Peer Active Learning Scheme: PALS Mentor 2025 / 2026

Badge awarded to

Freya Vamos

Issued on 09 Jun 2026 by

University of Surrey

The Peer Active Learning Scheme (PALS) is a learning development programme designed for final year undergraduate and postgraduate students. It provides these students with the opportunity to develop their academic, professional, and personal skills by acting as a learning mentor to foundation, first- and second-year undergraduate mentees. To become a PALS mentor, individuals must demonstrate their academic capabilities by completing the application process, which includes providing evidence that they meet the eligibility criteria and completing a competency-based interview. Following a successful application, the PALS mentors attended a training session to develop their mentoring skills and enhance their learning capabilities before meeting their mentees.

Issuer

University of Surrey

tel@surrey.ac.uk

Criteria

Criteria:

PALS mentors were assigned at least one mentee. Mentors were responsible for organising up to four sessions with their mentees and provided reflective feedback after each session. At the end of the scheme, mentors were asked to complete an online survey to provide constructive feedback on their experience of the scheme.

The PALS mentor badge is awarded upon recognition that the individual has successfully applied for the role of PALS mentor and has attended the training session. Mentors have then been allowed to engage with at least one mentee and have actively engaged with the scheme. By participating in PALS, the individual has successfully reflected upon their learning abilities and progress and begun to develop their academic, professional, and personal skills.

With respect to learning skills, this may include:

Time management for a healthy study/work/life balance Enhanced academic writing skills Critical thinking and analysis Self-reflection Regarding professional development, this may include:

Working autonomously Problem solving Record keeping Time management Effective communication and listening skills Adaptability and flexibility Managing pressure effectively Maintaining confidentiality Peer support Concerning personal development, this may include:

Self-awareness Inclusivity and diversity Self-confidence and self-esteem Awareness of self-development Empowerment and development of others