What is GAP?

GAP is an amazing one to one mentoring opportunity which matches university students, from under-represented backgrounds, with a mentor from the Civil Service who has an expertise in a particular professional area. The programme aims to build confidence, aspiration and support future career choices, as well as enhancing communication skills and building new networks.

Mentees are encouraged to talk about their career aspirations and any opportunities or barriers they feel may prevent them from achieving their goals. The role of the mentor is to offer guidance and advice, as well as helping to identify solutions to support mentees to achieve their potential. 

Commitment

GAP should only be considered by students who are able to commit fully to the programme.  Mentors are giving up their own time and commitment to provide this support and it is essential that students do likewise. To take part in the programme students must commit to:

• Investing their time to engage with the mentor; typically, one hour a month for 6 months via digital platforms.
• Actively participating in the scheme, imparting/receiving advice and considering opportunities to develop.
• Completing feedback / evaluation forms to allow us to make improvements that will benefit others in future.
• Notifying the programme organisers of any changes, e.g. contact details, programme participation.

Sessions will take place a minimum of once a month via MS Teams/phone call for a period of 6 months. A guidebook will be provided to assist with conversation starters and session pointers.

Criteria

Students must come from lower socio-economic backgrounds (LSEB), an example may be that they received/were eligible for free school meals at any stage in their schooling, they receive a higher bursary, or their parents were unemployed or in routine/manual labour job roles. There will be questions in the application form that will determine this and students who don’t meet the criteria will be notified. Students who are eligible will be notified when they receive their match.

This programme is open to 2nd and 3rd year students, there is no limitations on the degree they are studying.  

How to apply

Applications close midnight 14th October - click here to apply

Mentee Information Sessions are running on 20th September 13:00-13.30 and 10th October 12:00-12:30.  To register contact the team on [email protected]