Mentoring programme helps students thrive

A mentoring programme is helping young people in Sunderland build confidence, raise aspirations and unlock future opportunities through one-to-one support.

Academy 360, in partnership with national mentoring charity MCR Pathways, is delivering an award-winning initiative that matches students with volunteer mentors throughout the school year.

One student benefiting from the programme is Angel, who says having a trusted adult to meet with every Wednesday has helped build confidence and provided valuable support. 

Her mentor, Diane, is one of a growing number of volunteers giving their time to help young people recognise their strengths and realise their potential.

Angel said: “Mentoring means somebody who can be a big influence in your life. 

“Somebody who you can trust to tell them things in your life, and they can help you.

“When I see Diane, I don’t have to think about any of that. 

“I can just sit and play Monopoly. 

“It just takes my mind off it, and it’s getting it out. 

“My mum passed away and, sometimes, I just need someone to talk about it. 

“Diane has always been really supportive, helpful and kind about it.”

Diane added: “It always makes me feel positive and gives me a lift. 

“Seeing Angel so positive means everything. 

“It’s just an hour a week, and I try to tell everyone I meet to do it and become a volunteer mentor.

“For me, mentoring is about being in the moment, having fun and listening. 

“It’s important that Angel has someone she trusts to talk to about her emotions.

“She’s on a journey right now and it’s about taking things at her own pace. 

“She can do whatever she wants in the future; she's got the skills, she’s got the confidence and she’s so smart.”

Mentors meet with students for around an hour each week, offering encouragement, guidance and a consistent adult presence in a safe school environment. 

Shared experiences, interests and career ambitions often help build trust and confidence over time.

The initiative forms part of MCR Pathways’ expansion across the North East, increasing access to school-based mentoring and helping more young people overcome barriers to success.

Claire Usher, assistant principal (secondary) at Academy 360, added: “MCR Pathways has been an amazing support to our school community, providing our young people with the consistent, dedicated guidance they need to truly thrive. 

“The unique bond between students and their mentors has unlocked potential that many did not know they possessed, boosting their confidence, resilience, and academic focus. 

“Watching these relationships flourish and seeing our students grow into ambitious, self-assured young adults is incredibly rewarding, and we are immensely proud of everything they continue to achieve through this invaluable programme.”

The charity is encouraging adults from all backgrounds to volunteer as mentors at Academy 360, committing just one hour a week to support local students.

By fostering long-term relationships, the programme aims to broaden aspirations, improve resilience and create brighter futures for young people across Sunderland.

Find out more about the programme by watching Diane’s story here and Angel’s story here.

Adults interested in becoming a volunteer mentor can register here.

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