdrawn pupils now more confident. Some pupils can now articulate the language of relaxation and its effects.”
“It makes me more focussed at work and at home and I can see this working in all areas of my life.”
