Meet the Team Bringing MCR Pathways to the Scottish Borders | Amy Hamilton
21 September 2026
As MCR Pathways prepares to bring its award-winning mentoring model to the Scottish Borders, we’re continuing our series introducing the local team helping to make the programme a reality.
Delivered in partnership with Scottish Borders Council, Developing the Young Workforce Borders and Skills Development Scotland, the programme will span secondary schools and further education campuses across the region. By matching young people with dedicated trusted adult volunteer mentors, MCR Pathways aims to build confidence, unlock potential and create lasting support networks.
In this second instalment, we catch up with Amy Hamilton, Scottish Borders Programme Manager, to hear about her local roots, her experience supporting the development of young people and the workforce across the Borders, and what she’s most excited to deliver through the power of mentoring.
Let’s Get to Know Amy
Q: If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be—and why? A: Approachable—I’ve always been someone who is happy to have a chat with anyone. Everyone wants to feel seen, listened to, and comfortable being themselves. Kind—I try to put myself in other people’s shoes, as even the smallest act of kindness can turn someone’s whole day around. Sociable—I love spending time with friends and family, going to events, and I’m definitely a foodie who loves good food and good company!
Q: What does the word ‘mentoring’ mean to you? A: For me, mentoring is about being a consistent, positive person in someone’s life, while giving them the confidence and direction to see a positive future.
Q: Have you ever had someone in your life who really stood in your corner—someone who believed in you, encouraged you, or helped you see what you were capable of? What difference did that make to you? A: My dance teacher of 12 years. Spending my childhood in a studio with her had a huge influence on my confidence, resilience, and taught me the true value of commitment.
Q: What inspired you to apply for the role with MCR Pathways? A: I was super excited to hear that a new programme was being launched within the Scottish Borders to support young people, and I wanted to be part of this.
Q: Tell us about the knowledge, skills, and experiences you’re bringing to the role—and how you think they’ll help you make a difference in the Scottish Borders. A: Growing up in the Borders gives me a strong connection to our community and a real drive to make a difference here. Having spent several years with DYW partnering with schools and local employers, I know just how important strong support networks and meaningful experiences are for shaping a young person’s future.
Settling In
Q: You’re only two weeks into the role, but how are you finding things so far? What’s stood out to you about MCR Pathways and the people you’ve met? A: What an awesome team! Everyone has been so welcoming, supportive, and kind. The introductions have been so positive, and I can really feel the energy and passion that colleagues have for the programme.
Bringing MCR Pathways to the Scottish Borders
Q: MCR Pathways is preparing to launch its award-winning mentoring programme in the Scottish Borders for the first time. Where do things stand at the moment when it comes to getting the programme up and running? A: Scottish Borders Council & Borders College have been very receptive, which is a great start. We have 10 settings including 9 secondary schools and 1 college across a very large geographical area. Mentor recruitment has begun, and the formal launch is going to be in January.
Q: What are some of the things you’re particularly looking forward to as the programme begins to take shape across the Scottish Borders? A: I am looking forward to meeting mentors, young people, and hopefully hearing some positive relationship stories as the programme starts to develop.
Q: What would you say to adults across the Scottish Borders who might be considering becoming a volunteer mentor with MCR Pathways? Why should they get involved? A: I’d say go for it! People often feel like they need all the answers, but really, it’s about giving someone your time, listening, and being that person they know is there for them. You get so much out of it yourself—seeing someone grow in confidence and knowing you played a small part in that journey is deeply fulfilling. It’s a chance to make a genuine difference.
Q: What would success look like for you, and for the Scottish Borders, 12 months from now? A: Success would be having a strong foundation across the Scottish Borders—good relationships with schools and partners, a growing network of mentors, and young people actively benefiting from the programme. Most of all, I’d hope to look back and know we’d made a genuine start in creating more opportunities and support for young people across the Borders.
MCR Pathways mentoring programme will operate in the following secondary schools from January 2027:
- Berwickshire High School
- Selkirk High School
- Galashiels Academy
- Earlston High School
- Eyemouth High School
- Hawick High School
- Jedburgh Grammar Campus,
- Kelso High School
- Peebles High School.
The programme will also run at Scottish Borders College Tweedbank, Galashiels, and Newton St Boswells campuses, to support young people make the transition from the classroom to campus, and progress confidently to achieving qualifications.
Here’s how you can support MCR Pathways as it expands into the Scottish Borders.
- Become a volunteer mentor: https://mcrpathways.org/become-a-mentor/
- Become a partner: https://mcrpathways.org/support-us/
- Support our influencing and policy work: https://mcrpathways.org/policy-and-influencing/
Alternatively contact Amy direct: amy.hamilton@mcrpathways.org
