Vacancy overview

Job Description

We ask all our learning mentors to commit to working with the young person for at least one hour each week (excluding travel time) for a period of at least 6 months. Mentoring takes place between 4pm and 8pm. If you are unable to make this commitment or have a holiday of more than 7 days planned during your placement, please call us or email us to discuss this, as we may still be able to find you a role with a mentee.

Duties

• To work with a young person in order to provide support with homework and study skills, and improving their opportunities for accessing learning;

• To enhance the young person’s confidence and self-esteem, and to encourage high (but realistic) expectations and aspirations;

• To work sensitively and appropriately with the young person, being aware of cultural difference, personal boundaries and the power dynamics at work in all mentoring relationships;

• If the young person is preparing for GCSEs, to provide subject-specific support and assistance with revision and preparation for exams;

• To promote the young person’s understanding and use of English (if needed);

• To undertake induction required for this role

• After initial introductions, to take responsibility for arranging weekly sessions directly with the project worker, and letting them know if you are unwell or unable to attend;

• To report any concerns which might arise straight away to the project worker;

• To be committed to our project’s policies on Equal Opportunities, Health & Safety and Confidentiality (copies provided at induction), and to promote Equal Opportunities whenever possible.

Essential Requirements 

• Good rapport with children and young people;

• A desire to stretch the expectations and achievements of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds;

• Familiarity with study skills/problem solving approaches to working

• Reliability and commitment;

• A friendly, helpful, anti-discriminatory and enthusiastic approach.

Desirable Requirements

• Subject-specific knowledge in one or a number of examination subjects at GCSE and/or A level (only required if working with young person preparing for GCSEs);

• Previous experience of working with children or young people;

• Knowledge of issues affecting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly around barriers to education;

• Knowledge of UK education system;