FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
For Students
How do you decide on an appropriate mentor?
There are of course availability constraints. But these aside we attempt to match according to the student’s mathematical ambitions and preferences.
What will I get out of it?
Like most things in life – as much as you put in! You cannot learn maths without working problems. In other words, you can only learn maths by doing lots of problems.
How do I apply?
A nomination pack needs to be downloaded. It contains two forms, one of which must be completed by you and a parent/guardian, the other by a school teacher. If in any doubt just contact us and we'll talk you through the process.
For Parents
What are the eligibility criteria?
There are just two. An eagerness to learn and evidence of financial need or hardship. By the former we understand a commitment to attend the full course of mentoring and to come to each session appropriately prepared in terms of materials and attitude. For the latter we require evidence of some type of government support e.g. ABSTUDY, Youth Allowance, or a Health Care Card.
What is expected of me as a parent?
The success of our model hinges on the commitment of the student. We are NOT a tutoring service. In particular this means that although we understand that parents/guardians play an important role, first and foremost the engagement should be student initiated and maintained.
Who is the mentor?
We interview and obtain at least two references for all our potential mentors. Our mentors must have a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC). We are in contact with each mentor. Our responsibility and commitment is to ensure that volunteer mentors are appropriate at the outset.
What are the mentor's qualifications?
They are all studying toward, or have already completed, a mathematical degree (e.g. Maths, Physics, Engineering).
What will my child learn?
The mentoring sessions are all about the student and mentor doing maths together. The starting point may be anything from the most recent homework to past VCE exams. During each session, the enthusiastic expert (mentor) sees precisely how the student is tackling different mathematical problems and can quickly work to fill knowledge gaps, refine technique and broaden and deepen understanding. This is easy to do in online sessions.
What is the vetting process for mentors?
We interview and obtain at least two references for all our potential mentors. Our mentors must have a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC). We are in contact with each mentor.
For Mentors
How do I volunteer as a mentor?
Initially, contact us, we’ll get in touch and arrange to meet you online or in person.
How do you match me up with a student?
Scheduling constraints allowing, we try to match mentors with students according to mathematical/career interests. If you are on a career pathway which aligns particularly well with a particular student, we'll do our best to match you. Gender also plays a part – when possible we try to match according to the student’s request.
What qualifications/credentials do I need?
You need to be studying towards, or have completed, a technical degree (e.g. maths, physics, engineering etc.). Most importantly you should feel able to teach high school maths (1-on-1, very different from a class of 25!) at least to the level of year 12 Methods.
How many hours a week and for how long do I need to commit?
You meet your student online for about one to two hours per week for about the length of a school term. This is somewhat flexible, but you should be available for up to 18 hours each term. This may seem like a substantial commitment – it is. In return you will have the opportunity to make a real and tangible difference to the future of the young person you work with.
How far will I have to travel?
No travel at all, as all sessions are online.
What support processes are in place for mentors?
Our Board has a wealth of experience, stretching far beyond maths education. You will be looked after.
What if I want to change my mind?
If you are having second thoughts, don't hesitate to get in touch. We understand very well the commitment involved, but are here to support you at every turn.
What's in it for me?
This is difficult to quantify. Superficially you will of course be able to cite your experience with The Institute on your CV. Indeed, by the nature of how we operate, you will have become well-known to us as a team and so we'll be able to provide meaningful personal references. Beyond that though, you will have had an opportunity to “give something back”. Perhaps you are about to embark on a career, perhaps you're already well established, maybe you've retired. Whichever it is, you'll have extended a helping hand to someone for whom such opportunities are rare.