Become a Mentor

Your experience can help someone move forward.

Choosing a course of study, preparing for a first job, or learning to manage new responsibilities can be easier with someone to turn to. Share your knowledge and encouragement with a young adult through St. James Institute.

Program overview

Share what you know. Encourage what comes next.

Mentoring begins with listening and understanding a young person’s interests and goals. Depending on your experience and current needs, your contribution could include:

Illustration of a student considering education and career paths.

Explore education and careers

Help a young person understand a profession or trade, compare study options, and ask useful questions about their future.

Illustration of a student preparing for work through a CV, interview, and communication skills.

Prepare for the workplace

Share practical advice on résumés, interviews, communication, teamwork, and the responsibilities of working life.

Illustration of a student taking steps toward a goal with a plan and clear priorities.

Build everyday confidence

Offer encouragement as a young person sets goals, organizes their time, solves problems, and learns from experience.

The dignity, privacy, and well-being of the young people we serve come first. Expressing interest does not guarantee a role or placement. Participation involving young people is subject to review and applicable safeguarding requirements.

What makes a good mentor?

Mentoring begins with listening and understanding a young person’s interests and goals. Depending on your experience and current needs, your contribution could include:You do not need to have all the answers. We welcome people who listen patiently, share their experience honestly, and follow through on their commitments.

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Mentors should respect each young person’s dignity, privacy, and ability to make their own decisions. They also need to work with our team and respect the Catholic mission of St. James Institute.

A conversation comes first

Tell us about yourself

Share your background, the knowledge or skills you could offer, where you are based, and your general availability.

Explore a suitable role

Together, we can discuss current needs and whether your experience could be useful. The format, frequency, and duration of any involvement are agreed before you begin.

Prepare to participate

Any mentoring role is subject to review and the preparation and safeguarding requirements that apply. Contact with young people is coordinated through St. James Institute.

Submitting an inquiry is an expression of interest and does not guarantee a placement.

Could you help a young person take their next step?

You do not need to have everything figured out before contacting us. Tell us a little about yourself or your organization and how you hope to help. We can explore the possibilities together.Tell us a little about your experience and how you would like to contribute. We would be glad to explore the possibilities with you.