Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) is a peer education programme that provides young people with the language and framework to explore and challenge the attitudes, beliefs and cultural norms that underpin gender-based violence, bullying and other forms of abuse, while building resilience and promoting positive mental health. The programme empowers pupils to identify and communicate concerns with peers and school staff by supporting schools to take a ‘whole school’ approach to early intervention and prevention of bullying, harassment, and risky behaviours.Â
As well as being a biology teacher, I also lead the Mentor in Violence Prevention Programme at Whitehill Secondary School.Â
My MVP team includes Andrew Cope (English), PC Alan (Campus police officer), Ellis Munro (P.E), & Lorna Nicholson (WSC).Â
Our goal is to empower our young people at Whitehill to challenge violence, sexism, misogynistic attitudes and bullying in a safe way, by strengthening trust and relationships with staff and pupils.Â