Mrs Bell is our Learning Mentor working across all the classes in school to provide additional emotional support for children who may need it. Her role primarily focuses on supporting children overcome the things that may prevent them from gaining the most benefit from their time at school. Mrs Bell is based in our Rainbow room, a safe space for our children to relax and talk through any worries they may have.
What is a Learning Mentor?
A Learning Mentor works within a school to help children and families with any difficulties they may be experiencing. They are there to listen, offer support and practical advice and promote our core Christian Values. Mrs Bell is also ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) trained and runs many ELSA sessions for individuals and groups.
A Learning Mentor is here to:
- Listen
- Offer support
- Promote positive behaviour
- Offer encouragement and build self-esteem, resilience and confidence
- Identify any barriers to learning and set targets to overcome them
Who does a Learning Mentor work with?
- Individuals and groups of children
- Teachers and other members of staff i.e. support/welfare staff
- Parents/carers
- Other Schools
- External agencies such as; Social Services, Police, Health Professionals, Education Welfare Service, Family Action, School Doctor/Nurse/ CAMHS
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
- Provide a vital link between the families and our Vicar where appropriate
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 a 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 – focusing 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 our 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.
Mrs Bell, our Learning Mentor is here to support and encourage both pupils and families to overcome challenges and any barriers to effective learning both inside and outside school. In order for this to be achieved realistically, excellent communication between school and home is essential. Please make an appointment via the office if you wish to speak with her about your child.
ELSA leaflet
