BIFF review / Peer Mediation ***

FRIDAY, MAR. 16:

Peer Mediation ***

Director: Lucinda Spurling
Stars: Students of Saltus Grammar School
Country: Bermuda, 2011
Rating: Unrated
Running Time: 20 mins
Genre: Short/educational

An informative look at how to avoid conflict in the classroom.

Featuring real students from Saltus Grammar School, this short by local filmmaker Lucinda Spurling gives valuable advice to teenagers about resolving quarrels.

Malicious gossip is a problem on a small island like Bermuda, and is particularly prevalent among teens.

When she hears rumours about her boyfriend Trey, Arielle confronts him in front of his friends.

This only serves to worsen the situation. A teacher intervenes, telling them to attend a peer mediation session.

Peer mediation involves two students trained as mediators who listen to both sides of the story, without taking sides or passing judgment. Everything is confidential.

As Arielle and Trey — played by Arielle Desilva and Trey Simons — hear what the other has to say they recognize that a misunderstanding has taken place.

The conflict is resolved and concludes in a ‘win-win’ situation.

Sponsored by the Coalition for the Protection of Children, Peer Mediation will teach teenagers important lessons in life, such as not judging others and being willing to listen to both sides.

It is ably narrated by students Jessica Lewis and Jacari Brimmer-Landy.