National Mentoring

Reaching Wider Mentoring Programme.

The mentoring programme provides on-line 1:1 support to learners aged between 14 – 25 in education. Each learner is matched with a mentor studying at a university or college in Wales.  Mentors offer advice, and guidance about life after school including: educational pathways such as college, university and apprenticeships. The mentees are supported to develop their study skills, revision techniques and  research career pathways. The mentoring programme empowers learners to make informed choices.

How does it work?

Connecting Bright Minds

The mentoring program uses Brightside’s platform to match mentees with suitable mentors. Mentees can choose from the top five recommended mentors using a matching questionnaire, empowering them to select their preferred mentor. Mentors share personal experiences and offer advice on career and education. Weekly topics, like funding, study skills, and interviews, help mentor-mentee pairs develop relevant skills.

  • Mentees access a range of resources from Bright Knowledge, covering careers, education, and student life, helping them make informed decision-making.
  • Mentors receive ongoing support and additional training, including sessions on working with care-experienced individuals, being an effective mentor and encouraging engagement.

What is involved in our mentoring programme?

  • Using Brightside’s platform, we connect mentees with suitable mentors who can help guide them using their personal experiences and advice on career and educational prospects.
  • Mentees are matched with mentors through Brightside’s platform.
  • Mentees receive bespoke guidance and signposting to information on education and careers of interest.
  • Support to identify their transferable skills.
  • Support with study skills and techniques.
  • Empowering young people to make informed choices.
National On-line Mentoring Project

Aim: To support young people from the Reaching Wider target groups to access Further Education, Higher Education and Apprenticeships.

Duration: 10 week project

Aimed at: Year 11 to Year 13 or equivalent qualification studying at FE

Project content:

  • 1:1 mentoring support given by a current student studying a degree or equivalent at a Welsh FE and HE institution.
  • Free weekly bilingual courses, including study skills, applications, and wellbeing.
  • Engagement recognition, through certificates and awards.
  • Resources to support Open Day visits.
  • 24/7 access to the Mentoring Padlet with information, useful links and guides.
  • Face-to-face and on-line support from the Reaching Wider Mentoring Team.
STEM On-line Mentoring Project

Aim:  To support learners to access Apprenticeships, Further and Higher education, with a particular focus on targeting STEM subjects and future careers.

Duration: 8-week project

Aimed at: Year 9 and 10 students

Project content:

  • 1:1 mentoring from a current FE/ HE student who is studying a STEM based degree or equivalent.
  • Access to pre-recorded masterclasses presented by subject experts.
  • ‘Meet the Expert’ session at school with an industry expert.
  • Visit a local STEM business.
  • Engagement recognition, through certificates and awards..

Face-to-face and on-line support from the Reaching Wider Mentoring Team

Young Carers On-line Mentoring Project

Aim:  To support young carers access Apprenticeships, Further and Higher education.

Duration: 8-week project

Aimed at: Young Carers aged 14-25

Project content:

  • 1:1 mentoring from a current FE/HE student who has caring experience.
  • Free weekly online courses for young carers covering careers, wellbeing, and finances.
  • Engagement recognition, through certificates and awards.
  • Face-to-face and on-line support from the Reaching Wider Mentoring Team.