In 2019 MADALAH introduced a mentoring program which saw MADALAH Alumni and/or current tertiary students return to their secondary schools to mentor the 214 year 7-12 students who were on a scholarship with us. Mentoring is a proven approach to drive learning and personal development, with other benefits including increased engagement and support (both academically and personally). The mentoring program sees our mentors visit each of our 16 partner schools twice a term; delivering tailored sessions that explore themes such as Storytelling & Role Modelling, Mental Health & Well-being and Leadership for example.

The students are given the opportunity to talk about their day/week and their future aspirations, as well as participate in team building activities that look at motivating students to work together and develop their strengths. In 2020 our mentors will also attend and join in with our partner school’s NAIDOC Celebrations. Our mentors are also available for 1-1 mentoring and/or academic tutoring as requested. We believe these sessions are meaningful for all involved and only add to the wrap around support already provided to students by MADALAH, the Indigenous Liaison Officers and the wider staff teams at each of our partner schools.