circles of friends - from age 5
Sometimes known as ‘Circles of Support’, they build
relationships around a vulnerable pupil. The method must first be
explained to that pupil and the parents, whose agreement and
support are essential. Circles aim to:
- improve the level of acceptance and inclusion of the pupil
- help the pupil make friends inside or outside the Circle
- increase insight into the pupil’s feelings and behavior
The class meet with a trained counselor or an educational
psychologist who explains it is unusual to talk in this way about a
pupil who is not present, but making clear that the pupil has
agreed to the discussion. The class then:
- describe the pupil - only positive
things may be said
- list things about the pupil that they find difficult
- discuss how they
would feel and behave if they were isolated or socially excluded
- consider how they might help - pupils typically produce two clear
solutions: offering friendship and finding ways to keep the pupil
on track
- identify what might stop the pupil changing volunteer to form the
pupil’s Circle of Friends (between six and eight pupils)
Soon afterwards, the initial Circle of Friends meeting takes place
including the focus pupil. Ground rules are negotiated and aims
clarified about helping them to make friends and change any
negative behaviour. In turn, circle members explain why they
volunteered. The leader asks ‘What do we like and value about this person?’
and responses are written down. Next, the leader carefully asks
about the pupil’s negative behaviour. The group brainstorms
strategies for helping the pupil which are recorded and then
prioritised. Finally, circle members come up with a name for their
group, and subsequent weekly meetings of 30 to 40 minutes are set
up.
Experienced leaders comment frequently on the extent of the support
offered by circle members and their ingenuity in devising practical
strategies. Case studies confirm this is a flexible and creative
method to form positive relationships with peers. Newton and Wilson
give a step-by-step guide to the method and list resources. (see curricular approaches to bullying section)
Training is essential.
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