We know that with the time pressures most people face, mentoring may seem like a major commitment, but it takes as little as 4 hours a month to be part of the school’s mentoring programme; 4 hours to make a difference in the life of a young person by encouraging them to explore their greatest potential.
The key tasks include: listening to what young people have to say; accepting them for who they are and where they are in their life; admiring their unique gifts and talents; modelling positive and healthy behaviour; praising them for any attempt to progress and being open minded on issues that young people face as a generation.
How young people would benefit from having a mentor:
- Positive role model
- Build resilience, confidence and self-esteem
- Raise their aspirations, but also help them develop the practical skills that they need in order to achieve their goals
- Gain an insight into the world of work and career skills training
- Prepares the young people for their post-secondary future whilst also instilling a sense of active citizenship
- Improved academic performance, behaviour and wellbeing
What mentor will gain from being a mentor:
- Skills in communication with young people and leadership
- Build greater empathy and understanding of community issues and the barriers facing young people in their communities
- Increased confidence and self-esteem due to the rewarding feeling of helping others
- Feel physically and mentally healthier
- Valuable personal development
What kind of person do you need to be?
- We’re looking for people who’ve experienced life and its many challenges. People who are willing to look inside themselves and share our commitment to invest time and energy into the future generation.
The qualities we look for in our volunteers are:
- Reliability and commitment to continually develop a supportive relationship
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, particularly listening skills
- Ability to be non-judgemental, self-aware/ reflective, patient, flexible, and positive
- Ability to relate and empathise with young people
Mentors must meet these criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Agree to pre-checks and pass DBS requirements
- Receive orientation and training sessions
- Meet in person with mentees at least four (4) hours per month
If you would like to receive more information on becoming a School-Based Mentor, please contact Vivian Mushati – vivian@iscre.org.uk.
