Learning Mentor

Our Learning Mentor- Mrs Atherton.

Her role includes supporting children with behavioural, social, emotional needs and special educational needs, working with them to support the development of their well-being and thus enabling them to reach their potential.  As a learning mentor, she is here to support your child by working alongside you during their time at Rossington St Michael’s C of E Primary School. Her role primarily focuses on helping children overcome the things that prevent them from gaining the most benefit from their time at school.

What is a Learning Mentor?

The Learning Mentor works within our school to help children and families with any difficulties they may be experiencing.  She is there to listen, offer support and practical advice and promote our core Christian Values.

A Learning Mentor is here to:

  • Listen
  • Offer support
  • Promote positive behaviour
  • Offer encouragement and build self-esteem, resilience and confidence
  • Identify the barriers to learning and set targets

 

Who does the Learning Mentor work with?

  • Individuals and groups of children
  • Teachers and other members of staff i.e. support/welfare staff
  • Parents/carers
  • Schools
  • External agencies such as; Social Services, Police, Health Professionals, Education Welfare Service, School Doctor/Nurse/ CAMHS / Children’s centre

 

The Role of the  Learning Mentor

For Children

  • Build confidence, raise self-esteem, build resilience and motivation
  • Improve social skills, form relationships with friends, family and staff
  • Improve attendance and punctuality
  • Remove barriers to learning
  • Help children to achieve their potential

 

For Families:

  • Improve support and communication between home and school
  • Access to outside agencies and someone to talk to in confidence

 

For school:

  • More effective and efficient communication between parents/carers, teachers and outside agencies
  • Effective pastoral care
  • Reduction in anti-social behaviour

 

Which children are likely to benefit?

There are many young people and families who benefit from being supported by the Learning Mentor, especially those who receive no extra support out of school.

These children include:

  • Children who need support with social skills and relationships
  • Children with specific needs – attachment disorder/ neglect issues etc.
  • Poor attendees and/or late
  • Underachievers
  • Lack of resilience, self-esteem/motivation /confidence
  • Who have difficulties at home – (e.g. financial worries, anxiety/ stress/ mental health issues/ relationship breakdowns etc.)
  • Are ‘looked after’ children
  • Children with behavioural needs
  • Victims of abuse
  • Bereavement
  • Medical problems
  • Children with emotional needs

 

What strategies does the Learning Mentor use to help a child further or reach their full potential?

  • 1:1 mentoring session to discuss problems and address how these may be overcome
  • Individual sessions focusing on particular issues such as behaviour, bullying, attendance etc.
  • Group activities – focussing on specific areas – such as resilience, self-esteem, friendships etc.
  • Utilisation of Childs own hobbies or interests to enhance performance
  • Peer mentoring and the buddy system
  • Liaise with parents and other agencies where necessary.

 

What can parents / carers do to help?

  • Discuss any concerns with the Learning Mentor
  • Talk to your child about concerns they may have and contact the school
  • Seek advice and support from the Learning Mentor at any time
  • Attend parents evening
  • Keep up to date with school news letters
  • Read school website on a regular basis.

 

The Learning Mentor is here to support, encourage both pupils and families to overcome challenges and any barriers to effective and creative learning both inside school and outside school.  In order for this to be achieved realistically, excellent communication between school and home is essential.