Learning Mentors work with school and college students and pupils to help them address barriers (and potential barriers) to learning through supportive one-to-one relationships and sometimes small group work.

They help students develop coping strategies, enhance their motivation, raise their aspirations and encourage them to re-engage in learning. to work effectively, learning mentors have to take into account the range of complex issues that usually lay behind problems with learning and achievement (eg, bereavement, lack of confidence/low self-esteem, low aspirations, mental health issues, relationship difficulties, bullying, peer pressure, family issues/concerns).

To become a learning mentor you should be able to:

• offer a sympathetic ear to young people with a range of behavioural, emotional and learning difficulties
• relate to young people with a wide range of abilities and often from diverse social backgrounds
• jointly develop plans of action to help young people overcome barriers to achieving their full potential
• liaise with parents and carers
• work as part of a team in school.

Entry requirements vary from area to area, depending on the level and complexity of expected practice. They range from GCSE level to degree/equivalent and related vocational qualifications. Mature applicants are often welcomed and there is no set age limit. Some schools might feel that they need mentors from a particular ethnic or linguistic background.