Peer Relationships Case Study

During my placement I was situated in a Greek orthodox school located in metropolitan South Australia, within a close proximity of my residential address. My teaching areas were year 8 and 9 English, and I also acted as an assistant for year 10,11 and 12 English. During my placement I was involved in an incident where a student made allegations about myself and another year 12 student. For the purpose of this assignment the two students involved in the dilemma were Meg and Catherine. Meg a renowned troublesome student made allegations that I intentionally visited my local supermarket to see Catherine one of the students in my year 12 English class. Initially I viewed my dilemma from a selfish point of view, as the repercussions of such allegations

Welch (2014), states that relationships have the ability to influence learning, behaviour, engagement and wellbeing of students. In particular peer relationships can provide a range of positive outcomes that can influence a students social and emotional wellbeing. Welch (2014), highlights that there are many varieties of peer relationships, all of which can have positive effects on the associated students. Welch (2014), states that peer relationships provide students with companionship, emotional support, social identity and a sense of safety and belonging. These aspects of peer relationships are imperative to the academic success of students. Welch (2014), states that recent research indicates that happy secure students learn and work better than unhappy insecure ones. Welch (2014), states that peer relationships have many positive properties, however friends can also be liabilities and cause negative emotions. These negatives typical appear through bullying, harassment and conflict. Welch (2014), indicates that the presence of negative relationships can inhibit learning and