As the Marketing Manager at Plus Accounting, a Brighton-based independent chartered accountancy firm, I had the privilege of participating in a Mentoring Programme at Brighton Aldridge Community Academy (BACA) in Falmer.
This initiative aimed to support Year 7 students who faced challenges transitioning from primary to secondary school due to the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Led by the enthusiastic Headteacher, Jack Davies, the Mentoring Programme sought to instill confidence, encourage curiosity, and provide a sense of belonging in these young individuals as they embarked on their secondary school journey.
Meeting the Students:
Over the course of five mentoring sessions, held from February to the end of the academic year in July, I was paired with four incredible students. This diverse group of boys and girls had unique perspectives and experiences, each contributing their own valuable insights on school life, self-discovery, and the vibrant Brighton community.
Building Connections:
The initial sessions were dedicated to introductions, where we shared our backgrounds and aspirations. It was heartening to witness the students’ eagerness to connect and engage with one another. We quickly established a supportive and open environment, setting the stage for the conversations ahead.
Exploring Perspectives:
As the sessions progressed, we delved into more thought-provoking discussions, encouraging the students to express their thoughts and ask questions.
Mapping Change:
We engaged the students in creating word maps, focusing on the changes they wished to see in both their school and the wider Brighton community. This exercise encouraged them to think critically about their surroundings, empowering them to envision a positive future and take an active role in shaping it.
Reflecting on Milestones:
As the end of Year 7 approached, we celebrated the students’ achievements and progress. Highlighting the challenges they overcame and the growth they experienced throughout the year. It was a moment to acknowledge their resilience and perseverance.
Embracing the Summer:
We bid farewell to Year 7 and embraced the upcoming summer break. We encouraged the students to cherish the lessons learned, enjoy a well-deserved break, and return to school in Year 8 with renewed enthusiasm and excitement.
The Mentoring Programme at BACA was a remarkable experience for both the students and mentors involved. Through open dialogue, encouraging them to question, and empowering them to express their ideas, we created a sense of confidence, in an initially overwhelming secondary school environment.
By empowering these young minds to envision change and encouraging them to be active contributors to their school and city, we laid the foundation for a future generation of engaged and motivated individuals.
As a mentor, it was immensely rewarding to witness the students’ progression, and I am grateful to have played a part in their journey. I hope that initiatives like these continue to flourish, enabling young individuals to thrive and make a positive impact on their communities.
Author: Victoria King, Marketing Manager
Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal, belong solely to the blog owner and do not represent those of Plus Accounting. All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.
Date published: 17 July 2023