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Peer Mentors celebrated in ceremony with Vice-Chancellor

Wednesday, 30 May, 2018

Bath Spa University's Peer Mentors - who support first-year students as they adjust to University life - were celebrated recently at a ceremony hosted by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sue Rigby.

50 Bath Spa students were presented with certificates in recognition of their achievements as Professor Rigby thanked them for their commitment, dedication and contribution to the student experience throughout the year.

Launched in 2009, the Peer Mentor Scheme matches first year students with second or third year students studying the same course. The Mentors are there to provide informal support in all aspects of University life, both academic and social.

Second year BA Creative Writing student Louise Thacker was just one of the Peer Mentors who attended the ceremony.

She said: "Being able to offer guidance and advice to new students is very rewarding and enriching as it reaffirms the supportive community we have here at Bath Spa. It's been wonderful to speak to my mentees and support them in the first step of their university journey."

Second year Education Studies student Andrea Fieldhouse-James added: "Having a Peer Mentor helped me to adjust to university. My Peer Mentor made me feel welcome and part of Bath Spa. Having a friendly face around campus was great. I would definitely recommend having a Peer Mentor to new students."

Sophie Batchelor, Peer Mentor Scheme Co-ordinator, commented: "I'm very proud of all of our Peer Mentors for their hard work this year. We have had lots of positive feedback from first year students about the scheme, which is a tribute to our wonderful Mentors."

In addition to mentoring first year students, Bath Spa's Peer Mentors have devoted over 500 hours of their time volunteering at University events, including "Get Started", an early induction event for students with disabilities and physical and mental health conditions, plus Registration Weekend and National Student Money Week.

Visit our Peer Mentor page for more information about the scheme.