Excellent results for Early Years Mentoring

Our latest evaluation reports show excellent results from our past cohorts in Highlands and Aberdeen.

A full 100% of the young people who completed our 2026 Early Years Mentoring programme achieved a Level 4 SCQF personal development qualification (Self in Community and Self Awareness units), and 79% said they had more confidence in their abilities. 

Growing2gether’s concept, pairing young people with nursery and primary school children, means two lives are changed at the same time. While supporting the children – who are themselves facing issues such as bullying, parental separation and educational disengagement – the young people rediscover their own sense of worth and purpose.

Looking after a young child who needs them builds a sense of belonging and confidence among the teenagers, who start engaging more with their schooling and communities. They also receive classroom coaching in social and emotional skills. 

Nieve, 14, said: I’ve enjoyed having responsibilities and looking after the kids. I got comfortable really fast, and so did they. It has given me skills, patience and happiness.”

Parents also agreed with the impact: “I’m extremely proud! He shows growth in confidence. He has thoroughly enjoyed this.” 

Nieve was part of the Nairn programme, which was supported by the Haventus Ardersier Port Community Benefit Fund, administered by Foundation Scotland.

Elaine Bennett, Growing2gether’s Director of Fundraising, said: 

“The support of the Haventus Ardersier Port Community Benefit Fund helps us improve young people’s quality of life by building their well-being and life skills. This ensures they attain at school, gain employment and overcome intergenerational poverty. As positive citizens, they won’t truant or engage in anti-social behaviour, which has a devastating effect on their communities.”

Debbie Herron, Community Fund Adviser at Foundation Scotland said:

“One of our roles is to support a panel of community representatives from the area who decide on funding awards from the applications submitted. The Panel were very impressed by the work of Growing2gether, and could see the significant potential of delivering this kind of programme for children and young people in the area.”

This form of early intervention is critical in Nairn, which is in the top 15% of deprivation (Scottish Index of Deprivation). Between 50-60% of Nairn Academy’s pupils also have Additional Support Needs. Highland's Community Planning Partnership (2023) identified those in poverty with ASN as needing early intervention. The Nairnshire Local Plan emphasises building a sense of belonging and wellbeing, fostering social interaction.

Growing2gether is the only charity in Scotland to use transpersonal, positive psychology to coach young people to recognise their strengths, manage emotions and build wellbeing. 

“Growing2gether differs from other interventions in its immersive approach to learning. Early Years mentoring gives participants a sense of purpose, responsibility and connection.” 

(2024 Teacher’s Survey).