Healthy Harold and Peer Support unite to strengthen student wellbeing

With over one in three Australian students experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety, the need for holistic wellbeing education has never been greater.  

For more than 45 years, both organisations have equipped children and young people with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive. Life Ed NSW is a a trusted presence in schools across the state T, delivering vital health education on nutrition, respectful relationships, drug and alcohol awareness, and social-emotional development. The Peer Support program trains senior students as Peer Leaders, who guide younger students through weekly small-group sessions. Together, they build strong cross-year peer connections and create a true sense of belonging at school. This student-led initiative empowers senior students to grow as confident leaders while nurturing a positive, inclusive culture that supports everyone’s wellbeing.   

A holistic approach to wellbeing education 

This partnership brings together unique strengths of both organisations to deliver a truly holistic, whole-school approach to wellbeing education. The Life Ed and Peer Support Programs address the full spectrum of factors influencing student wellbeing and the entire school environment, including students, teachers, families and the wider community.  

The Peer Support program provides: 

• Evidence-based, peer-led lessons that foster leadership, resilience, and cross-year connections 

• Accredited training and ongoing professional development to empower teachers 

• Resources and engagement opportunities for parents and carers, reinforcing wellbeing education beyond the classroom 

• Support for school-wide policies and culture that promote safety, inclusion, and belonging 

By integrating the Peer Support program with Life Ed’s health and wellbeing initiatives, schools gain a comprehensive solution that builds student and staff capacity to create safe, supportive, and flourishing school communities. 

Proven impact across the region 

Annually, over 2,200 schools participate in the Life Ed and Peer Support programs. Educators report improved student confidence, stronger inclusion, and a more connected school community as a result of the Peer Support program, which is internationally recognised for its evidence-based, peer mentoring approach. 

Teachers across the region are already seeing the benefits of the program in action. Karen, a teacher at Newcastle High School, praised the Peer Support teacher training as both “authentic and practical,” equipping her with the tools to strengthen student wellbeing. 

“This partnership strengthens the impact we have on young people,” said Jonathon Peatfield, CEO of Life Ed NSW. “By working together, we’re providing students with a holistic toolkit for wellbeing, ensuring they are supported in their personal decision-making and in developing positive peer to peer connections.”

The Peer Support program enhances Life Ed’s whole-school approach by building teacher capacity and providing clear strategies to develop confident, proactive student leaders who positively influence their school culture.

“Taking a whole-school approach empowers every member of the school community with the tools to support student wellbeing,” said Mr. Peatfield. “When students feel safe, supported, and connected, they thrive academically and personally.”

Looking Ahead

With this new custodianship, Life Ed NSW is committed to expanding the reach and impact of the Peer Support program across the state, ensuring more students, teachers, and families benefit from this holistic wellbeing solution. Our vision is for every school community to have the resources, support, and evidence-based strategies needed to help every child thrive.

To learn more about how your school can benefit from Peer Support, visit: www.peersupport.edu.au