We are very fortunate at St Mary’s to have our very own Learning Mentor, Mrs Claire O’Leary. She has a wealth of knowledge and fantastic resources to support our children.
Mrs O’Leary can be contacted by calling the school on 01273 418416, and she will call you back, or you can email her at: claireoleary@stmarys.brighton-hove.sch.uk
What is a Learning Mentor?
Mentors are used in schools to help children overcome difficulties that are getting in the way of their learning. Some common issues that may be getting in the way, known as “barriers to learning” are: poor concentration skills, low self confidence, bullying and friendship issues, transitions in school and/or home life, including family changes and bereavement. Mentoring is here to support children through these issues.
What are the Mentor’s aims?
To welcome, inspire, support, listen, share, guide and help children to achieve their full potential.
How does our Learning Mentor achieve this?
- Supporting the child to achieve their full potential
- Helping pupils with concentration and study skills
- Agreeing targets for academic achievement
- Developing anti-bullying strategies
- Identifying the difficulties a child is facing and how they can be overcome
- Developing personal skills to improve self-confidence, self-esteem and resilience
- Offering emotional support and motivation
- Working closely with teachers and other professionals, pupil’s family and other services
How long will a Mentor work with a child?
Time scales are very flexible, depending on the child’s needs. Sessions are usually for a period of 6 weeks, with follow up sessions thereafter, individually arranged.
What our children say:
I can share my feelings
I like playing games
Sorts out problems with my friends
Helps me get organised
Friendship Groups
Friendship enables everyone to have a “happy experience” at school. These groups enable children to explore the fields within friendships, the different issues surrounding the subject and the skills needed to be a good friend. Some of the group topics are:
- How to share and take turns without confrontation
- Working with children outside friendship groups
- How to be assertive without being controlling
- Sometimes your child may be included as a positive role model
