1.1 Mentoring at differing stages

Mentoring strategically means providing the mentoring or coaching that the particular beginner teacher needs at the particular point they have reached in their career. Consider the scenario where two beginner teachers who are at different points in their studies are placed in your school, and you are mentoring both. One student is exceeding expectations (first school placement on a part-time programme) while the other is only doing enough to reach the desired requirements (second school placement at the latter stage of their course). How do you ensure both continue to make progress?

Ensuring both students are treated as individuals is vital, and this means avoiding comparisons and group discussions when giving feedback, as this would be unethical. You will also need to build a clear understanding of the expectations at each level of study, as this will be imperative in order to advise and set appropriate and achievable targets. Making sure each student is given appropriate observation opportunities is important, so that both students are able to benefit from seeing and learning from experienced staff at work. You will also need to engage in discussions with the school co-ordinator / practice tutor during visits to gain some personal coaching on dealing with the challenging circumstances involved.

Considering the values that you hold as a mentor and the principles within which you wish to act will be important as you deal with difficult situations and support beginner teachers. The next section will help you to determine your principles.