PATHS Pals are a school-based peer-support group which is linked to the PATHS Programme for Schools.
Children in P6 are given the opportunity to apply and interview to become a PATHS Pal. If chosen, they are trained to act as playground mentors and conflict resolvers for younger children.
What do PATHS Pals do?
- Support on the Playground: They work alongside lunchtime supervisors to spot children who are lonely or experiencing difficulties during breaks.
- Teach Calming Techniques: They help younger peers apply PATHS emotional management tools, such as the famous “Doing Turtle” technique (stopping and taking a breath to calm down before acting).
- Encourage Problem-Solving: They encourage children to talk through their feelings using structured, positive vocabulary to solve minor disagreements.
- Promote Inclusion: They help isolated children join in on games and make friends.
Benefits of the Programme
Schools that implement PATHS Pals usually see a noticeable shift in their school environment, including:
- Improved emotional regulation and self-management across all age groups.
- Reduced playground conflict, aggression, and hyperactivity.
- Stronger leadership skills and a sense of responsibility for the older students acting as mentors.
