The Community Mentoring (CM) programme is a unique inter-institutional and community-based mentoring programme that is comprised of Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art Design and Technology (IADT), Marino Institute of Education (MIE), National College of Art and Design (NCAD), Royal College of Surgeons (RCSI), Trinity College Dublin (TCD) and University College Dublin (UCD). Community Mentoring is supported by the PATH (Programme for Access to Higher Education).

Community Mentors are drawn from under-represented groups at third-level and are there to inspire students like them and increase mentees’ confidence in relation to higher education. Ultimately, at the highest-level Community Mentoring aims to improve the levels of diversity in higher education and increase equity of access for all communities. Research shows that students who take part in mentoring show higher well-being and are more likely to progress to further or higher education.

The programme offers free online training modules for both mentors and educators so you can recruit and train mentors from your own community. The programme also provides mentors and mentees with support and resources. Community Mentoring sessions can take place either online or in person. One student who took part in the programme said:

“I will remember that no matter what you like and decide to do there is always a place for you and I will remember to think carefully about my future”.

To access the modules and find out more about the programme please visit https://www.collegeaware.ie/community-mentors