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IgnitED Engineering Summer Programme Mentor – Contractor Role
£1,000 fixed fee for one week Independent Contractor Role
In-Person, Guildford, 3-7 August 2026. As the IgnitED programme is non‑residential, Mentors must be able to commute to the University of Surrey each day.
Inspire the next generation. Share your expertise. Lead a transformative week on a UK university campus.
About the Role
IgnitED is seeking an Engineering Programme Mentor to lead a five‑day, summer careers experience for motivated students aged 14–17 who are considering engineering pathways. The IgnitED programme will be delivered at the University of Surrey.
This is a hands‑on, immersive programme combining practical workshops, team challenges, industry‑inspired activities and mentoring, delivered on a UK university campus.
You will lead delivery on site at the campus, guiding students through structured sessions while acting as a positive professional role model.
This role requires daily in‑person attendance at the University of Surrey campus, so applicants should either live within a reasonable commuting distance or be able to arrange their own accommodation locally.
About IgnitED
IgnitED delivers our endorsed career experience programmes at university venues, to help young people gain clarity on future pathways, build confidence, and connect with like‑minded peers. Programmes are delivered across multiple UK universities with strong industry alignment.
Who We’re Looking For
Applications are welcome from:
- Professional engineers (any discipline)
- Graduate or postgraduate engineering students
- University academics or STEM teachers
- Exceptional undergraduates with relevant mentoring or tutoring experience
You will have practical knowledge of engineering pathways (e.g. Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace, Electrical, Software, Chemical or related fields) and experience working with young people.
The programme is delivered on a non‑residential basis, so Mentors will need to commute to the University of Surrey each day.
The Role
Applicants must be able to travel to the University of Surrey daily to mentor in person and should either live within a commutable distance or arrange their own accommodation nearby.
This contract has two components, both required:
1. Programme Familiarisation (Pre‑August)
- Review and learn the core IgnitED Engineering curriculum
- Tailor examples and case studies to reflect real regional engineering organisations and roles
- Contribute your own expertise to enrich activities and discussions
- Coordinate with the Programme Director to ensure a high‑quality final programme
2. Programme Delivery (In Person)
You will lead the full delivery of your programme in person at the assigned university campus over five consecutive weekdays. This includes:
- Lead all Engineering workshops and structured sessions
- Facilitate team challenges and design‑build activities
- Support individual pupils through informal mentoring
- Foster an inclusive, safe, engaging learning environment
- Represent IgnitED with professionalism and enthusiasm throughout the week
Delivery runs Monday–Friday, approximately 08:30–17:30 on campus, with flexibility depending on programme activity
Support
- Programme structure and materials provided
- Ongoing support from the Programme Director
- Access to IgnitED’s professional network
Safeguarding & Compliance
Due to work with under‑18s, the successful applicant will be required to:
- Hold or obtain an enhanced DBS check
- Provide proof of Right to Work in the UK
- Supply two suitable referees
- Complete safeguarding induction and declarations
Remuneration
- £1,000 fixed fee for full programme delivery
- This role is offered on a self‑employed, independent contractor basis and does not constitute employment. Contractors are responsible for their own tax arrangements.
How to Apply
Please email [email protected] with:
- CV
- Covering letter outlining:
- Your engineering background and suitability
- Why you are interested in the role
- Confirmation of availability for 3–7 August 2026
- Please clearly explain any gaps in employment.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and may close early. Applications without a covering letter cannot be considered. If you have any questions at any stage, please contact us at the same email address.
Additional Safeguarding Information
As this post involves direct contact with children, it is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected’ under the Exceptions Order 1975 (2013 and 2020) and are not subject to disclosure.
If You Are Successful
You will be required to:
- Undergo a DBS check (and international equivalent if applicable)
- Explain any gaps in your CV
- Provide proof of Right to Work in the UK
- Provide two recent and relevant referees, who will be asked specifically about your suitability to work with children
- Confirm you have no known reason preventing you from working with children
- Provide official identification and certificates for our records
IgnitED Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff, consultants, and volunteers to share this commitment. All contractors must adhere to our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity Statement
We operate a policy of equal opportunities and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of sex, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, or disability.
Job Types: Fixed term contract, Freelance
Contract length: 1 week
Pay: £1,000.00 per week
Benefits:
- Canteen
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Please submit a CV and Covering Letter outlining your suitability to [email protected]
Work Location: In person