Meet the Founder: Mark Gilbert
Mark is the founder of Quest Mentoring, an organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of young people through innovative game-based mentoring. With a passion for teaching and a background in youth development, Mark has spent over 25 years working with children and teens, including those with special educational needs.
Professional Background
Mark holds a Degree in Psychology and Biology from Liverpool University and has extensive experience in special needs support, youth mentoring, employment facilitation, Job Coaching, game design and game-based learning. This unique combination of skills and experience has enabled him to create and lead a mentoring programme that helps to address the emotional, social, and practical needs of young people.
Vision and Mission
Inspired by the potential of games to engage and educate, Mark founded Quest Mentoring with the mission to harness this power to foster human connection, personal growth, emotional resilience, and essential life skills. Under Mark's leadership, the programme continues to help young people build confidence, improve communication, and develop work readiness.
Personal Approach
Mark believes in the importance of personalised mentoring and takes a hands-on approach to ensure each child's unique needs and goals can be accommodated. By building strong relationships with both the mentees and their families, Mark aims to support each individual's journey toward success.
Commitment to Safety and Quality
Dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment, Mark has implemented a range of safety protocols, including Enhanced DBS checks and comprehensive safeguarding training for all mentors. This commitment to quality and safety is a cornerstone of Quest Mentoring's success.
Outside of Work
Mark enjoys playing video games and board games, sword fighting, and going to Live Action Roleplay events. This personal passion for gaming continually fuels Mark's drive to innovate and improve the mentoring programme.
Core Values
Trust: We prioritize transparent and reliable communication, fostering a safe and trustworthy environment for young people and their families.
Inclusivity: We welcome and support diverse backgrounds and needs, ensuring our programmes are accessible to as many people as possible.
Empowerment: We aim to enable young people to move toward their potential through inspiring and motivating mentorship.
Creativity: Our innovative approach is reflected in our engaging and imaginative mentoring methods.
Growth: We emphasise continuous development and progression, using dynamic and encouraging language.