We spoke to Affiah, 15, about her experiences with MCR Pathways, one of our charity partners

I was struggling with school, and I just needed extra support with my behaviour. 

My mentor's name is Annette, we get on well. Sometimes we talk about school, about whatever really. It's actually quite good because I can tell her anything, and she helps and guides me through it. I can trust her and she's easy to talk to.

My behaviour has changed. I do focus more in lessons. My teachers have noticed a difference in me and I'm enjoying school more now. 

Annette taught me to be who I am and just try my hardest. 

MCR Pathways is a national mentoring charity dedicated to address the deep-rooted inequality in education outcomes, career opportunities and life chances for young people in care and from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Young Herts Talent is a school-based mentoring programme that matches volunteer mentors with secondary school students to support them through one-to-one mentoring sessions in school for one period a week.