Mentoring Programme
The Mentoring Programme provides the opportunity for pupils in S2-S6 in East Lothian High Schools to have their own mentor to meet with on a 1:1 basis once a month.
The content of the meetings is decided upon by the young person - to provide them with the support they need. Examples include:
- talking about what it's like to work in the industry they want to go into
- needing help with looking at jobs if they are unsure about what they want to do
- being nervous about going to University or College
- needing advice or support on planning for the future or addressing difficulties in school
Mentors come from a variety of backgrounds and are East Lothian Council staff or from external organisations, such as:
- ICT Specialists
- Youth Workers
- Project Managers
- Finance Managers
- Maintenance Staff
Meetings take place in school and the duration of the relationship will depend on the needs of the young person.
If you, as a student, are interested in getting involved with the Mentoring Programme, speak to your guidance teacher to discuss your options further. If you have any other questions, feel free to get in touch with East Lothian Works, asking about the scheme.
Find out more
- Apprenticeships.scot
- East Lothian Works Blog
- Edinburgh College
- Job Centre Plus
- Local Employability Directory
- My World of Work
- Skills Development Scotland
- The Guarantee
- UCAS
Catherine's story
Catherine's mum contacted East Lothian Works as she thought it might help her daughter, who was struggling at school.
"East Lothian Works has helped to push me out of my comfort zone.
My real passion is animals. I have grown up with dogs and I have my own German Shepherd and a rabbit so the chance to do the animal care course at the Bridges Project in Musselburgh was a fantastic opportunity.'' - Catherine
Growing confidence
East Lothian Works helped Catherine to try new things, developing her skills as well as her confidence. She took part in activities including, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Herbspace, travel training, and equine therapy, as well as a photography course. She created a calendar and volunteered in a local charity shop, where she met new people and built up new experiences.
Vital skills
During the Covid pandemic, East Lothian Works found new ways to continue to offer its services to young people like Catherine. This was to make sure that their progress continued. The team provided safe support virtually and offered creative learning opportunities as well as weekly virtual meetings, which often focused on other vital skills such as social development, health and mindfulness.
Looking to the future
The more Catherine did with the support of East Lothian Works, the more she flourished and became increasingly able to adapt to new environments and new responsibilities. Previously she really was uncertain as to what she wanted to do when she left school, but now she is willing to try new things.
"I'm now much more open minded. Perhaps I might go to college or university in the future, but I am also looking at the possibility of doing dog grooming," she said.