Support our work with Young People
One Degree is 100% funded by donations and run by volunteer mentors. These donations provide us with the resources to raise achievement in young people. If you would like to a donation to us right away then use the button below.
One Degree Mentor Case Studies
At One Degree, our mentors, ambassadors, and teachers are more than just volunteers—they’re lifelines for students often overlooked in their schools and communities. By offering direction, encouragement, and a sense of possibility, our volunteers transform lives while experiencing the profound reward of making a real, tangible impact.
Most of our mentors are young professionals, bringing passion, patience, and empathy to help GCSE/Year 11 students (ages 15–16) navigate their challenges. These volunteers serve as role models, guiding students who might otherwise feel left behind toward brighter futures.
To foster meaningful connections and provide continuity, we ask volunteers to commit to at least three in-person or online sessions per year. This ensures students build trust and form bonds with the people dedicated to helping them succeed.
Craig (Lead Mentor)
"The one to one support that One Degree provides these students in particular is invaluable in delivering the support they need to reach their potential and achieve the best GCSE grades to set them up for the next stage of their learning and development."
Craig (Lead Mentor)
“I have worked with the One Degree programme since 2017, and continued investment in the programme is vital to ensure we can continue to deliver the significant student progress outcomes that One Degree delivers. Since the pandemic students have become used to interacting virtually and with online systems to push their learning forward. This is particularly true for both low attaining students, such as those with learning needs, and those at the higher end of attainment who need stretch and extension to reach their full potential. The one to one support that One Degree provides these students in particular is invaluable in delivering the support they need to reach their potential and achieve the best GCSE grades to set them up for the next stage of their learning and development.”
Toby (Lead Mentor)
"Of all the charities I have worked with, One Degree makes the most direct and measurable impact."
Toby (Lead Mentor)
“Of all the charities I have worked with, One Degree makes the most direct and measurable impact.”
Madhu (Lead Mentor)
"Having mentored with One Degree since 2015 I have seen first-hand the value of the programme to young people and the direct impact it has on their attainment and confidence."
Madhu (Lead Mentor)
“Having mentored with One Degree since 2015 I have seen first-hand the value of the programme to young people and the direct impact it has on their attainment and confidence. In the most recent programme, it was clear to see the progress that was possible in a short space of time and this is very rewarding as a mentor.”
Aleksander (Lead Alumni)
"The experience meant so much to me as a student, that I am now a volunteer mentor for new students coming through the programme."
Aleksander (Lead Alumni)
“The experience meant so much to me as a student, that I am now a volunteer mentor for new students coming through the programme.”
Christophe (Mentor)
"I have been a One Degree mentor since 2020 and have experienced the evolution of the One Degree platform from a mix of online and in person to a full online 1-on-1 flexible and personalised platform."
Christophe (Mentor)
“I have been a One Degree mentor since 2020 and have experienced the evolution of the One Degree platform from a mix of online and in person to a full online 1-on-1 flexible and personalised platform. The online platform is very easy to navigate and accessible, for both mentees and mentors and allow to book slots when convenient. It can be accessed by computer and phone. It is more than just a way to interact with students as it includes a library of recorded lessons as well as mock exams and it also includes speakers and workshop videos.”
George (Mentor)
"When the students are engaged the online platform allows them to progress quickly with their revision and learning."
George (Mentor)
“I can confirm that the online platform works well in mentoring the students. It provides access for the students to receive more regular mentoring / tutoring. When the students are engaged the online platform allows them to progress quickly with their revision and learning.”
Magda (Mentor)
"It is very rewarding, as a mentor, to see the results of their efforts and ours, as they achieve higher grades than anticipated and in such a short period of time."
Magda (Mentor)
“It has been a pleasure and privilege to be a part of this charity. I have observed how the teenagers thrive in this environment – with this dedicated attention and tutoring in GCSE related topics. It is very rewarding, as a mentor, to see the results of their efforts and ours, as they achieve higher grades than anticipated and in such a short period of time. They make the effort, as do we, and together achieve great results. This one-to-one tutoring is a great way to help them build their knowledge and confidence ready for their imminent GCSEs. Mentoring that under normal circumstances they would not be able to afford, so I am grateful to One Degree for giving them this opportunity.
Clovis (Mentor)
"What sets One Degree apart is its thoughtful approach to matching students and mentors based on learning and teaching preferences, ensuring a more tailored and effective experience."
Clovis (Mentor)
“I have had the privilege of being a One Degree mentor since 2020, experiencing first-hand the evolution from in-person to hybrid and now fully online mentoring. The recent innovations and growth in One Degree’s online mentoring platform have been remarkable. The introduction of 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, which students can book at their convenience, has truly transformed the mentoring experience – offering personalised, impactful guidance that’s deeply rewarding for both students and mentors. What sets One Degree apart is its thoughtful approach to matching students and mentors based on learning and teaching preferences, ensuring a more tailored and effective experience. I for one am a proof of that experience and impact on the lives of the student I have had the privilege to meet. While I believe in-person, hybrid, and online mentoring each have unique benefits, One Degree’s online model is perfectly positioned to reach more students in a highly accessible and cost-effective way.”
Heena (Former Teacher)
"Having worked in a variety of schools, with over 10 years teaching experience, I don’t think I have ever felt as fulfilled."
Heena (Former Teacher)
“Shaping and influencing the lives of young people to be the best that they can be is rewarding in itself, hence why I became a teacher. However, through teaching on the One Degree programme, I feel that I am making a real difference. The fact that the students, who come from disadvantaged backgrounds, make a commitment to the programme and are motivated to succeed is empowering. Many simply need a boost of confidence and self-belief and the fact that the team of mentors and I are able to provide that reassurance and support is fantastic. Having worked in a variety of schools, with over 10 years teaching experience, I don’t think I have ever felt as fulfilled. It is only through working with the One Degree family that I know that I have truly made a difference.”
Rogier (Former Mentor)
"One Degree is a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the development of academic skills and self-esteem of students from disadvantaged backgrounds in a unique way."
Rogier (Former Mentor)
“One Degree is a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the development of academic skills and self-esteem of students from disadvantaged backgrounds in a unique way. I am glad that I can make a positive impact in their lives. The motivation of the One Degree students is inspiring. By giving most students a little help, they get more confident about their academic performance and achieving their goals. Throughout the months you see them progress, which is very rewarding. I am very happy that I have taken the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the next generation as a Masters student in London.”
Misa (Former Mentor)
"Mentoring for One Degree is fun and rewarding. An emotional journey seeing what the students go through."
Misa (Former Mentor)
“Mentoring for One Degree is fun and rewarding. An emotional journey seeing what the students go through.”
Nadeem (Former Teacher)
"Students who had never before considered themselves as likely candidates for GCSE success now realised that it was within reach."
Nadeem (Former Teacher)
“As Maths teachers, we noted an increased engagement from the students involved in One Degree. Students who had never before considered themselves as likely candidates for GCSE success now realised that it was within reach.”