BECOME A STUDY BUDDY MENTOR

The program requires one tutoring session per week (one hour) for a minimum six-month commitment. Sessions take place at a mutually-agreeable location (e.g. library) with safe Covid-19 protocols or the sessions can be virtual after school or on weekends. The program runs through the summer depending on the needs of the Little Study Buddy and the match’s summer schedule. We encourage our new matches to continue to meet over the summer because even if they aren’t working on homework, they’re building a stronger connection.

The program strives to do the following:

• Provide an academic role model to girls, non-binary, transgender and gender-diverse youth aged 7-19
• Increase educational performance
• Promote the importance of staying in school and increase school attendance
• Enhance educational goal-setting
• Decrease disruptive behaviour in school

Study Buddies work together to set appropriate educational goals for the Little. With the support of a Study Buddy tutor, Little Study Buddies are encouraged and equipped to improve their educational performance and meet their academic goals, which contributes to their overall self-esteem.

To become a Study Buddy mentor, you must be:

• Age 19 or older woman, non-binary, transgender or gender-diverse individual
• Mature, stable, reliable and respectful of others
• Canadian resident for the past year (or able to provide an International Criminal Records Check)
• Driver’s Abstract (if you will be driving the youth in your car)
• Able to commit to spending one hour a week with your Little Study Buddy for at least six months (yes, occasional vacations and work travel are fine!)
• Interested in helping a girl, non-binary, transgender or gender-diverse youth aged 7-19 reach their academic goals
• Have a high school diploma and some post-secondary (in-progress or complete)
• Have experience helping others learn
• Fluent in reading, writing, and speaking English
• As we work with vulnerable populations, vaccinations are highly recommended but not required

To access the application form, enter your info below!

Please feel free to contact info@bigsisters.bc.ca with any questions.

You will receive a confirmation email when you submit your application. 

• Once we begin to process your application, you will receive an email to let you know that your references will be contacted.
• Once all your references are complete, we will be in touch to register you for a virtual training session. 
• After you attend training, your caseworker will schedule an interview with you. 
• Finally, your application will be reviewed for acceptance.
• Once accepted, your caseworker will begin to look for a Study Buddy to match you with. Our intention is to create meaningful and long lasting matches, as such we try our best to consider your preferences and the needs of your Study Buddy and their families. We try to match you with a Study Buddy who lives in your area that needs academic support in your preferred subjects and grade level and other shared interests, when possible.
• Your caseworker will provide you and your Study Buddy with ongoing support and check-ins during your match.