Every mentoring relationship reaches an end.

Sometimes this conclusion is planned, marking the successful completion of a placement. On other occasions, the relationship may end unexpectedly because of a change in circumstances or a terminated placement. Whatever the context, the way a mentoring relationship concludes can have a lasting influence on how trainees view themselves as professionals and how they approach future learning.

Whilst much of the literature surrounding mentoring focuses on establishing relationships, building trust and supporting professional development, comparatively little attention is given to ending those relationships well. Yet educational research suggests that conclusions are not simply administrative milestones; they are an important part of the learning process itself.

The purpose of ending mentoring is not to withdraw support abruptly. Rather, it is to help trainees recognise how far they have progressed, consolidate what they have learned and prepare them to become increasingly independent professionals.

In other words, a good ending is part of effective mentoring, not something that happens after it.