A paid mentoring programme for teachers who are “passionate about education” has been introduced.

The Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning is accepting applications for its Teacher Mentorship programme for the 2024-25 school year.

The “innovative” two-year programme is open to Bermudians, spouses of Bermudians and Permanent Resident Certificate holders with a desire for professional growth and development.

A spokeswoman for the BCCL said: “BCCL's Teacher Mentorship programme is designed to educate teachers on how to address the needs of students with language-based learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

“The programme is central to BCCL's broader mission to provide individualised support for students who may struggle in traditional school settings and to build professional capacity on island so all of Bermuda’s children who learn differently have the opportunity to succeed.

“Upon successful completion of the programme, mentees may receive employment offers at BCCL but can also leverage the invaluable skills and experience gained in any teaching capacity.”

Cindy Corday, cofounder and head of school, added: “At BCCL we are committed to making an impact beyond our school. With programmes like this, we can support educators, helping them develop strong classroom management skills that work with students with different learning styles.”

The mentorship programme is open to candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree in education, including a completion of 12 weeks of student teaching, and either possess a Bermuda Educators Teacher Licence or are eligible to receive one.

The spokeswoman added: “This paid mentorship includes health insurance and allows participants to work alongside master-level teachers. They will learn and apply evidence-based, best teaching practices in a personalised and flexible learning environment.”

According to the National Centre for Learning Disabilities, one in five children has learning and attention issues. The BCCL said that in 2022, 8,470 students were enrolled in preschool through secondary in Bermuda.

The spokeswoman said: “If 20 per cent of that number had learning disabilities, there could be 1,694 children with learning and attention issues island-wide.

“BCCL is committed to fostering a learning environment that supports diverse teaching methods and recognises the unique style of every student. Through the Teacher Mentorship programme, BCCL aims to nurture the next generation of Bermuda educators to be equipped to make a significant difference in the lives of students with varied learning styles.”

Sabriyya Harvey, this year’s intern, has a bachelor of fine arts from Mount Allison University, New Brunswick, and a bachelor of education from Brock University, Ontario.

During her time at the BCCL, Ms Harvey has gained experience working with children aged 3 to 15 both in the classroom and outside through community organisations and galleries.

She said: “This programme didn’t just equip me with best teaching practices; it fundamentally changed how I view education.

“I've learnt to create a learning environment that is as nurturing as it is educational, helping students realise their full potential, regardless of their learning styles. I am excited to apply these skills in my future teaching, knowing I can make a real difference in the lives of my students.”

The spokeswoman added: “Sabriyya is passionate about teaching to the specific needs of each child and respecting students for their individuality, strengths and unique views that they bring to the classroom. She also enthusiastically encourages differentiation through arts integration to create equitable access to learning for all students.”

• Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV, cover letter, two professional references, course transcripts and diplomas to info@bccl.bm by February 29. For more information about the BCCL Teacher Mentorship programme, visit www.bccl.bm