Sas Otto, accredited mediator and experienced educator, explains how mediation or alternative dispute resolution can be used in schools to resolve conflict creatively and effectively. It can be used in a variety of cases, including disciplinary problems and disputes resulting from peer pressure, bullying or abuse. Sas clarifies the ground rules, principles, advantages, duration and cost of mediation and shows how mediation can take hands with restorative justice, which relies on reconciliation rather than punishment.

If you are new to podcasts, simply click on the arrow to listen to Sas and Mariette, or on the download button to download the conversation onto your device.

In ep. 59 of the weekly podcast series Calm, Clear and Helpful,  Sas Otto touches on

• a simple definition of mediation

• the role of the mediator

• the principles and the benefits of mediation

• how mediation can be used in schools, where conflict is a common occurrence

• the ideal that apart from the code of conduct for learners, a school will develop a policy with guidelines, principles and procedures for mediation

• who can request mediation

• the process, duration and cost of mediation

• the question of confidentiality

• the concept of restorative justice, which relies on reconciliation rather than punishment - on putting right the wrong

• where reliable mediators can be found

• a practical example of how a mediation session can be approached

• his 3 top tips for learners.

Discover why mediation means a couple needn’t go to court when getting divorced.

Feel free to click on Home and browse this website for articles and podcasts on more fulfilling love relationships, easier parenting, and upping your emotional well-being.

Contact details

Sas Otto is an accredited mediator from Stellenbosch who worked as a teacher from 1976 to 2010 and on contract in the field of education from 2012 to 2017. He offers mediation in various fields, in person as well as online.

Website: https://sasotto.co.za/so/wp/

Email: sas@sasotto.co.za

WhatsApp: 082 771 5635

LinkedIn: Sas Otto Mediator

The Social Justice Foundation, a network of accredited mediators, also offering training:

https://www.socialjustice.co.za/

https://socialjustice.org.za/

The free podcast series Calm, Clear & Helpful is available on iTunes, Spotify, Player FM and Iono.fm.

Music by Mart-Marie Snyman

Thumbnail image: Unsplash

Photograph of Sas Otto: supplied