The Nightingale Mentoring Programme – Mentoring That Makes a Difference
At Novia University of Applied Sciences in Vaasa, students and children participate in the Nightingale Mentoring Programme, where students are trained to become mentors for children aged 8–13. The programme is a low-threshold initiative that can be introduced through schools and is designed to create mutual benefits for both children and mentors. Implemented in collaboration with primary schools, the programme aims to provide children with support, inspiration and new experiences, while mentors develop valuable skills such as communication, empathy and relationship-building.
Nightingale was first launched in Malmö, Sweden, in 1997 and is now implemented at several universities in Sweden and internationally, particularly within social science. In Finland, the programme is also offered at the University of Helsinki. Nightingale is part of the international Nightingale Mentoring Network, enabling the exchange of knowledge, experience and best practices in mentoring across Europe.
The programme supports children’s self-esteem and motivation for further education through regular engagement with mentors, who plan activities based on the child’s interests. Mentors receive training, supervision and complete reflective assignments to support them in their role. The aim is to provide children with meaningful leisure-time experiences, strengthen their well-being and expand their social networks. At the same time, mentors gain a deeper understanding of children’s living conditions and everyday realities, complementing their academic studies and future professional practice.
The mentoring programme is delivered within the framework of the Nightingale Project, which runs from 1 March 2025 to 30 June 2027 and is funded by Stiftelsen Brita Maria Renlunds minne, Svenska kulturfonden och Aktiastiftelsen i Vasa.
“The programme offers a platform where children can receive support and inspiration from their mentors.”
– Project Researcher Ann Backman
“The basic idea is a mutual exchange of experiences, joy, and learning. Children are given a unique opportunity to get to know another adult with whom they can spend time and build a friendship.”
– Project Researcher Nanette Westergård
“Nightingale is an excellent complement to the other studies because the course is highly practice-oriented. As a student, you have a unique opportunity to meet a child regularly and build a mentoring relationship. Learning takes place outside the university environment in a completely different way than in many other courses.”
– Lecturer Lina Nybjörk
Evaluation 2025–2026
The evaluation of the Nightingale programme shows that the mentoring relationship was perceived as highly valuable by mentors, children and parents alike. Mentors particularly highlighted their personal growth, strengthened relational skills and the meaningfulness of contributing to a child’s life. Parents reported that their children gained new experiences, increased self-confidence and became more willing to try new activities. The children themselves appreciated their relationship with their mentor and the opportunity to participate in enjoyable activities together.
Overall, the findings indicate that the Nightingale Mentoring Programme contributes to safe and supportive relationships, new perspectives and positive experiences for everyone involved.
“Definitely new experiences, and stronger self-confidence. My child now dares to try new things.”
– Parent
“I have noticed that after our meetings, the child has developed as a person. The child’s mother has also seen that the child has become happier and more talkative. It is wonderful that this project can help children grow and become stronger!”
– Nightingale Mentor
Link to the Nightingale Network website: http://nightingalementoring.projecterossinyol.com/welcome/
Contact
Nanette Westergård, nanette.westergard@novia.fi
Ann Backmn, ann.backman2@novia.fi
Lina Nybjörk, lina.nybjork@novia.fi
Pictures by Emmy A and staff at Novia University of Applied Sciences
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