On Wednesday 21st April, mothers and daughters participating in Mosaic’s primary school mentoring programme were hosted by staff and student ambassadors at SOAS University (School of Oriental and African studies).
Schools visiting the university included Woolmore Primary (Tower Hamlets), Bygrove Primary (Tower Hamlets) and Gatton Primary (Tooting)
As part of the visit, participants took part in workshops led by student ambassadors and a tour of the university campus, which for many was their first taste of university life in the UK.
Mosaic’s primary school mentoring programme provides a unique programme that aims to raise aspirations of young Muslim girls and to help empower their mothers so that they are better able to support their daughters fulfil their potential.
The scheme is designed to help create a family environment where young Muslim girls are encouraged and supported by their mothers to continue their studies and achieve their goals.
The scheme seeks to equip young girls with the skills to connect education to work at an early age by bringing in female mentors from professional backgrounds to act as role models, so that girls can aspire to careers in a range of different sectors. Mothers participate in lessons that teach them the importance of education and how to support their daughters through school and beyond.
Mosaic’s female mentors share with students and mothers their own experiences, give insights into their personal and professional lives, and help facilitate the lessons run by teachers and tutors. Lessons with the girls cover themes such as confidence, communication, and role models, while for mothers they look at understanding the British education system. Included is a trip to a London University and a graduation ceremony. Our mentors attend at least five out of ten lessons, building up good relationships with their mentees, bringing the project to life with examples of balancing work with family, what it means to be a good citizen, and the role of women in society.
If you would like to be a mentor or for more information on our Primary schools mentoring programme, please contact Saad Awan, Campaigns Manager at saad.awan@bitc.org.uk
