This was the second in a series of three mentoring programs held for year 10 students to prepare for their future careers.

Being a mentor is about helping young people identify their strengths and interests and is a positive place to start supporting students with their questions about the future.

Mentors have life experiences that can add a new perspective for young people, plus have access to many school and community resources for specialised information.

Students who wish to be a part of the program are assessed and after a group meeting, are matched with mentors.

Ross Milford, who was one of the instigators of the program, said they only had three mentors when they started.

“And now it has grown to 11 with more welcome to come on board,” he said.

“We have had an 80 to 90 per cent success rate with the students who go through the program and continue in their career paths.

“More teachers at the high school are becoming involved and we hope to run three programs a year.”

Mentor Pauline Cambourne started in August last year and said the program “was very rewarding”.

“You form a bond with the students and it’s not just the students who get a lot out of it, we do too.”

Student David Clode said he got everything he imagined he would out of the program.

“I went for a couple of interviews prior to starting the program as I am leaving at the end of the year to become a heavy vehicle mechanic,” he said.

“And I’ve been to one interview since the course and I certainly felt more confident.

“My tutor helped me with interview planning and also assisted me in getting my resume together.”

A breakfast was held last Thursday for the mentors and their students with certificates presented to all participants.

If anyone is interested in becoming a mentor contact either Dale Lovedale or Brad Dives at Dungog High School on 4992 3022.