Learning mentors

Learning mentors usually work in educational settings with pupils of all abilities who need help to overcome difficulties that are getting in the way of their learning. 

The types of issues which may get in the way of learning can include family problems, bereavement, bullying, low self-confidence and poor study skills. Learning mentors develop one to one supportive relationships, and also work in group settings.

The work of a learning mentor could include:

• Identifying what difficulties are preventing the child or young person from reaching their full potential
• Agreeing targets for attendance, academic achievement, timekeeping and homework
• Helping pupils with study skills, revision and examination techniques
• Developing anti-bullying strategies
• Developing personal skills to improve self-confidence, self-esteem, and resilience
• Offering emotional support and motivation
• Supporting children and young people through personal crises
• Helping pupils to modify their behaviours using techniques such as anger management
• Working closely with teachers and other professionals, pupils' families and others
• Running clubs and drop-in sessions for pupils and their parents or carers
• Developing action plans, produce reports, case notes and monitor children's progress

"Learning mentors are making a significant effect on the attendance, behaviour, self-esteem and progress of the pupils they support... [learning mentors are] successful and highly valued... In 95% of the survey schools, inspectors judged that the mentoring programme made a positive contribution to the mainstream provision of the school as a whole, and had a beneficial effect on the behaviour of individual pupils and on their ability to learn and make progress."    Page 46, Excellence in Cities and Education Action Zones: management and impact (Ofsted, 2003)