Being a Join the Dots Coach gives PhD researchers a meaningful, paid opportunity to support first‑year students as they transition into university life.
As a Coach you will:
Applicants must be studying for a PhD or working in an academic capacity post-PhD at one of our Join the Dots partner universities.
Check the application form linked above to see if your university is eligible.
For answers to commonly asked questions about becoming a Coach with us, see our FAQs page.
You will be assigned one placement, which comprises of a maximum of 8 students. The total number of hours you work on each placement may vary, and it is up to you to manage your time.
The weekly hours will vary, and your time will be split between undertaking training, scheduling and preparing for sessions, delivering sessions, or providing feedback on coursework for your students. Most sessions will take place online, with a few in person sessions. You are encouraged to be flexible to best fit the needs of your students.
Depending on your availability, you could commit to more placements or work with more than 8 students. You will be financially compensated for any work.
You can watch an information session on becoming a Join the Dots Coach on our YouTube channel.
You will receive both live and pre‑recorded training covering coaching methods, adult safeguarding, and other key areas to support your development, including how to support students with individual needs.
I feel honoured to have taken part in Join the Dots, and am certain that the programme will go on to make a massive difference to disadvantaged undergraduate students. Regarding my experience as a programme tutor, I feel that the programme has improved both my teaching and presentation skills, enhances how I communicate, and made me more aware than ever of the issues facing young people in education today.