ABSTRACT
There is a growing body of evidence supporting the argument that children and young people can make significant and valuable contributions towards peace in their schools and wider social contexts most effectively when they are recognized as experts in their own lives. Therefore, ensuring young people are occupying leadership roles in the processes of reducing violence, managing conflict constructively, and building peace is of critical importance. This chapter explores child- and youth-led conflict coaching as a pedagogical tool that supports the advancement of peace in and around schools by promoting a pedagogy of peace and nonviolence and recognizing the expertise of young people in resolving conflicts. Focusing on the training approach of CRESST, a not-for-profit charity based in the UK, this chapter explores how conflict coaching seeks to develop agency and empower young people, increase understanding of others’ positions, perspectives, and needs, encourage empathy, and ultimately create a deep and transformative understanding of conflict and conflict resolution. These areas are critically discussed alongside current research in the field, theoretical and philosophical perspectives, and case study examples from young people, teachers, and school leaders.
