Homework Zone
Founded in 2011, Homework Zone (HZ) is an after-school mentoring program connecting McGill University student volunteers with elementary and secondary school students in and around Montreal. Celebrating its own 10 year anniversary in 2021, HZ has connected over 1200 McGill student volunteers with over 1500 youth in elementary and high schools, promoting equitable pathways to higher education through academic support, mentorship, and activities for educational enrichment. The program works to enable both McGill and young students from the communities to develop leadership skills and build a support network before they embark on their career path.
HZ in action!
Hear it from our student mentors, coordinators, mentees and partners as they present the highlights of their experiences with the Homework Zone program.
How it works
At HZ, we create an oasis for students to challenge themselves within their school environment, and nurture encouraging relationships through mentorship activities and interpersonal support. Each 90-minute HZ session is split into two equal parts:
- Academic support (ie., homework completion, problem solving, reading) facilitated by McGill volunteers to build confidence in the classroom.
- Imagination-based enrichment activities offered by McGill students or community groups that focus on academic creativity, self-expression, and building relationships.
Students come first
Fostering connections and insight through the learning experience is at the core of the Homework Zone program. Our team is committed to cultivating academic skills and meaningful support networks that young participants can carry with them throughout their lives.
What volunteers say
Every semester, amazing students from across McGill volunteer as mentors for Homework Zone. They come with their own stories and leave the program having gained new insights and experiences. Here's what they say about volunteering for HZ.
HZ news & updates
Find out more about past HZ cohorts from Montreal Families, the McGill Reporter, Education Canada Magazine and other sources, including some of our own.
How to get involved
Facilitate a workshop
Are you part of a McGill student club or external community organization that has an idea for a workshop or activity that would engage with elementary and secondary school students? We want to hear from you!
Become a student mentor
Make valuable contributions to the enrichment of children who benefit from your support. What’s more, McGill students who volunteer for HZ gain communication and leadership skills that can enrich their own personal and professional paths. Don’t miss out on a rewarding experience with us!
Here's why you should apply to become a HZ mentor
- For general inquiries or to learn more about the program, e-mail veronica.amberg [at] mcgill.ca (Veronica Amberg), Associate Director, Partnerships and Access
Thank you to our valued partners!
T.R. Meighen Family Foundation
Tionhnhí:io
Lester B. Pearson School Board
McGill Student Housing and Hospitality Services
Many thanks to the schools, teachers, principals, families, students and McGill volunteers we get to work with every year!
