Developing the Young Workforce North Highland

Overview

MCR Pathways has been running a mentoring programme in Wick High School since 2022. Each year, up to 45 young people are supported by volunteer adults from the Caithness community.

The young people on our programme face challenges in their life through no fault of their own. They may find going to school more difficult than their peers and struggle to stay on track to realise their potential. Some extra support and encouragement can help them find their path to a positive future.

MCR mentors come from all walks of life, professions and age groups. You do not need to have had prior experience of mentoring. A mentor spends one hour per week, during term time, in the school with their young person.

Mentors come from a wide variety of employment experience. Many mentor as part of volunteer hours through their workplace. Having a mentor is a fantastic way for young people to gain insight and inspiration into local industry and employment opportunities. Mentors also report back on how much they gain; improved communication skills, personal wellbeing and understanding next generation employees better.

Hear from those involved

At Wick High School, mentors and young people are supported by Diane Sinclair, the MCR Pathways Coordinator.

Diane explains, ‘I carefully match each mentor and mentee on shared hobbies, interests and personality. I tell my mentors, it’s all about being yourself and getting to know what makes the young person tick. A meeting might involve a board game, a kick about with a ball, a walk, a guitar jam, some baking, or helping to fill out a college application. Many pairs like to just have a good chat!’

When James joined the programme in S2, he was shy, struggling to mix at school and finding some subjects very hard. He started meeting his mentor Rob in S3 and quickly found they both enjoyed chess. This developed into easy conversation each week and Rob often helped James with his homework and talked about future options to explore. When James said he was interested in being a mechanic in S4, Rob was there to work with the school to find James a weekly placement at a local Wick garage.

James says, ‘I really enjoy my time at the garage. They have kept me on for longer than planned. That feels good. I am really thankful to Rob for being there for me, having a mentor is really helpful.’

Rob says ‘We are so proud of everything James has achieved through his own dedication. He now has a part-time job, and is close to finishing school. I’d highly recommend being a mentor, watching James grow in confidence has been so rewarding, and it’s a lot of fun.’

Get involved

MCR Pathways are looking for more adults to mentor for one hour per week from August 2025 onwards. You can register at any time in the year.

If you are an individual who would like to know more about mentoring, visit the link below: https://mcrpathways.org/become-a-mentor/

Find out which schools take part: https://mcrpathways.org/where-we-are/

If your business would like to know more about what it means for employees to volunteer their time as a mentor, the team can provide short information sessions in person or virtually. Please get in touch: highland@mcrpathways.org.