Learning mentor

You could take a college course to help you get started in this career. Courses include:

• Level 2 Award in Mentoring
• Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools
• Level 3 Award in Information and Advice for Supporting Learner Progression
• T level in Education

Entry requirements

You may need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to T levels
• funding advice
• search for courses

You can do an advanced learning mentor apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You can volunteer to mentor children or young people.

You can apply directly to get into this type of work. You'll normally need:

• a good standard of general education, especially in literacy and numeracy
• experience of working with children or young people, either through paid work or volunteering

Experience of other types of mentoring outside of education may also be helpful. Examples are peer-to-peer mentoring on anti-bullying projects, supporting people with disabilities or helping young people with health-related issues.

Further information

You can find out more about working in learning support from FE Advice.

You'll need:

• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• knowledge of psychology
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• sensitivity and understanding
• customer service skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of English language
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

In your day-to-day duties you may:

• develop one-to-one mentoring relationships with pupils
• visit parents at home to give them advice about dealing with issues and concerns
• develop action plans for students and monitor their progress
• work closely with teachers and other professionals, like social workers, educational psychologists and education welfare officers

You could work at a client's home, at a school or at a college.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.