A mentoring program with a focus on teaching new skills and building self-confidence in primary and secondary school students has launched in Stawell.

Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network, CGLLEN,  leaders visited Stawell West Primary School and Stawell Secondary College to give students an opportunity to meet their new mentors as part of the organisation’s MATES mentoring program.

Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN originally developed the program to match nominated students with a positive role model from the community.

GGLLEN received a Northern Grampians Shire Council community grant to run its own pilot program in 2021.

CGLLEN acting executive officer Jane Moriarty said the program would help young people learn new skills, connect with the community and build self-confidence. “We are so excited to launch MATES in the Central Grampians region and connect our youth with people who will take an interest in their personal growth and development,” she said.

“It’s all about providing young people with someone they can talk to and learn from outside of home and school.”

Mentor Nerissa Gee said she was looking forward to participating in the program.

“Everyone had a great time getting to know each other at the launch and we are excited to reconnect after the school holidays,” she said.

Students and mentors will meet once a fortnight during school hours to participate in some of their shared interests.

People who would like to volunteer their time as a mentor can call CGLLEN on 5352 3266.

The entire April 14, 2021 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!