Study Buddies
Out-of-school learning
If you have a child who would benefit from accessing educational opportunities in the community, tailored to their needs, our Study Buddies service can help encourage them with their learning.
At the beginning of their journey, children aged 5-18 years old are carefully matched with a volunteer who they meet once a week. This fosters a consistent routine and helps children build positive relationships with trusted adults using community-based learning.
This leads to:
increased self-esteem.
experiencing new interactive and educational activities.
finding ways to make homework fun.
creating a supportive learning environment.
If a child could benefit from additional support for learning, we can signpost or refer them, and parents/carers to relevant specialist resources and support them to engage with these services.
Read the case study below about Millie* aged 11, to learn more about how Study Buddies can make a difference to children and families.
Millie’s experience
Over the next two years, while meeting with her volunteer Study Buddy, her confidence and academic engagement significantly increased.
She applied to become house captain at school, after being encouraged by her study buddy. She wasn't selected, but she began demonstrating strong leadership skills and gained self-belief after being appointed as her class Technology Leader supporting younger pupils in school.
Her teacher explained that Millie had:
“Started choosing more challenging maths work and she regularly contributed to class discussions.”
She built her confidence in public spaces and saw learning as something that can happen outside of a classroom. Her study buddy sessions included wider learning opportunities through visiting local museums, galleries and Dynamic Earth.
Her mum's confidence also improved as a result of her daughter accessing our service. She attended parents’ evenings and felt more able to engage with school staff.
*The name has been changed to protect their identity.
FAQs
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If your child needs help with their study habits, school projects or homework, our Study Buddies can support them to increase their motivation and create a personalised routine.
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Your child will be supported with practical study skills. This service is not formal tutoring.
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Our matching process depends on volunteer availability and service prioritisation. If we can’t provide support as quickly as you need it, and you agree, we will help identify other options and continue supporting you as a parent or carer where relevant.
Get in touch to find out more about Study Buddies.