Mentors work mainly with Y10 and Y11 students on a one to one basis for a minimum of one school year – meetings are held at the school and are usually for about 45 minutes every two weeks.
Many schools seek mentors to help pupils to reach their full potential. The students agree to take part in the scheme and have approval from their parent/guardian. The discussions between student and mentor are confidential, save if an abuse issue arises.
The mentors offer the students support and guidance and help in building their self esteem, sense of achievement, communication skills and time management. Help is also available in finding out about future career opportunities together with further/higher education prospects.
The success of the scheme should not be measured by exam results alone but these do indicate a very significant improvement on predicted grades. The main attributes are:
- non judgemental
- empathetic approach to young people
- ability to communicate
- good listener
- skills in time management, and general motivation
Training sessions are run prior to introduction to the selected school and ongoing support is available at all times.