MCR Pathways Mentoring Programme at Excelsior

Excelsior Academy 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, staying motivated, or simply having someone to talk to, MCR Pathways helps pupils thrive in school and beyond.

MCR Pathways 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 consistent, trusted relationship.

Meet Emily Mitchell – MCR Pathways Co-ordinator at Excelsior Academy

Emily Mitchell is our dedicated in-school MCR Pathways Co-ordinator, supporting both mentors and mentees throughout the programme. She’s your main point of contact if you’re interested in getting involved, want to ask questions, or would like to learn more.

Email Emily: Emily.Mitchell@excelsiornewcastle.org.uk

A short video introducing Emily and the programme will be added here soon – check back for updates!

Programme Overview

MCR mentoring is designed to begin early and grow with pupils as they move through school:

• Year 7 and Year 8: Pupils take part in group sessions and one-to-one activities to build confidence, communication skills and resilience.

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

Mentoring sessions are relaxed and pupil-led. Activities might include chatting about shared interests, reading together, or simply providing a quiet, consistent space to talk and be heard.

Become a Mentor – Make a Difference

MCR Pathways mentors commit just one hour per week during the school day, but that small amount of time can have a big impact. Many young people just need someone who will show up, listen and help them see their own strengths.

Who Can Be a Mentor?

• No special qualifications are needed, 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 paid for by MCR Pathways.

If you can spare one hour a week, you can help change a young person’s future.

Benefits to Pupils

MCR mentoring has a proven, positive impact on young people:

• Improved confidence and communication

• Better engagement and attendance in school

• Higher progression into college, university, apprenticeships, or employment

• A stronger sense of wellbeing and self-belief

Sometimes, just knowing someone is there for them makes all the difference.

How to Become a Mentor

If you're interested in becoming a mentor at Excelsior Academy:

Contact Emily: Emily.Mitchell@excelsiornewcastle.org.uk
Apply now: Apply to become an MCR Pathways mentor

You can also visit the national website to learn more: www.mcrpathways.org

Together, We Can Inspire a Generation

Through MCR Pathways, Excelsior Academy is helping to unlock potential and open up brighter futures for our pupils. Join us in making a lasting difference — one hour, once a week.