Meet our Family Learning Mentor Miss Ashworth.

Miss Ashworth is a qualified teacher who prior to teaching worked for the Family Well Being Service for over 9 years. She joined our team in January 2021 and brings with her over 14 years of experience of working with and supporting children, young adults and their families

“I graduated with a degree in Early Childhood Studies in 2005 from which I soon began working as a nursery nurse in a Pre-school. I had a very positive experience at the Pre-school but to further my skills and my career I decided to apply for children’s centre outreach worker positions. I was successful in gaining a post at Pear Tree Specialist School and was delighted that I would be furthering my skills to work with families but also work more closely with children with additional needs. I initially worked with children aged 0-5 years and their parents but this extended to a 0-19 year old service in time. I gained valuable experience of working in a multi-agency environment and also supporting families with needs out in the local community.

Throughout my time as an outreach worker I planned and delivered many courses including: a ‘school ready’ programme and parenting programmes. I worked closely with a wide range of agencies from health, education and social care, also providing support and training to some local settings and creating strong links in the community.

As a Teacher I have a passion for learning and strive to reflect this in every child I teach. My aim is to support children to have a love of learning, a love of play and a love for life

I look forward to meeting and getting to know all our families as you undertake your journey at Singleton School”

What is a Family Learning Mentor?

The Family Learning Mentor works within our school to help children and families with any difficulties they may be experiencing.  They are there to listen, offer support and practical advice and promote our core Christian Values.  They are informal educators.

A Family Learning Mentor is here to:

  • Listen
  • Offer support
  • Promote positive behaviour
  • Offer encouragement and build self-esteem, resilience and confidence
  • Identify the barriers to learning and set targets

Who does the Family Learning Mentor work with?

  • Individuals and groups of children
  • Teachers and other members of staff i.e. support/welfare staff
  • Parents/carers
  • Schools
  • External agencies such as; Social Services, Police, Health Professionals, Education Welfare Service, Sure Start, School Doctor/Nurse/ CAMHS/ Trinity Hospice / Children’s centre

The Role of the Family Learning Mentor

For Children

  • Build confidence, raise self-esteem, build resilience and motivation
  • Improve social skills, form relationships with friends, family and staff
  • Improve attendance and punctuality
  • Remove barriers to learning
  • Help children to achieve their potential

For Families:

  • Improve support and communication between home and school
  • Access to outside agencies and someone to talk to in confidence
  • Provide a vital link between the families and our Vicar where appropriate

For school:

  • More effective and efficient communication between parents/carers, teachers and outside agencies
  • Effective pastoral care
  • Reduction in anti-social behaviour

Which children are likely to benefit?

There are many young people and families who benefit from being supported by the Family Learning Mentor, especially those who receive no extra support out of school.

These children include:

  • Children who need support with social skills and relationships
  • Children with specific needs – attachment disorder/ neglect issues etc.
  • Poor attendees and/or late
  • Underachievers
  • Lack of resilience, self-esteem/motivation /confidence
  • Who have difficulties at home – (e.g. financial worries, anxiety/ stress/ mental health issues/ relationship breakdowns etc.)
  • Are ‘looked after’ children
  • Children with behavioural needs
  • Victims of abuse
  • Bereavement
  • Medical problems
  • Children with emotional needs

What strategies does the family Learning Mentor use to help a child further or reach their full potential?

  • 1:1 mentoring session to discuss problems and address how these may be overcome
  • Individual sessions focusing on particular issues such as behaviour, bullying, attendance etc.
  • Group activities – focussing on specific areas – such as resilience, self-esteem, friendships etc.
  • Utilisation of Childs own hobbies or interests to enhance performance
  • Peer mentoring and the buddy system
  • Liaise with parents and other agencies where necessary.

What can parents / carers do to help?

  • Discuss any concerns with the Family Learning Mentor
  • Talk to your child about concerns they may have and contact the school
  • Seek advice and support from the Family Learning Mentor at any time
  • Attend parents evening
  • Keep up to date with school news letters
  • Read school website on a regular basis.

The Family Learning Mentor is here to support, encourage both pupils and families to overcome challenges and any barriers to effective and creative learning both inside school and outside school.  In order for this to be achieved realistically, excellent communication between school and home is essential. 

Miss Ashworth is available both before and after school, please make an appointment via the office if you wish to speak with her about your child.