Mentoring Matters
Supported by
EdConnect Australia is proudly supported by The Ian Potter Foundation to collaborate with the Inner Northern Local Learning and Education Network (INLLEN) to create a Vocational Mentoring Exchange – Mentoring Matters.
The 10 week program delivered in schools, enables volunteer vocational mentors to share their life and vocational skills with VCAL (Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning) students to support and explore their career aspirations.
Our Vocational Mentors
- Consider career options
- Develop / update their career action plan and resume
- Strengthen their interview skills
- Participate in workplace tours
- Extend their network of contacts in diverse industries and occupations
The Ian Potter Foundation
The Ian Potter Foundation is a major Australian philanthropic foundation that supports and promotes excellence and innovation. The Foundation was established in 1964 by Australian financier, businessman and philanthropist, Sir Ian Potter (1902 – 1994). Grants are made through eight program areas which reflect Sir Ian’s interest in the arts, and his visionary approach to issues including the environment, science, medical research, education and community wellbeing.
The History
The program was originally piloted by INLLEN in 2017, which established the need and benefit for Vocational Mentoring for location students. The funding secured has enabled a three year program (2020-2022) to be delivered by INLLEN and EdConnect Australia.
It has been clearly identified that vocational mentoring is a key support in career exploration and job seeking for socially and economically disadvantaged young people. Vocational mentoring can help young people with limited social capital learn about the workplace, clarify their aspirations, extend their networks, and help find work opportunities.
The Future of the Program
EdConnect and INLLEN are exploring opportunities for the Vocational Mentoring Exchange, Mentoring Matters to extend beyond the three year funded program.