Activity objectives

At the end of the training course, participants will be able to: 

1. Identify the key roles and responsibilities of mentors within the European Solidarity Corps programme 
2. Promote the local and cultural integration of volunteers (support in daily life, building social connections, etc.) 
3. Promote and safeguard the well-being of volunteers before, during, and after each volunteering project 
4. Contribute constructively to the management of crises and conflicts involving volunteers (e.g., misunderstandings with host organizations, problems with housemates, etc.) 
5. Implement inclusive methods in their mentoring practices (e.g., adapting to different learning styles, cultural contexts, or the specific needs of volunteers) 
6. Understand their role in valuing and recognizing volunteers' learning (e.g., encouraging reflection, providing feedback, using the Youthpass) 
7. Provide concrete support to volunteers in recognizing and evaluating their learning (e.g., identifying the development of their skills, encouraging reflection...) 
8. Use the mentoring approaches and tools presented during the event (e.g., mentoring methods, communication techniques, reflection activities). 

Description

The Training Course ‘Supporting ESC Volunteers through Mentoring’ is designed for individuals active in an organisation holding a Quality Label in the framework of the European Solidarity Corps, and primarily for: 

• mentors with limited experience; 
• future mentors with no prior experience in mentoring ESC volunteers; 
• experienced mentors wishing to re-evaluate their approach and share best practices. 

This training is based on the Mentoring Competence Framework developed by the SALTO European Solidarity Corps Resource Centre and several National Agencies as part of the "Mentoring under Construction" project. This project aims to create a community of mentors and share tools and best practices. 

The training course will take place over four full days in person: 

• Arrival day: Monday 16th of November for diner 
• Working days: from Tuesday 17th of November 2026 to Friday 20th of  November 2026 
• Departure day: Saturday 21st of November after breakfast 

An online on-boarding session will allow you to learn more about the training and the other participants. It will be held on the Wednesday 14th of October between 2 PM CEST and 3:30 PM CEST. 

Your attendance at the online on-boarding session and the entire residential training course is expected. 

This training focuses on the pedagogical aspects of supporting European Solidarity Corps volunteers. The operational aspects of the programme and management tools will not be covered. 

To maximize the benefits of this training course, do not plan meetings or other work time during the week. The program and schedule will be sent to you after participants selection, allowing you to best organize your time. 

You are a mentor if you work in an organisation already holding a Quality Label in the framework of the European Solidarity Corps and if: 

• You are the primary contact for the volunteers hosted by your organisation; 
• You are involved in monitoring and supporting volunteers at various levels (intercultural preparation, daily life, administrative support, (re)integration, personal projects, etc.); 
• You are in charge of the valorisation & evaluation of the volunteers' learning outcomes. 

If you fit this profile and have little or no experience as an ESC Mentor, or if you are an experienced mentor wishing to share your practices, this training is for you!