Peer Mentoring Program

Peer Learning Program

Our Peer Learning Program is designed to provide information, guidance and advice for students to help them navigate the demands of the BVA program. It provides opportunities to develop supportive relationships and role-modelling exchanges between students of different experience levels. 

Homework Spaces
There are two dedicated studios for students to use in the T+S building for homework. They are T1, which is next to the Library on the middle floor, and G.14 which is a small studio nearest the South Courtyard entrance on the ground floor. They will always be unlocked and available for students to use for homework. If you need to pin on the walls, use G.14 rather than T1.

Computer and Microsoft Office workshops
Workshops are offered throughout the year to help students improve their confidence using software programs relevant to their studies. Workshops are led by current students who understand what it’s like to be new to tertiary study and inexperienced with certain technologies. 

Peer Mentoring Program 
Peer Mentoring is a peer-led academic assistance program, designed to help students understand key concepts and content within units and take steps towards study success. Find out more and how to register below:

 

Peer Mentoring Program

The Peer Mentoring Program is a peer-led academic assistance program, designed to help students understand key concepts and content within units and take steps towards study success.

About

The Peer Mentoring Program is a flexible support system which brings together students from different year levels to form one-to-one mentoring relationships. The program helps first-year students settle into their studies and the school community, offering an informal way to meet other students while also receiving peer-led academic assistance.

Students undertaking Level 1 units are paired with student mentors who have a record of high achievement in the Bachelor of Visual Art (BVA), who understand its challenges and can share first-hand experience. After developing a peer mentoring support plan with staff, Peer Mentors and Mentees will regularly meet across the semester, either in person at the school or over email.

The Peer Mentoring Program runs in both Semester 1 and 2. While the Program is primarily designed to assist commencing BVA students who are undertaking Level 1 units, we welcome all students who would like to join.

Ongoing support and resources for students participating in the program is provided by Andrew Herpich, Student Liaison Officer, and Monte Masi, Level 1 Coordinator.

Becoming a Mentor

Mentoring is a great way to develop your listening, communication and interpersonal skills through a structured and supported program. As a mentor you will engage with a positive and open attitude, and you should have an excellent understanding of the school’s Level 1 curriculum and services. 

Peer Mentoring is a voluntary program which is flexible, confidential, and fits around your availability and preferences. You will gain recognition of your skills and experience through a certificate of participation upon completion of the mentorship.

Mentor basic criteria

To be eligible to becoming a peer mentor, you must:

• Be currently enrolled in the ADVA, BVA or BVA (Hons) at ACSA
• Have completed one semester of full-time study or part-time equivalent (4 x Level 1 units) with a Credit average 
• Have one or more semesters remaining before completing your degree
• Agree to participate in a compulsory induction and preparation session before beginning your peer mentorship arrangement

Peer Mentors are expected to have the following basic competencies:

• Good knowledge of the school curriculum, facilities and existing support services
• High level communication skills, including cross-cultural sensitivity and active listening
• Professionalism, including punctuality and awareness of boundaries
• Ability to take initiative while adhering to policy and procedures

Becoming a Mentee

Being a mentee is a great opportunity to gain a supportive network in the first year of your degree. It gives you the opportunity to gain direct assistance from someone who has successfully completed the first year of the Bachelor of Visual Art program, who understands the challenges involved in tertiary study. As a mentee you will:

• Review unit material and improve different study skills
• Develop a network of supportive peers
• Increase your awareness of student support services
• Gain a sense of belonging at the school

Mentee basic criteria

To be eligible to becoming a mentee, you must:

• Be currently enrolled in the ADVA or BVA
• Have one or more semesters remaining before completing your degree
• Agree to participate in a compulsory induction and preparation session before beginning your peer mentorship arrangement

How to Register

If you are interested to be a Mentor or a Mentee simply fill out the Registration Form.

Once you have registered, a staff member will be in touch to discuss the next steps.

For any questions about the Program, contact Andrew Herpich, Student Liaison Officer: andrew.herpich@acsa.sa.edu.au