Mentoring

Mentoring is a vital part of staff development in schools, providing guidance, support, and professional growth for colleagues or pupils. Unlike formal training, mentoring focuses on building relationships, fostering confidence, and helping mentees achieve their goals over time.

This practical, interactive course equips staff with the knowledge and skills to mentor effectively, supporting development while maintaining clear boundaries and structured sessions. Participants learn how to set goals, provide constructive feedback, and guide mentees through their professional journey.

The course includes video presentations, downloadable notes, exercises, and a completion assignment, allowing participants to apply their mentoring skills immediately.

• The difference between training and mentoring – understanding distinct roles and purposes

• Mentoring types and styles – formal, informal, peer, and group mentoring

• Skills and attributes required of effective mentors – listening, empathy, communication

• Structuring mentoring sessions – planning, objectives, and session flow

• Conducting the first mentoring session – setting expectations and building rapport

• The ongoing role of the mentor – maintaining support, monitoring progress, and adapting approach

• Giving and receiving feedback – promoting growth while remaining constructive

• Developing an action plan for/with your mentee – setting goals, measuring progress, and next steps

Outcomes - By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the key differences between training and mentoring roles.

• Recognise different mentoring types and identify the most appropriate style.

• Apply effective mentoring skills to support colleagues’ professional development.

• Structure and conduct productive mentoring sessions, including the first session.

• Give and receive feedback constructively to foster growth and improvement.

• Collaboratively develop actionable plans to help mentees achieve their goals.