Firstly, PALs has been shown to increase levels of academic and social support to students, especially those in their first year of study. Attendees at PAL sessions report that they feel more confident with their academic work and working as part of a group. You can also know that your students are receiving additional support from peers, and will be sign posted to specialist services where appropriate.
We have received the below feedback from staff who have been involved with the scheme:
First year students were really appreciative of having that space there for them, and felt it added an extra layer of support. The PAL Leaders were just excellent – they were very proactive in promoting the sessions and always really well prepared for them. They were also really keen to find out what students in first year were learning about and challenges they were facing, in order to make the PAL sessions more meaningful and supportive.
Marta Da Costa (Tutor – Education)
The PAL leaders have worked so incredibly hard to grow a sense of community with the first years who attend the sessions, to inspire, support and encourage them in their studies. Colleagues from across the Faculty have shared encouraging feedback about the scheme, they’ve shared how students seemed better prepared for practical clinical assessments and how they’ve witnessed the value of peer to peer learning.
Karen Crees (Senior Lecturer – Nursing & PAL Faculty Lead for HPSC)