Belgravia Foundation launches Mentor Project pilot program
Last year Belgravia Foundation was awarded funding from Swimming Australia to trial a project to transform the way swim teachers are supported to welcome and include people of disability and diversity into aquatic experiences. The All In Project aims to improve swim teacher confidence and capacity to support under-represented groups within the community and therefore increase the participation levels of groups of people who often miss out.
The Mentor Project, an aligning element to the All In Project, aims to provide on-site support to swim teachers from leaders within the venue; Aquatics Coordinators and Inclusion Coordinators, to provide “on the spot” guidance and advice related to access and inclusion goals. Developed by expert learning company Path Hunting, the initiative is spread across a three-month period providing best practice resources for both mentors and mentees. The project incorporates components including; an online e-learning program, resource pack, leadership forums, goal setting activities and a “mentors club” discussion platform.
A trial of the Mentor Project recently commenced with five Belgravia Leisure operated venues in Australia. These venues include:
This trial phase of the Mentor Project will allow for data to be collected on the effectiveness of the program and have front line team members provide feedback and input into the refinement of the program before launching it to another fifteen venues as a part of the All In Project.
The Mentor Project has purposely been designed to allow for all leisure industry staff to benefit. The principles of the program can be used for health club, group fitness and customer service staff to promote mentoring and on-site support for access and inclusion related matters. When a greater number of staff feel confident and capable to support people with varying needs and preferences, it will provide greater opportunities for people to participate from under-represented communities.
