When conflicts within a school reach an impasse, Luxembourg's school mediation service intervenes with a team of experts to find solutions and prevent students from dropping out, its new mediator explained Tuesday.

Marguerite Krier, the newly appointed school mediator, outlined the role and objectives of her service in an interview with our colleagues from RTL Radio on Tuesday morning.

The school mediation service is an independent resource for conflicts that cannot be resolved within a school itself. Although it falls under the auspices of the Ministry of Education, the service operates autonomously. As Krier explained, its work focuses on three main areas: preventing students from dropping out, inclusion, and the integration of foreign children new to the school system.

A team of around 12 professionals, including psychologists and legal experts, intervenes in school-related problems when no local solution can be found. Krier stated that the mediation process involves a neutral, factual discussion where all parties are heard and given a chance to "let off steam." This approach, she noted, usually leads to a solution that can prevent a student from leaving school.

Handling 350 cases annually

Established in 2018 to counteract dropout rates, the service was first led by Lis De Pina. During her seven-year tenure, the team handled more than 1,500 cases. The current volume sits at approximately 350 cases per year.

Interested parties can contact the service in writing to schedule an appointment. While its profile has grown, Krier aims to make it even more accessible and well-known. Plans are underway to offer services more regionally, reducing travel time for parents and students.

A student-centred approach

The core of the service's mission is to provide support for parents by addressing the often complex web of problems a student may face. The approach is fundamentally "student-centred," focusing on the child's specific needs and situation.

"The focus should be collectively on the child," Krier stated, emphasising that dialogue is crucial. "One should speak with the student, not about them," she stressed, prioritising the well-being and interests of the child above all.

Advice for the new school year

With the new school term beginning next week, Krier's advice to parents is to seek dialogue early. If problems arise, the first step should be to contact the teacher. If that does not resolve the issue, she advises turning to the available support services.