A Manchester Academy mentor has been presented with a Mosaic ‘School Heroes’ award by Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, during a visit to Manchester.

The School Heroes ‘Volunteer of the Quarter’ award recognises school partners who go above and beyond their commitments to Mosaic, giving up their time to make its mentoring programmes a reality and a success. Jane Delfino MBE, director of employability at Manchester Academy, received the award in recognition of her outstanding support of Mosaic’s secondary school programme. The scheme aims to raise the aspirations of 11-18 year olds, providing them with the skills to succeed in school and improving their employability.

Presenting the award to Jane at an event at the British Muslim Heritage Centre was Nick Clegg. Jane said: “I am delighted to receive this School Hero award, and particularly thrilled I got to meet the Deputy Prime Minister. Mosaic’s mentoring programme helps Manchester Academy to turn these young people into employable and skilled citizens, with the capacity to give back to the community in positive ways.”

Jane is no stranger to awards, having previously received a Queen’s Honour for her work. On hand to congratulate her was Mosaic’s north west regional manager, Nafisa Hakim. She said: “Jane’s passion to spread the word about the power of mentoring is an inspiration to us all. This award recognises her incredible work across Manchester and the North West, which has helped Mosaic to support many more young people in disadvantaged communities.”

The award was presented at a joint event with the Patchwork Foundation, involving students from Manchester Academy, Manchester Islamic High School for Girls and Parrs Wood School. Students also had the opportunity to put questions to Mr Clegg in a ‘Q&A’ session.

Mosaic is currently recruiting volunteers in Manchester who can give a few hours a month to mentor young people.