Template:Courier-OCT-25-24a

MENTORS HELP YOUNGSTERS EXPAND THEIR HORIZONS

Pupils at seven Surrey schools benefit from an award winning, relationship-based mentoring programme, working to level the playing field so all young people can achieve their ambitions. Several volunteers from Claygate are now mentoring students at Hinchley Wood School and other nearby secondary schools.

For too many young people, an unfair start means navigating life's toughest challenges alone. But mentoring builds confidence, instils belief, awakens ambitions, and expands their future horizons.

MCR Pathways, which runs the programme in various parts of the country, launched in Surrey schools in 2022 and, since then, nearly 600 young people have been supported with dedicated mentors contributing more than 7,600 hours of mentoring.

There is always a need for more mentors. No specific skills or prior experience are needed just a willingness to make a positive impact. Mentors dedicate one hour each week listening to and encouraging a young person in their school. There is a pressing need for volunteers at Sunbury Manor School.

Anyone interested in mentoring, or with questions, should contact Liz Grace, Partnerships Manager in Surrey, at liz.grace@mcrpathways.org. Or, anyone feeling ready to sign up, can visit: merpathways.org/become-a-mentor