"Independent Conflict Resolution for Schoolchildren": senior citizens in Fürther enabling schoolchildren to resolve disputes autonomously
In the heart of Fürth, the Pestalozzi School is making strides in fostering a harmonious and supportive learning environment. The school's unique approach to conflict resolution, spearheaded by a team of dedicated local volunteering mediators, is proving to be a valuable enrichment.
Before starting their work, mediators undergo an intensive 80-hour training, consisting of four modules followed by a practical phase of at least 18 months. This rigorous training ensures that the mediators are well-equipped to handle disputes and provide trust-building conversations one day a week.
The mediators, who work in pairs, are drawn from the local community, with senior volunteers playing a significant role. They discuss feelings that led to disputes and identify unmet needs with students, promoting a deeper understanding and empathy.
The demand for mediation services at the Pestalozzi School is high, with almost all appointments fully booked. The school's weekly 'Room of Good Solutions' is a testament to this, where students learn to handle disputes independently, without formal sanctions.
Principal Stefanie Pistor believes that the mediators' work is instrumental in shaping the school culture. She states, "The project not only resolves conflicts but also conveys a piece of lived democracy, making it a significant building block for school culture in the region."
The Pestalozzi School is just one of the 18 schools in the Nuremberg metropolitan region supported by the SiS network, which was founded in 2001 by social pedagogue Christiane Richter. The network has grown continuously in Bavaria, with more schools on the waiting list.
Attracting new volunteers, especially men who can serve as role models, is crucial for the project's success. Interested individuals can contact Elfriede von Luedinghausen directly for more information: +49 (0)160 7864405 or [email protected].
The concept of senior partners is being implemented in other schools in Fürth, including Grundschulen Frauenstraße, Rosenstraße, and Maistraße. This intergenerational support program is proving to be a valuable asset, fostering understanding and empathy across generations.
The project is funded through donations, grants, and volunteer work, reflecting the community's commitment to its success. Mechthild Müller and Ludwig Schmitt, volunteer school mediators at the Pestalozzi School, are a testament to this dedication.
Role-playing, supervision, and regular further training are integral parts of the mediator training process, ensuring that the mediators remain effective and up-to-date. Exchange among mediators is also encouraged, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
The mediators' work extends beyond conflict resolution, offering individual conversations where children can discuss personal issues or experiences with bullying. This holistic approach ensures that each student feels heard and supported, fostering a sense of belonging and community within the school.
In conclusion, the volunteer mediators at the Pestalozzi School are making a significant impact on the school's culture and the lives of its students. Their work is a testament to the power of local volunteering and the importance of fostering a supportive and understanding environment in our schools.
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