Mentorship refers to a personal developmental relationship in which a more experienced or more knowledgeable person helps a less experienced or less knowledgeable person.

A number of studies have revealed a correlation between a young person’s involvement in a quality mentoring relationship and positive outcomes in the areas of school, mental health, problem behavior and health. School based mentorship works to;

• Improve academic performance, in general, with significant improvements demonstrated in the subjects of science and written and oral language
• Improve the quality of class work
• Increase the number of homework and in-class assignments turned in
• Reduce serious school infractions, such as disciplinary referrals, fighting, and suspensions
• Increase students’ perceptions of school and academic performance
• Reduce skipping classes

Mentors can serve in a variety of roles, again, depending on the level of commitment in the relationship. The role of a mentor varies, depending upon the level of commitment established by both the mentor and mentee.

Types of mentoring relationships include:

• Teacher, trainer, coach
• Positive role model
• Opener of doors
• Protector
• Sponsor
• Successful leader