MCR Pathways Mentoring Programme at Academy 360

Academy 360 is proud to introduce the MCR Pathways mentoring programme.

This inspiring national initiative supports young people who will benefit from a little extra encouragement to reach their full potential. Whether it’s building confidence, finding motivation, or simply having someone to talk to, MCR Pathways helps pupils thrive in school and beyond.

MCR Pathways, standing for Motivation, Commitment and Resilience, believes that “Talent is everywhere – but opportunity is not.” That’s why the programme matches young people with a volunteer mentor who meets with them in school, once a week, to offer guidance, encouragement and a listening ear.

Meet Mia Littlewood – MCR Pathways Co-ordinator at Academy 360

Mia Littlewood is our dedicated in-school MCR Pathways Co-ordinator, responsible for supporting mentors and mentees throughout the programme. She is your first point of contact if you’d like to get involved, ask questions, or learn more about mentoring at Academy 360.

Email Mia: Mia.Littlewood@academy360.co.uk

A short introductory video from Mia will be added here soon – check back soon to hear more about the programme in her own words!

Programme Overview

MCR mentoring begins early to build confidence and continues through key transition years:

• Year 7 and Year 8: Pupils take part in group sessions and one-to-one activities designed to develop confidence, teamwork and emotional resilience to prepare them for the next stage of the programme. This covers sections such as 'Getting to Know You', 'Relationships and Team Building', 'Health and Wellbeing', 'Resilience', 'Community' and 'Skills for Life'.

• Year 9 and beyond: Pupils are matched with a trained volunteer mentor from the local community for weekly one-to-one mentoring sessions.

These mentoring sessions are relaxed and pupil-led. Activities might include chatting over shared interests, reading together, or doing simple activities like games or sports. The key is consistency and a genuine, supportive relationship.

Become a Mentor – Change a Life

MCR Pathways mentors commit just one hour per week during school time, but the impact can last a lifetime. Many young people need someone who will listen, believe in them and encourage them to see their own potential.

Who Can Be a Mentor?

• You don’t need any special qualifications, just time, patience and compassion.

• Mentors come from all walks of life and backgrounds.

• All volunteers complete a simple training process and an enhanced DBS check, which is fully paid for by the MCR funding.

If you can spare one hour a week, you can be the difference in a young person’s life.

Benefits to Pupils

Mentoring through MCR Pathways has a proven, measurable impact:

• Improved school attendance and engagement

• Increased confidence and self-esteem

• Higher rates of progression to college, university, apprenticeships, or employment

• Stronger relationships and improved emotional wellbeing

Many young people simply need someone to be there for them, someone who shows up, listens and encourages them to believe in themselves.

How to Become a Mentor

If you’re interested in becoming an MCR mentor at Academy 360:

Contact Mia: Mia.Littlewood@academy360.co.uk
Apply now: Apply to become an MCR Pathways mentor

You can also learn more about the national programme by visiting www.mcrpathways.org

Together, We Can Inspire a Generation

Through MCR Pathways, Academy 360 is helping to break down barriers and open up brighter futures for our young people. Join us in making a real difference — one hour, once a week.