Learn how you can support new students settle into their studies and life at Stirling.

 (Jump to the Mentor Application) 

 (Jump to Peer-Assisted Learning) 

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What is Steer Peer Mentoring?

Steer Peer Mentoring aims to assign peer mentors to each division across the university. It offers an opportunity for new and returning students to meet people and learn more about their course. Mentors will help students realise the academic and social opportunities available to them.

Who are the Steer Peer Mentors?

Steer Peer Mentors are students who have completed at least their first year of study in a similar course to their mentees. They understand what it is like to be a new student at Stirling.

Students' Union staff support our peer mentors and manage their training programme. During this training, mentors learn how to help new students make the transition to Stirling as smooth and enjoyable as possible. They have their own experiences and insight to turn to. This helps them cultivate a welcoming environment to aid in the social and academic development of new students.

Peer mentors will lead peer-assisted learning (PAL) sessions throughout the academic year to help mentees get to know their coursemates better and discuss any issues/concerns they may have.

What can peer mentors do?

Primarily, peer mentors will provide academic coaching. This includes helping guide students on effective study strategies, time management, and goal setting. They will also offer support in understanding course material, preparing for exams, and navigating academic resources.

Additionally, peer mentors can:

  • Support mentees in solving problems early.
  • Share their experiences so that mentees have an idea of what challenges they may face and what opportunities are available to them.
  • Help foster a sense of belonging by assisting mentees in learning about Stirling Unviersity.
  • Encourage mentees to get involved in the social side of Stirling University by joining societies and sports clubs.
  • Help mentees learn more about the Students' Union and how we can support them in making the most of their time at university.
  • Signpost to the support resources available on and off campus.

Some typical questions peer mentors can answer:

  • Where are my lectures, timetables, tutorials?
  • What's a module?
  • How can I contact my personal tutor?
  • Where's the library, and how do I take out a book?
  • How can Student Learning Services (SLS) help me?
  • What do I do if I don't think I chose the right course?
  • What student life opportunities are there, and how do I get involved in them?
  • What resources are there to get experience and improve my employability?
  • Where can I go for accessibility, advocacy, and/or mental health support?

Eligibility

 

All returning Stirling students are eligible to become Steer Peer Mentors.

We have already recruited mentors for the 25/26 academic year, but if you are keen to volunteer, please fill out the application form, and if there is significant demand for another mentor training session, we will arrange one.

If you are a department looking to set up a scheme for your students, please contact us

 

Application Form

 

Upon completion of the role, peer mentors will receive a certificate of achievement.

For more information on the role itself, please read the following Role Description

Please fill out the form below if you are interested in volunteering as a peer mentor.

(If you have trouble viewing the below form, click this link to apply.)

 
 

Key Contacts

For general enquiries, please email steer@stir.ac.uk


You may also contact the coordinator of the programme at jordyn.austin@stir.ac.uk

If you require any more information or assistance completing the application forms, please don't hesitate to contact us.

What is PAL?

 
  • Peer-assisted learning is support for students by students.
  • PAL sessions are regularly coordinated group study sessions or workshops.
  • It can help students increase academic confidence and boost resilience.  

 

Host a PAL session in your course

 
Use the below form to schedule your next PAL session: 

 

This is a pilot programme that has evolved from what was formerly known as Steer Peer Support. Please be patient with us as we continue to develop the programme to ensure we are providing the most useful service.

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