Peer support pupils organise games and activities for younger students in Kajaani primary school

A peer support programme, previously common only in Finnish secondary schools, has been introduced at Lehtikangas primary school in Kajaani, with older pupils arranging games and activities for younger children during breaks, Yle reports.

The initiative, launched last autumn, aims to improve student wellbeing and foster a stronger school community. Fifteen fifth- and sixth-grade pupils currently act as peer supporters, planning weekly activities such as dodgeball, Finnish baseball (pesäpallo), obstacle courses, and themed events like a Valentine’s Day heart hunt.

“It’s not fun at all to be alone”, said peer supporter Alisa Ahlsten, highlighting the programme’s role in combating loneliness. Fellow supporter Venla Pyykkönen added that pupils can approach them with concerns they might not share with teachers.

Teachers Mirka Karsikas and Kirsikka Rinne introduced the programme after learning of its success in secondary schools. “A child’s wellbeing is the foundation of learning,” Karsikas noted, explaining that social challenges can hinder academic performance. The school’s 750 pupils have responded positively, with many eagerly awaiting the organised breaktime activities.

The Mannerheim League for Child Welfare (MLL), which has developed peer support programmes for over 50 years, plans to expand the initiative to all Kajaani primary schools next autumn. Teachers emphasise the low threshold for participation, particularly among younger children, and suggest further improvements, such as better visibility for peer supporters and formal training for primary school participants.

“Many kids really look forward to the days we come out to play,” said peer supporter Oona Korhonen, while teachers recommend breaktime activities as an easy, resource-light way to enhance school community spirit.