Local businesses are being invited to connect directly with the next generation workforce, as demand for student, mentoring at Buckinghamshire New University continues to grow.
The university is looking to recruit at least 40 mentors for its 2026/27 mentoring scheme, building on growth over the past year with mentor numbers more than doubling in the latest round.
The programme pairs students with professionals for one-to-one mentoring, helping them to build confidence, understand career pathways and gain a clearer sense of what working life is really like.
But it’s not just students who benefit.
Mentors gain direct insight from emerging talent – from how students are thinking about careers, to the skills, expectations and challenges shaping the future workforce.
Employer Liaison Officer Anoushka Abbimane said:
Students are telling us they want more than general careers advice – they want honest conversations with people already working in their field. At the same time, mentors often tell us they value the chance to hear fresh perspectives and stay connected to what’s coming next.
Students who take part say the scheme has a clear impact on their confidence and career direction.
“The mentoring programme helped me gain confidence, understand my strengths and explore a suitable career path. My mentor shared guidance and perspectives I had not considered before, which gave me greater clarity about my future direction.” – BNU Mentee, Criminology
“Having a mentor gave me someone to confide in, learn from and be encouraged by. The programme helped me build confidence, gain new perspectives and feel supported in my career journey.” – BNU Mentee, International Business Management
Interest in the scheme has grown as students look for more personalised support in a competitive job market, with many citing a lack of confidence, limited professional networks and uncertainty about how to move smoothly from university into work.
The scheme supports students from a wide range of subjects, from business and digital to creative and healthcare courses. However, gaps in mentor availability have meant some students – particularly in creative industries and health-related fields – were not matched with a mentor in the previous round.
The university is now calling on professionals from a broader mix of sectors to get involved, with immediate priority areas including:
- Creative Industries & Fine Art
- Teaching and Education
- Engineering and Aviation
- IT, Digital, Business, Law & Marketing
- Social Sciences, Social Work & Paramedics
“For many professionals, this is also about giving something back,” Anoushka added. “But it’s equally a chance to build connections, spot potential early and play a role in shaping future talent.”
Mentors also describe the experience as highly rewarding.
Taking part as a mentor in Buckinghamshire New University’s Mentoring Programme was a meaningful and rewarding experience. I supported a student in developing professional awareness, networking confidence and career readiness
Students who take part report increased confidence, clearer career direction and a stronger understanding of workplace expectations.
With student demand continuing to rise, the university is encouraging more local employers and professionals to take part ahead of the next intake.
The deadline to sign up as a mentor is Friday 10 July 2026.
To register your interest, visit the BNU Mentor Application Portal or email the team directly at mentoring@bnu.ac.uk.
Notes to editors
- The mentoring scheme supports students across multiple colleges at Buckinghamshire New University.
- Mentors are matched with students based on career interests and experience.
- The programme focuses on employability skills, confidence-building and career insight.
