Learning Mentor

Our Learning Mentor – Mrs. Atherton


At Rossington St Michael’s, we are so proud to have Mrs. Atherton as our dedicated Learning Mentor.

Her role is to support children with behavioural, social, emotional and special educational needs, helping them to thrive in all aspects of school life. By working closely with pupils, families and staff, Mrs. Atherton helps to remove barriers to learning, promote well-being and ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

What is a Learning Mentor?

A Learning Mentor works with children and families to provide support, advice and guidance during challenging times. At the heart of her work are our Christian values, which underpin the nurturing and inclusive environment we strive to create.

A Learning Mentor can:

  • Be a trusted, non-judgemental listener
  • Offer practical support and encouragement
  • Promote positive behaviour
  • Build resilience, confidence, and self-esteem
  • Help identify and address barriers to learning
  • Set achievable targets for improvement

 

Who does Mrs Atherton work with?

  • Individual children and small groups

  • Teachers and support staff

  • Parents and carers

  • External professionals including:

    Social Services
    Police
    Health Professionals
    Education Welfare Officers
    School Nurses / CAMHS / Children’s Centres

 

The Role of the  Learning Mentor

For Children:

  • Build confidence, motivation, and emotional resilience
  • Develop social skills and improve relationships
  • Improve attendance and punctuality
  • Address behavioural or emotional challenges
  • Help children fulfil their academic potential

For Families:

  • Strengthen communication between home and school
  • Provide a confidential space to talk
  • Offer support in accessing external services

For School:

  • Strengthen partnerships with families and agencies
  • Support effective pastoral care
  • Help reduce behavioural issues and promote inclusion

Which children are likely to benefit?

Any child may benefit, particularly those who:

  • Struggle with friendships or social interaction
  • Experience emotional or behavioural challenge
  • Have special or additional needs
  • Are often late or absent
  • Live with family challenges (e.g. illness, bereavement, housing, financial stress)
  • Have low self-confidence or motivation
  • Are experiencing trauma or change, such as divorce or being in care

 

What strategies does Mrs Atherton use to help a child further or reach their full potential?

  • 1:1 mentoring sessions tailored to specific needs
  • Small group work (e.g. friendships, resilience, confidence)
  • Behaviour and emotional support interventions
  • Encouragement through interests and hobbies
  • Peer mentoring and buddy systems
  • Close liaison with families and external agencies

 

What can parents / carers do to help?

  • Talk to your child about their school experience
  • Share any concerns with Mrs. Atherton or your child’s teacher
  • Engage with support offered by school
  • Attend parent events and meetings
  • Stay updated through school newsletters and our website

 

Working Together


Mrs. Atherton is here to support both pupils and families, helping to create a positive learning environment where every child can flourish. A strong partnership between school and home is essential to ensure your child’s well-being and success.

If you’d like to speak with Mrs. Atherton, please contact the school office on 01302 868284.