Peer Mentoring at Birmingham Newman
At Birmingham Newman University, we believe in the power of students supporting students. Our Peer Mentoring programme is designed to help you settle into university life, build confidence, and reach your full potential – whether you’re just starting out or navigating new challenges along the way.
What is Peer Mentoring?
Peer Mentoring is all about connection. Experienced students—who’ve “been there and done that”—volunteer to support others in their academic journey. Through friendly, empathetic conversations, mentors help you reflect, grow, and feel part of the Newman community.
Mentoring is built on mutual respect, trust, and shared experience. It’s a space to ask questions, talk things through, and gain insight from someone who understands what it’s like to be a student here.
Our Approach
Grounded in research and best practice, our mentoring model encourages:
- Empathetic listening and mutual support
- Professional friendships and reflective conversations
- Inclusive practice and awareness of power dynamics
- Student-staff collaboration in designing and delivering mentoring activities
We offer mentoring in a variety of formats—face-to-face, online, or via platforms like Moodle and email—so you can connect in a way that works for you.
Types of Mentors
We offer a range of mentoring options to suit different needs:
- Welcome Mentors
Helping new students build friendships and settle in during their first year. - IT Mentors
Offering guidance on digital tools like Moodle, Mahara, Word, Excel, and more. - Peer-to-Peer Mentors
Providing general or course-specific advice to help you navigate university life. - BAME Peer Mentors
Supporting students from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds through individual or group mentoring. - Writing Mentors
Sharing tips and techniques to help improve your academic writing.
Recognition and Development
Mentors receive formal recognition through the HEAR process, and may be eligible for expense refunds or financial rewards. Staff involved in mentoring can use their contributions as evidence for CPD, HEA Fellowship, or contribution point applications.
Get Involved
Whether you’re looking for a mentor or interested in becoming one, we’d love to hear from you. Peer Mentoring is a great way to build skills, make connections, and contribute to the Birmingham Newman community.