A typical session in the Mentoring Clubs for children aged 8–12 is designed as a student-centred “Educational Coaching” experience that replaces traditional instruction with active, project-based exploration.
While specific activities vary by project, a typical session follows this general structure:
1. Immersion in the “Learning Vehicle”
From the start, English is used as the learning vehicle rather than the main subject. Children don’t focus on grammar drills; instead, they use the language naturally to investigate, interact, and collaborate on the day’s tasks. The mentor provides scaffolding to ensure every child can communicate and understand the content, regardless of their starting level.
2. Active Project Investigation
The core of the session involves Project-Based Learning (PBL). Students work on real-world, meaningful projects that challenge them to solve complex problems over an extended period. This phase might involve:
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Evaluating online information to build digital literacy.
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Brainstorming and asking questions to develop critical thinking.
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Collaborating in teams, which requires practising empathy, conflict resolution, and cooperation.
3. Creative Play and Cross-Curricular Learning
Sessions integrate creative play with subjects like art, music, and design to nurture original thinking and curiosity. Children might explore scientific or social concepts through hands-on activities, ensuring they are not just “passively receiving information” but actively creating solutions.
4. Guided Reflection on “The Element”
A unique part of these sessions is the introduction to Sir Ken Robinson’s concept of “The Element”. The mentor leads guided activities and reflection where children investigate three core areas:
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Their strengths (what they are naturally good at).
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Their interests (what they love doing).
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Areas for growth. This helps children build self-awareness and discover the point where their talents and passions meet.
5. Creating and Presenting
Each project culminates in a real product, presentation, or solution. During a session, children spend time designing or refining these outputs—such as a video or poster—which helps them practice self-management, time management, and the responsibility for their own work.