Online Volunteer Mentor (12 Weeks) – Support the #BeMeDigitalInclusion program at Academy Achievers
As a mentor in our 12-week #BeMedigitalinclusion program, you'll directly guide young women on their STEM journeys through small group mentorship. These online sessions (via Google Meets, Microsoft Teams or Zoom) will provide academic support, career guidance, and goal setting assistance, all within a supportive small group environment. You'll be a positive role model, inspiring confidence, resilience, and a passion for STEM as you empower them to develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in STEM careers. Collaboration with program coordinators, teachers, other mentors, and the mentees themselves is key to ensuring an enriching experience. Training and resources are provided.
Duties:
Group Mentoring Sessions
- Lead group mentoring sessions for students interested in STEM disciplines.
- Create a safe and inclusive space for mentees to share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations.
- Facilitate discussions on various STEM and required topics, encouraging active participation and collaboration among mentees.
Knowledge Enrichment Sessions
- Curate and deliver engaging STEM-related knowledge enrichment sessions, drawing from your expertise and experiences.
- Share insights, resources, and practical skills to inspire and empower mentees to pursue their interests in STEM.
- Incorporate hands-on activities, experiments, or demonstrations to enhance learning and spark curiosity among mentees.
Academic and Career Goal Setting
- Assist mentees in setting realistic and achievable academic and career goals within the STEM field.
- Provide guidance on course selection, extracurricular activities, internships, and other opportunities to support their goals.
- Help mentees develop action plans and strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve their objectives.
Hands-On Experience and Guidance
- Utilise your background in STEM to offer mentees hands-on experience, resources, and guidance.
- Arrange opportunities for mentees to participate in STEM-related projects, research, or competitions.
- Provide mentorship and support as mentees explore different aspects of STEM, helping them discover their strengths and interests.
Progress Monitoring and Feedback
- Monitor mentee progress towards their academic and career goals, tracking achievements and identifying areas for improvement.
- Offer regular feedback and constructive criticism to help mentees grow and develop their skills.
- Celebrate successes and milestones with mentees, reinforcing their confidence and motivation.
Fostering a Supportive Environment
- Foster a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM.
- Encourage mentees from underrepresented groups to pursue STEM careers and advocate for diversity initiatives.
- Address any issues or concerns related to bias, discrimination, or lack of representation, creating a welcoming and respectful atmosphere for all mentees.
Program Alignment
- Strong understanding of Academy Achievers' mission and goals, particularly related to the #BeMeDigitalInclusion program.
- Make a real difference in the lives of young women by empowering them to explore and pursue careers in STEM.
- Share your experiences and expertise while inspiring confidence, resilience, and curiosity in the next generation of STEM leaders.
- Connect with a supportive community of mentors who share your passion for education and inclusion.
- Enjoy the flexibility of online mentoring sessions, allowing you to contribute from anywhere while making a meaningful impact.
- Witness firsthand the growth and achievements of your mentees, celebrating milestones and successes along their STEM journey.
- Develop mentoring, coaching, and communication skills while guiding young women through academic and career pathways.
- Gain experience in planning and delivering engaging STEM-focused enrichment sessions, including hands-on activities and interactive discussions.
- Enhance your leadership and teamwork abilities by collaborating with program coordinators and fellow mentors.
- Learn strategies to support diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM, helping to create a more inclusive environment for underrepresented groups.
- Expand your professional network and gain insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the next generation of STEM professionals.
- GCSE/Level 2 equivalent in Maths and English
- Level 3 NVQ in STEM related field (desirable)
- Previous experience in volunteer mentoring, coaching, and tutoring, preferably in STEM.
- Strong knowledge of STEM subjects and the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
- Familiarity with STEM education initiatives and programs.
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of students.
- Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM education and careers.
- Proficient in using relevant software and digital tools (Google Workspace, Slack, Asana, Google Meets and Microsoft Teams) for data management and communication.
- Availability to dedicate a flexible number of hours per week/month to volunteer activities.
- Positive Role Model: A professional demeanour, strong work ethic, and a passion for inspiring young women in STEM fields.
- Enhanced DBS checked - paper copy of certificate and DBS Update service (preferred).
Competencies:
- Academic advising
- Conflict management
- Collaboration and working on your own initiative
- Adaptability and empathy
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organisational skills with attention to detail.
- Decision making and problem solving
Physical requirements & Conditions:
- Ability to stand, sit, and move around for extended periods during events or workshops.
- Flexibility to work indoors and outdoors, potentially in varying weather conditions, depending on event locations.
Personal attributes:
You must act with a high degree of integrity and your conduct should always be exemplary when interacting with children and young people, staff, and external stakeholders. You are expected to display motivation, commitment and conscientiousness. You will demonstrate respect for equal opportunities and diversity. You must have the ability to show respect for the opinions and feelings of colleagues, students and group leaders regardless of their race, religion, background, nationality, ethnicity, age, appearance, gender or sexual orientation.
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