FAQs for Academic Mentors

Answers to commonly asked questions about becoming an Academic Mentor 2022-2023

Have a question about the National Tutoring Programme that you can’t see below? Please contact us and a member of our team will be in touch.

What is an Academic Mentor?

Academic Mentors work closely with individuals and small groups in primary and secondary schools, offering tutoring across a range of subjects and ages. Academic Mentors work as part of the wider school team, developing and delivering bespoke support plans to enable pupils to achieve their academic goals. The role gives a great insight into teaching and could help support future applications for teacher training.

Is ongoing support available throughout placement?

All Academic Mentors will complete a fully funded online training course with Education Development Trust, covering a range of learning units.

The course will last between 8 and 14 hours, depending on whether Academic Mentors have Qualified Teacher Status and ensures Academic Mentors are prepared to confidently step into the role.

Further support is available for all Academic Mentors throughout their placements, including access to bespoke webinars focused on topics such as wellness, pedagogy, and managing stress in the workplace. All Academic Mentors will also be assigned an in-school mentor to support them in their new role.

When do Academic Mentors find out if they have been successful?

Applications to register with us as an Academic Mentor have now closed.

If you are currently registered with us, the last date for interviews with schools will be week commencing 5 February 2024.

You will know if you have been appointed by the school by 9 February 2024.

What other employment options are there within education?

You can get advice and support on alternative career options within the education sector using the links below.

To explore roles within quality-assured tuition partners, find the full list of tuition partners on GOV.UK.
To receive support and advice on how to become a teacher, visit Get Into Teaching.
To learn about teaching in the further education sector, visit Teach In Further Education.
To explore careers in education, visit the National Careers Service.

Where can I find out more about Cognition Education?

To find out more about Cognition Education, visit Cognition Learning Group or follow us on LinkedIn and X to learn more.

For further information on the National Tutoring Programme, read the NTP guidance for schools.

How do I apply?