Boy studentBoy student

Be The Mentor You Wish You'd Had

The Boys’ Network is a simple and effective mentoring programme that prepares boys for the world of work whilst raising their aspirations too. It uses an online platform connecting men in business, from all over the country, with students aged 14-16yrs.

We believe that men in industry can offer a wide range of experience in topics relative to the world of work. There is a real enthusiasm amongst our network of mentors; they are excited to share knowledge and insight, advice and support. 

Man in triangle

What's Involved?

Hear three of our Mentors share their thoughts and reflections of being a Mentor to a student on our Boy’s Network programme.

Mentors

Video

Video:
Becoming a Mentor
2:26
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Guidance & Mentorship

We are looking for men who hold or have held a supervisory role, who  can commit to one hour with one student, once a month for 10 months.

The programme is really simple and it’s run online. This means that no matter where you are in the country, if you are able to get online, you would be able to mentor on  our programme.

Tony March
Tino Zisengwe
Paul Weedon
Simon Hanson
Carl Clarkson
Anthony Pollard
Simon Parker
Isaac Hammond
Jeff Doran
Geoff Baxter
Andrew Young
Colin Jackson

Pathway To Success

With mentors serving as influential guides, The Boys’ Network explores 10 topics that prepare and impact students by combining real-world expertise and first-hand experiences, so that students gain invaluable insights into the realities of the world of work.

Student with Tablet
Session 1
How to be Emotionally Intelligent

Emotional intelligence is all about understanding yourself and others. It's not just about being smart - it's about knowing how to manage emotions, react to situations, and connect with people. Whether it's with family, in class or with friends, Mentors guide students through strategies to help them handle challenges and build better relationships.

Session 2
How to Respond Well to Change

In this session, students explore how to respond positively to change, developing resilience and adaptability for both school and future careers. Through discussion with their mentors, they learn to manage uncertainty, stay proactive and reframe challenges as opportunities, gaining confidence to navigate change with a growth mindset.

Session 3
How to Resolve Conflict

In this session, students discuss practical strategies for resolving conflict in a constructive and respectful way. Mentors help students to explore different perspectives, understand effective communication techniques and how to manage emotions.

Session 4
How to Be Resilient

Mentors help students to learn how to build resilience in the face of challenges. They offer real-life examples, help students to explore how to stay focused, how to push through setbacks and keep moving forward. By exploring these strategies, students become more equipped to tackle obstacles and grow stronger from difficult experiences.

Session 5
How to Be a Team Player

Students learn the importance of being a strong team player, focussing on the importance of collaboration, communication and supporting others. Mentors help them to explore how to work effectively with different personalities, share responsibilities and contribute to a team's success.

Session 6
How to Manage Your Time

Students and their mentors discuss practical strategies for managing their time effectively, understanding that balancing schoolwork, activities and personal commitments now, help them in their future. Exploring techniques such as prioritisation, setting goals and avoiding procrastination sets them on a path towards success.

Session 7
How to Understand Personal Finance

In this session, students gain a clear understanding of personal finance, learning how to manage their money, budget effectively, and make informed financial decisions. Through practical exercises, they explore saving, spending and the importance of planning for the future.

Session 8
How to Budget Your Money

With the guidance of their mentor, students learn the key principles of budgeting, including how to track income and expenses, set goals and manage spending. They think about their future and discuss how to make smart financial decisions and how to avoid unnecessary debt.

Session 9
How to Ace your Interview

Mentors help students understand what interview questions really mean, what interviewers are actually looking for and how to best represent themselves. Students gain valuable insight from the very people who have experience in hiring, learning how to leave a lasting impression.

Session 10
How to Take the Next Step

The future is further away than tomorrow, and yet the decisions students make today can determine what happens in their future. Mentors guide the coaching session by asking questions to help students consider what their greatest development need is, what they can do develop in that area and consider what difference it's going to make to their future.

How To Become A Mentor

We have a simple 4-step application process to get mentors checked and signed up. If you have any questions, you can check out the FAQ's section or get in touch.

1

Send enquiry

Fill out the simple form below to start your application process.

2

Meet our ceo

Schedule an Informal interview & chat with our CEO, Stephen.

3

Application Form

We'll send you a link to fill out the full application form.

4

dbs check

Apply for a DBS certificate to clear you for work with students.

Start Your Application

What You Need To Know

Below are some of the common questions we get asked about our Mentoring programmes. If there is anything you need to know that isn't directly answered below, please get in touch.

How come it's just for boys?
How are the students selected?
How are the sessions run?
What time do the sessions run from until?
How many students will I have?
What happens if I can't make a session?
How are students matched with mentors?
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What People Say

M10 Mentoring provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to personal and future development, giving students the tools and strategies they need to succeed in both their studies and their future careers.

“Some of my colleagues wondered why, when I’m so busy, would I take on a role like this? I felt it was important to give something back and be there for the lads so they could have a go at a successful future too.”

Mentor

"Being a mentor is very rewarding. I can see how this programme would have benefitted me when I was their age. And the mentees thoughts on the subject we cover give me a fresh outlook - it's a win win!"

Mentor

"Negative press stereotypes of the entitled, needy Gen Z are rubbish. These are keen, smart and able individuals who want to do their best in a world that is arguably more challenging than when I entered the world of work."

Mentor

"It has opened my eyes to the challenge that is presented to young people in the current climate and how someone, like myself, can have a positive impact in helping prepare them for that challenge through the provision of aa small amount of time."

Mentor

"I think if I had a mentor at the same stage of life, it would habe helped me on my journey that little bit quicker and made the ride more enjoyable. It would have helped me come to terms with the fact that I am 'enough' exactly as I am, and that it's okay to bring my whole self to work."

Mentor

"Mentoring has helped me understand just how scary and confusing the prospect of the world of work can be for young people and has personally made me reassess how I approach developing new starters in our business, especially when they are straight out of school."

Mentor

Become a Mentor

To apply to become part of our network of mentors, or to find out more information, please fill out the form below. One of our team will be in touch to discuss your application.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
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Corporate Partnerships

This voluntary opportunity is an effective way for businesses to demonstrate their corporate social responsibility. Your company may be interested in partnering with us as part of your ESG strategy.

British Heart Foundation
Capita
Gherkin
Home Group
NHS
North Tyneside Learning Trust
North of Tyne Combined Authority
Northumbria Police
Sage
Salesforce
Saltbox
Staffvetting.com
The Culture Guy
The Pulse Rooms
Wave
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Our programme is designed to provide the mentees with an opportunity to learn from the real life experiences of their mentors as well as help you meet your CSR objectives.

We will help you meet your company CSR objectives, by providing the following:

Simple and enjoyable ONLINE volunteering opportunity - ONE hour, with ONE student, ONCE a month for TEN months
Demonstrate your commitment to positive social change by directly benefiting young people in your local community
Develop your employee skills including; communication, problem solving, active listening and coaching

For more information, click the button below to explore our Business Partnership options.