Transforming Young Lives – School's Perspective on Mentoring
At Raise, we believe every young person who needs a mentor should have one. Schools across Australia are witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of Raise mentoring, as students develop confidence, resilience, and critical life skills through trusted connections with trained adults.
Why Mentoring Matters
In schools across Australia, educators share a common belief: youth mentoring isn't just beneficial - it's essential. From Sydney's Northern Beaches to Queensland's growing suburbs, educational leaders are witnessing the transformative power of mentoring in shaping young lives.
At Barrenjoey High School, Student Support Officer Huzzy Rodríguez observes that "in an ideal world, everyone would have a mentor". This sentiment echoes through hallways of schools nationwide, where educators see mentoring as a crucial bridge between academic education and life skills development.
More Than Just Academic Support
The impact is tangible across diverse school communities. At Concord High School, students have shown remarkable growth in three key areas: respect, confidence, and critical thinking.
"Through consistent engagement and support, the Raise mentors equipped our students with the tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally", shares their Head Teacher of Welfare.
For students navigating the complex social and emotional landscape of Years 8 and 9, mentoring provides vital support in managing common challenges like anxiety, self-esteem issues, and social confidence.
The Critical Timing of Year 8
Raise recommends Year 8 as the ideal time for early intervention, as it helps students build social confidence and a stronger sense of belonging. Schools like Northern Beaches Secondary College’s Manly Campus have seen firsthand how mentoring at this stage supports students’ wellbeing and personal growth. While Year 8 is the focus, some schools also include students from Year 9.
The impact of having a trusted mentor at this age is widely recognised. As the Principal of Coorparoo State Secondary College explains, "For teens navigating their formative years and everything that high school brings, the importance of having someone to talk to that you can trust at this age cannot be overstated. It is during this crucial stage of development that everyone needs someone to turn to—someone to guide and inspire them through the challenges they face day to day."
Measurable Impact on Student Wellbeing
The results speak for themselves. Schools report:
- Decreased need for wellbeing support services among program participants
- Improved attendance rates
- Enhanced communication skills and help-seeking behaviours
- Stronger engagement in education
- Increased self-confidence and resilience
At Holland Park State High School, staff noticed that "students attending Raise don't need to access Wellbeing Support as regularly as they did prior to their participation in the program." This reduction in support service demands demonstrates the program's effectiveness in building student resilience.
A Ripple Effect of Positivity
The influence of mentoring extends beyond individual mentees—it creates a ripple effect throughout entire school communities. Students who have participated in the program often share their experiences with peers, generating interest and fostering a culture of support.
The Hills Sports High School reports that "students say it's the best part about coming to school. Most of the students don't want the program to end and ask to be in the program again." This enthusiasm reflects the deep connections formed between mentors and mentees.
Creating Lasting Change
Fort Street High School's decade long partnership with Raise has shown that the benefits extend far beyond the program's duration. Their youth worker notes that participants have "blossomed, improved their communication skills and help seeking behaviours significantly and gone on to take on leadership positions within our school."
Many principals have expressed strong support for prioritising Raise for students, and parents consistently share positive feedback about the program's lasting impact on their children.
“My daughter is more open to conversation with me. It has tremendously helped our relationship!”- Richard, parent.
Looking Ahead
At Raise, we are committed to expanding our reach so that every young person who needs a mentor can have one. Schools are key partners in making this vision a reality. The evidence of mentoring's value is undeniable, with some programs running successfully in schools for over 10 years.
With each passing year, more schools are recognising the invaluable role of mentoring in supporting student wellbeing. Schools like Barrenjoey High are welcoming Raise back for their 11th year, eager to continue making a difference in young lives.
A Call to Action
For those considering becoming a mentor, know that your impact goes beyond the weekly sessions. You're not just supporting a student—you're helping build a more resilient, confident, and capable generation of young people.
The time is now. Every young person deserves a mentor, and schools are ready to welcome you into their communities. Will you answer the call?
If you're interested in becoming a mentor and making a difference in a young person's life, visit here to learn more about how you can get involved.
