Peer Support

Digital Mentors work as part of a team during term time, and are paid at the national working wage.

The role consists of a mixture of peer and digital support, administrative tasks and presenting to, or working with, groups of students, on how to use Blackboard and other USW systems. 
Organising and carrying out Volunteer Mentor training is also a key element of the role as is becoming an Academic Integrity Champion.  

Comprehensive training is provided for all aspects of the role.  

We typically look to recruit new DMs for the next academic year during the spring and summer terms.

Peer Support Voluntary Mentors introduce themselves to new students and offer support with the practical aspects of studying and living at USW.

Mentors proactively connect with their mentee group, ideally during induction, and maintain communication throughout the early weeks.

Volunteering includes completing a short training course and submitting a profile to confirm participation.

PASS Leaders support first or foundation-year students with academic expectations through weekly, hour-long sessions. They share course knowledge and help develop key skills via peer-support activities.

To become a PASS leader, you need approval from academic staff, and you must complete a half-day training session.

Commitments include introducing yourself to the new cohort, encouraging session participation, and planning sessions using the facilitation techniques learned in training.