Heroes Programme Back With A Bang
Five girls taking part in the programme, which was introduced to raise aspirations, have even set up an email address for anyone who might have concerns about bullying.
The Year 10 pupils - Charley Wood, Bronwyn Ryan, Karis Millen, Kirsten Marshall and Brittany Whitham (pictured) - take turns to monitor the email account nobullying@ketteringscienceacademy.org throughout the day and have been given special training in confidentiality as well as support from staff.
Brittany said: "Some pupils might feel more comfortable talking to us and they can speak to us about anything; it doesn't have to be just about bullying."
Year 11 students who signed up to the Heroes scheme have been working with younger pupils in the Primary Phase, talking them through different scenarios and what to do if they think someone is being bullied.
Hero Dolores Birkett said: "We have gained a lot of confidence from going over to the Primary Phase and we've got to know the children well.
"We try to make the sessions interesting and fun and we really think that the children feel they could speak to us if they have any concerns."
Primary Phase Teacher Caroline Leeming added: "The Heroes have set a good example to the children who really look up to them."
The Year 10 Heroes will also start working with Primary Phase children in the summer to support them through the transition to the Secondary Phase.
They will also be involved in the training of new Heroes in Year 9.
Katie Trevor, KSA's Mentoring Co-ordinator, said: "For the Heroes themselves, it really helps their self esteem. They love going over to the Primary Phase and genuinely feel like they're making a difference to the younger pupils."