Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions — but it can also be an isolating one, particularly for male teachers who are often in the minority within our academies. Recognising the unique challenges they may face, we are launching a Peer Mentoring Programme for Male Teachers, designed to create a supportive network where educators can connect, share experiences, and grow together, demonstrating our unwavering Passion to Include.

While teaching is a profession built on relationships, male teachers can sometimes find themselves without peers who truly understand their professional and personal experiences. Whether it’s navigating work-life balance, managing expectations, or developing leadership skills, having a trusted colleague to talk to can make a real difference. Oasis’ innovative peer mentoring initiative aims to bridge that gap — offering a space for open discussion, encouragement, and shared learning.

The programme will pair participants with fellow educators who can offer advice, guidance, and empathy drawn from their own classroom and career experiences, all underpinned by our Nine Habits. Through regular conversations and time to reflect together, mentors and mentees will have the chance to stop, sit, and talk. They may choose to reflect on their practice, develop new perspectives, build lasting professional relationships. Or just simply offload after a tough day.

The mentoring is being piloted in Oasis Academy Shirley Park, led by Deputy Principal Nicola Robertson, and in Oasis Academy Foundry, led by Deputy Principal Victoria Starr. The vision going forward is to evaluate the pilot project, roll out across all Oasis Primaries, and then gauge need for potential roll out in our secondary academies too.

Beyond personal development, we believe this initiative will strengthen the broader Oasis community and invest in our remarkable people. When teachers feel supported and confident, that sense of wellbeing ripples outward — improving staff morale, collaboration, and ultimately, student outcomes.

By launching our peer mentoring for male teachers, Oasis aims to promote a culture of connection, resilience, and shared growth. Together, we can empower our men to thrive, ensuring that they feel valued, supported, and inspired in their role.

Please email Gemma.bolton-hale@oasisoldham.org or Abbe.Barneby@oasisuk.org for more info, or talk to your principal.