This programme involves recruiting individuals from the local community, who are willing and able to spend time to encourage and support children at all ages voluntarily.

The voluntary mentors are from all walks of life, having many different experiences and differing backgrounds. They range from parents, local residents, and students to individuals in full time employment.

The mentors that are selected need to exhibit a keen interest in working with people and they generally want to "give something back to the community". The Pioneers Voluntary Mentors are usually matched based on similar ethnicity and gender. They are given the challenge of working with children and committing a minimum of two hours a week, for approximately 1 academic year or any predefined period.