LDAT Program Modules

The screening process establishes whether the applicant meets basic program standards.

Screening criteria

To be accepted for a mentorship, the applicant must satisfy the following screening criteria:

be aged 18 years or younger
complete a written application, or apply using another format (e.g. phone call, video clip) as determined by the LDAT
provide proof of identity
provide proof of residence
provide parental/guardian written consent
potentially nominate up to three referees who have known the applicant for at least one year, e.g. a family friend, teacher, employer, sports coach or community leader
have a viable means of transport—access to public transport or a licenced adult who can transport them to mentoring sessions, unless involved in e-mentoring
in the case of e-mentoring, applicants require a reliable electronic communication method (eg. laptop, smartphone)
commit to full participation in the Mentoring Program, including regular meetings with a mentor (weekly/fortnightly) for the duration of the program
have a commitment to the Mentoring Program and the Vision, Mission and Values Statement.

Inability to meet any of the screening criteria will void an individual’s application.

Selection process

A personal interview may help to gauge a young person’s suitability for the program, in addition to their application.

The interview could focus on the young person’s:

motivation for being a mentee
perceived benefits of having a mentor
activities they hope to do with the mentor
current activities, hobbies and interests
progress at school or work
strengths and weaknesses
future hopes and plans
capacity to commit to all program requirements (e.g. meetings, training, feedback sessions).

Finalising the mentee application

When finalising the outcome of the mentee application, consider suitability criteria including some or all of the following:

character references
personality profile
motivation for participating.¹⁹

Consider criteria for screening out unsuitable mentee applicants, including:

a criminal record; however, program management may deem that a criminal record would not necessarily prevent a potential mentee from participating, depending on the nature of the offence, the number of offences, the date and the demeanour of the offender since the offence occurred
questionable motives
lack of availability.

Use the finalising the mentee application - checklist to guide the final decision and ensure all inputs from the screening and selection process have been considered. The decision, and the grounds on which it is made, should be clearly documented and communicated appropriately to all applicants. Both successful and unsuccessful applicants must be informed of the outcome of their application.