How Student Feedback Shaped the Law School Peer Mentoring Project
The Law School has been working in partnership with its students to develop and grow its Peer Mentoring Project (PMP), placing student feedback at the heart of how peer support is delivered.
The project was originally introduced in response to feedback from a student wellbeing initiative, where students highlighted the value of connecting with and learning from their peers. Since its launch in 2020 for students studying the introductory law module, the project has continued to evolve through ongoing consultation and evaluation.
The approach reflects a commitment to designing support with students rather than for students. Students who have successfully completed the module are recruited and trained as peer mentors, working alongside staff to help shape the project. As part of their training, mentors contribute to decisions around how support is delivered, including planning activities, developing guidance and helping to moderate online spaces.
Student feedback has also played a key role in shaping the platforms used. Initially, mentoring was delivered through the University's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), but evaluation and student consultation found that while students valued mentoring, engagement with the forums was limited. Students reported that they wanted a more accessible and informal way of connecting with their peers.
In response, WhatsApp was introduced as the main communication platform in 2022. The pilot proved successful, with students reporting higher levels of engagement and stronger peer connections. Feedback from participants informed the decision to expand the project in 2024, making peer mentoring available to all students studying the introductory law module.
Students have continued to influence the development of the project. For example, the introduction of WhatsApp Communities enabled the creation of dedicated groups for students with particular interests or support needs, helping to foster a greater sense of belonging and community.
Overall, the Peer Mentoring Project demonstrates how student voice can drive meaningful change. By listening to students and acting on their feedback, the Law School has developed a support model that is more accessible, more engaging and better aligned with the needs of its learners.