Growing2gether Nursery Programme
What if the key to transforming vulnerable teenagers’ lives wasn’t just mentorship but mentoring in reverse? Unlike traditional interventions that treat young people as recipients of help, we empower them as giver.
This model is proven to build confidence and self-esteem, develop social, emotional and behavioural skills and re-engage young people in school and the community. In addition, the experience provides life and employment skills training. This innovative programme was developed in partnership with young people, communities, schools and the Highland local authority.
The Programme
At Growing2gether, we empower young people aged 14 to 16 by giving them the opportunity to mentor nursery children needing extra support. Rather than being treated as recipients of help, they step into leadership roles - becoming positive role models, developing emotional intelligence and gaining real work experience within their communities.
Our 16 to 18 week nursery placements are supported by weekly group sessions led by trained facilitators using positive psychology. They explore topics like self-esteem, self-management and understanding behaviour. This combination of hands-on mentoring and structured personal development builds mental health, confidence and life skills that last.
The programme leads to a nationally recognised SCQF Level 4 Qualification in Personal Development, supported by the University of the Highlands and Islands.
Our impact is clear: participants show significant reductions in anxiety and depression, increased self-belief and stronger engagement in education.
That’s more than data. That’s transformation. When a young person transforms, the ripple effect is unstoppable.
Growing2gether doesn’t just change the lives of teenagers - it reshapes entire families and communities.
I am so thankful I chose to do Growing2gether and that there was an opportunity like this. I know the others felt the same. We were treated with respect. Wish I could do it again.
We can see that the children benefit from this 1 on 1 time. The young people are really staying focused with the children and support them well. They show initiative and also really importantly understand that the children need to do things for themselves.
Nursery Teacher, Cauldeen Primary School