Top Tips for Developing a Mentee's Professional Approach by Mentor SHOOC

Ask the awkward questions

mentorshooc — 2017-01-30 07:32:20 UTC

I've found this particularly hard, especially when trainees should be doing things they find difficult, like subject knowledge audits. Confront them frequently so it shouldn't come as a surprise.

Tell the mentees to think before dashing off an email

mentorshooc — 2017-01-30 07:34:07 UTC

Just like students, there can be a lot of reliance from yourself for advice and far too many trainees expect instant replies which can be a real drain on your time. Get them to pause and reflect, even when they might be panicking. This also avoids a full in-box with mundane questions like “Do you think it would be OK if I wrote this on the board with a blue pen?” (Genuine email question!)

Guide the mentee

mentorshooc — 2017-01-30 07:37:23 UTC

Guide the mentee in what the role of a teacher is beyond teaching. This may not always be transparent

Find out about the skills that the mentee brings.

mentorshooc — 2017-01-30 07:37:47 UTC

Can they undertake a lunch-time or afternoon club?

Arrange opportunities

mentorshooc — 2017-01-30 07:38:49 UTC

Arrange opportunities to speak to learners - perhaps shadow one or more to see what a learner’s typical experience is - and remember that simply sharing policy documents can never replace an actual experience.

Act as broker

mentorshooc — 2017-01-30 07:39:22 UTC

Act as broker for mentees to talk to other colleagues. It's easy to forget how daunting it is to ask a very busy colleague for some specialist help.

Give guided opportunities

mentorshooc — 2017-01-30 07:39:48 UTC

Mentees will be hesitant to speak to parents, carers or other stakeholders: give them guided opportunities to do this in a 'safe space.'

Set clear expectations to start with

2017-01-30 21:22:44 UTC

Set clear expectations at the start of the placement and encourage the mentee to reflect on issues as they arise.

Reflect on the big and small

2017-01-31 13:27:10 UTC

Take time out to reflect on how things have gone both at the small scale i.e. that lesson or activity well well/was a disaster, and the bigger picture level how is life working out for them. Do they still have enthusiasm for this now that they know a bit more about it.

Don't make assumptions

2017-01-31 13:39:34 UTC

State the obvious when setting expectations and building up the mentees confidence in leading activities and lessons. It is easy to overlook what seems like common sense to an experienced practitioner only to find the mentees not realising the fundamentals of how/why we do things

Model Professional Approach

2017-01-31 19:33:48 UTC

Model professional behaviour / norms and standards but check mentees understand that this is the professional standard not just the behaviour / standard of an individual teacher. Don't let them get in to 'bad habits' early on from not understanding - set expectations clear from the start.

Provide a proper induction

2017-01-31 20:50:41 UTC

Explain explicitly what you and your school expect from the mentee, from times to be on site to professional dress. Make sure that all protocols and relevant procedures are provided to the mentee, If there are issues that appear at this early stage make sure that these are followed up straight away and not left to escalate.

Provide initial support on understanding the expectations and model these expectations throughout your own teaching. Allow space for mistakes and support the development from these in a reflective manner. Let them know that mistakes are part of life, we have all done them and the aim is to make them and move on from them.

2017-02-01 19:23:14 UTC

Reflect to progress

2017-02-01 20:21:23 UTC

Ask reflective questions, and help them to evaluate their practice. Then help with their next step to progress. Sometimes things that go wrong can be just as helpful as things that go right.

Set clear expectations and lead by example.

s_heimler — 2017-02-01 20:53:13 UTC

Find out what interests they have

2017-02-02 14:13:05 UTC

As a PE specialist, what sporting activities do they have outside school that they can bring into school and offer as an extra curricular club. They can use their experiences and specialisms to help, support and guide students and be able to offer something outside of the curriculum.

Model and set clear achievable expectations

2017-02-02 19:47:04 UTC

Lead by example, Make sure your expectations are clear and encourage regular reflection time. Help the mentee become involved outside the classroom as a tutee, in school meetings and extra curricular activities

Inclusion

2017-02-02 20:18:36 UTC

Encourage your mentee to attend as many different activities that are relevant to them and will benefit them. Meeting with learners they are working with and other agencies. Broker to other activities on a wider interest range within the organisation.

Don't just supply info; test understanding

2017-02-03 12:44:27 UTC

Understanding of professional codes of conduct etc. can be tested through for example 'what if' scenarios or reflective activities on one's own professional behaviours. As someone else has already said, sharing documents can never replace an actual experience (although the extent to which this is true will depend on the mentee's learning preferences, tee hee;-))

Listen carefully

2017-02-03 13:56:12 UTC

Pick up on things the mentee says that are useful for the learning outcomes you know they need to meet and use their words, rather than those of externally imposed learning outcomes, to formulate their learning aims with them. Most people are happier to work on what they want to achieve than what others think they should achieve.

Be clear

2017-02-03 15:05:55 UTC

I always assume that the mentee rightly or wrongly wont have the same professional expectations that I or the school have. That then means that I cover these things in a step by step way stating each element as expectations. Linking these to a positive outcome at the end of the placement as it is a very important part of their teaching practice.

Mentee skills

2017-02-04 10:59:21 UTC

Find out if the mentee has any special interests or hobbies which could be used to set up a lunchtime or after school club. The mentee would feel valued and more comfortable if they have enthusiasm for the type of club they could develop.

Role Model

2017-02-04 11:52:46 UTC

Ensure as a mentor you always act and speak in a professional manner.

Clear expectations

2017-02-04 16:32:49 UTC

Set clear expectations and model these expectations. If the mentee does not automatically get the opportunity to work with a tutor group or duties, get them to work alongside you or set up the opportunity for them to do this alongside a colleague.

Proper Induction

2017-02-04 17:21:38 UTC

As with other new staff, provide them with written guidelines to refer back to. Arrange for them to speak to other members of staff about different aspects of their role as a teacher (eg admin team re registers, IT manager re email and school IT systems, Safeguarding lead re safeguarding and behaviour etc). School induction programme then running alongside.

Pick the right team

2017-02-04 17:24:34 UTC

Place the mentee with a good team who will model a professional approach. Ensure someone in this team has the role of encouraging the mentee to join in with the life of school outside the classroom - the part that is away from students and SLT too! Someone to take them to the staffroom and ensure they know the rules of 'Cake Friday' or whatever other staff 'social' activities there are - builds relationships and therefore teamwork.

Lead by example

ibanez_rach — 2017-02-04 21:57:09 UTC

Ensure that a mentee knows what professionalism looks like, but also give examples of what would be considered unprofessional too within the context. This information must be communicated from the offset to prevent any misunderstandings.

Top Tip: As part of the induction into the school ensure the mentee has the opportunity to discuss the school, its ethos and its priorities with the headteacher and/or the deputy headteacher. Also make sure that they hear the story of the school... where were we and how have we got to where we are now?

2017-02-05 12:07:50 UTC

Make them feel part of the team

2017-02-06 10:11:23 UTC

Treat the mentee like any other member of your school/department. If they feel like they belong to that school, they are more likely to behave in a professional manner.

Start early

2017-02-08 18:35:24 UTC

In the first meeting, let them know what the school expects. Tell them what is expected and talk to them about what they expect from the school. Ensure they adopt the dress code, ensure they read policies etc. Talk to classroom teachers to find out if things are ok and that they are acting professionally and let them know how how well they are doing.

Understanding the setting and looking for opportunities.

2017-02-11 14:48:11 UTC

Ensure the mentee is fully aware of the ethos and expectations of the setting and address any misconceptions early. Also give opportunities for the mentee to develop their professionalsim through liaising with parents and outside agencies or by getting involved with extra curricular activities.

'What do you think?'

2017-02-11 15:18:15 UTC

Ask trainees for their opinions in meetings or around school like you would with another colleague. This allows them to think through issues and find a suitable solution like you have to as a teacher. Making them feel included allows them to have to develop a professional manner because their answers have some weight in decisions and also because they will have things modelled to them.

Be a role model

2017-02-12 19:15:25 UTC

The mentee will look to their mentor as a role model of how to act and behave in the school environment. It is therefore important to ensure you always exhibit the behaviours associated with professionalism.

You are the role model

2017-02-14 12:04:48 UTC

As the mentor it is your job to model professional behaviour at all times. I try to make sure that the mentee gets to know a variety of professionals in the school and that these are all positive role models.

A critical friend...

2017-02-15 09:49:07 UTC

We have all needed to be a mentee at some point; and we musn't forget this and what it is like. It is our job to make sure the mentee has all contact details of key members of staff - in information needs to be communicated. We need to explain what the school brochure contains and what is important to us as a school. In this way, clear expectations are set from the start.

Gentle reminders

2017-02-15 11:42:24 UTC

Model professional behaviour and reiterate values and also the purpose of different meetings, e.g. before going to the meekly pastoral meeting, briefly explain what normally happens and how this impacts on 'us' as form tutors. Make sure that if the mentee displays any behaviour that does not meet the minimum requirements of the school/profession that it is dealt with straight away or if it is obvious the mentee has forgotten a meeting that you gently remind them that the weekly faculty meeting is in 2 minutes!

Examples

elearning29 — 2017-02-16 15:12:51 UTC

Provide obvious examples of what is considered professional in your school. Particularly in relation to things that can be interpreted differently such as smart clothing.

Knowing what is required and the expectations of the setting.

2017-02-16 19:14:23 UTC

Making sure that the mentee has a clear understanding and awareness of the expectations of the settings and what is required from them at the outset of their placement. Through providing the mentee with this information from the outset, it should help to 'lay the foundations' for the mentee to develop their professional behaviours. Not only that, it will also help to address any issues or mis-understanding that the mentee may have so that they do not carry through into their future teaching practice.

Making use they know what 'professionalism' looks like

2017-02-18 11:32:28 UTC

Making sure they know what professionalism looks like in general and then more specifically within the context they are working in.

Role Model

2017-02-18 19:38:47 UTC

Ensure as a mentor you always act and speak in a professional manner.

Well planned Induction that doesn't end at the first week

louisejaynerees — 2017-02-19 14:34:22 UTC

Be clear what are the professional norms and expectations in your induction. Plan to deliver these in a logical manner. Ask the mentee in the relevant circumstances about their thoughts and what they remember. Refresh what you've said...just because you imparted the advice and protocols in Week 1, doesn't mean they've remembered it in week 5.

Use "poor behaviours and professionalism" from colleagues (hopefully not though!) as a scenario - What their thoughts? What do they remember, what have they learnt were before wading it to tell them what they should think.

Set Expectations

2017-02-20 16:48:55 UTC

Make sure that the mentee is aware and signed up to the expectations of the role from the very beginning. It is imperative that this happens so that both the mentee and mentor are aware of and working towards the same goals.

Professional Modelling

2017-02-21 13:51:40 UTC

Always give example of professional practice and explain the standards and rules in the classroom inside and outside for staff and learners. Give clear guidlines for the mentee to follow. Show the mentee example or case studies of bad practice to compare and contrast the reasons for professionalism in the workplace.

Supportive, strong Induction

2017-02-22 15:15:27 UTC

Starting positively with a clear induction, that provides all the necessary information and expectations, is good for the school and the mentee. All are then aware of high exceptions required in the environment. Ensuring that you are equally supportive in this step ensures they feel at ease, and are can achieve in the placement with the support and guidance you will provide.

Set a good example

cdalton8 — 2017-02-22 17:18:54 UTC

Always act as you would want the mentee to act. Allow them to see good professional behaviour every day. Also give them the time to ask any question that they may have no matter how small.

Set a good example

2017-02-22 17:18:55 UTC

Ensure the mentee is fully aware of all the policies and school ethos and model this by setting a good
example yourself.

2 step approach:

2017-02-25 11:54:10 UTC

Ensure the mentee is aware of any policies and practices within the school by providing them with the documentation but also allow them to observe and see how this will look in practice.

Professionalism

2017-02-25 20:21:50 UTC

I would outline the school's protocol and go through the professional standards in the initial mentor meeting. I would then allow them to observe this working in school and reflect on it at a later meeting.

Professional Standards

2017-02-26 14:47:39 UTC

During the first meeting talk and discuss the professional standards of a teacher. Share any policies which are related to the school they are training in and allow the to observe professionalism in practice.

Show interest and enthusiasm

2017-02-27 17:59:48 UTC

for activities / hobbies the mentee is involved with outside the workplace, to give them the confidence to offer (for example) a lunchtime presentation

Refer regularly to the Teacher's standards

2017-02-28 13:49:06 UTC

Discuss the teacher standards in the induction , and arrange seperate meetings with the mentee to specifically discuss the standards and encourage them to have a target each week around the standards. Work closely with them to encourage their own reflection and professional development around this.

Be flexible

2017-03-07 16:36:42 UTC

Allow for professionalism is be fluid depending on the situation and environment, for example working NEETs or SEN using creative techniques clothing needs to be suitable for that. Be honest about whats expected and role model appropriate behavior

Identify professional behaviour, the impact and benefits on relationships.

a7034174 — 2017-03-07 17:23:08 UTC

Meetings with families and other professionals

2017-03-07 20:51:22 UTC

Give mentee opportunities to sit in and observe meetings led by Senior Leaders, Safeguarding Team or tutors, for example Parents Evening Consultations, Annual review Meetings, multi-agency meetings (if appropriate). Ensure there is opportunity to discuss these meetings afterwards, otherwise learning opportunities may be lost or wasted.

Clarity and examples

2017-03-08 14:23:16 UTC

Setting expectations as early and as clearly as possible are paramount. Adhre to them yourself and ensure expectations are set in such they a way the mentee is confident they can be followed and maintained over a period of sustained time.

Setting a good example

2017-03-09 16:53:15 UTC

Set a good example and expectations from the beginning and follow them yourself.

Keep a notebook

2017-03-11 17:44:06 UTC

Keep a notebook of concerns, ambitions, queries; this should help prepare the mentee to make the most of mentoring meetings, make sure queries aren't forgotten and a notebook is also helpful to look back on to see progress over time (noting achieved ambitions etc)

Model professional standards

2017-03-12 15:12:56 UTC

Talk through with your mentee how you demonstrate professional standards. In my setting (a school for SLD and PMLD pupils), it is also important to discuss how the setting impacts on these standards - for example, in our choice of clothing.

Clarity and modelling

2017-03-13 11:06:30 UTC

Be really clear about what the expectations are from early on. Make sure that these are discussed an not just transmitted. Model good practice in punctuality, preparation, teaching and professional relationships and courtesy.

Identify professional behaviours and conduct. Identify how these can be applied to everyday situations.

a7034174 — 2017-03-13 12:14:07 UTC

Discuss scenarios

2017-03-13 23:25:15 UTC

During the induction process, ensure that mentees have the opportunity to reflect on various scenarios themselves or in groups. The mentees hopefully would be able to discuss various situations, showing an understanding of what is expected, how to achieve this, why it is expected and what the consequences of not following the expectation would be.

Setting standards

Nick_Russell_Hallam — 2017-03-14 11:58:42 UTC

By setting a clear set of standards (backed up by a rational for having these standards) is key in ensuring mentees know what is expected of them and why

Clear expectations

2017-03-22 22:02:23 UTC

Be clear about what you expect and model this approach in your own practice. It's no good telling your mentee 'Do as say, not as I do!'

Teaching standards

2017-03-28 19:00:28 UTC

Talk through the standards, what they mean and what they look like in action. Ensure that the mentee see these in action by other members of staff.

Have the discussion

2017-04-06 14:37:05 UTC

I think we often take for granted that a mentee understands what we mean by 'professionalism'. Have that conversation with them to see what they understand by it and make sure expectations are clarified.

Be Approachable

2017-04-08 23:54:12 UTC

Setting up clear guidelines and expectations is something that is important, but also setting up an environment that's open and encourages the mentee to come and ask if they are struggling. If you can give them something to look to, and someone from whom they might want to learn, this shows a good side of professionalism that they might want to mirror.

Have a framework for difficult conversations, and rehearse these in advance.

2017-04-09 07:50:33 UTC

There are some great books on this, such as "Fierce conversations". It is not useful to presume that you will need to have these conversations, but is always good to be prepared, as we all know from experience that we need to challenge mentees from time to time. I practice conversations in the car and rehearse what I am going to say.

Leading by example

2017-06-27 19:20:40 UTC

Getting the trainees to shadow you as their mentor in other settings beyond the classroom so they can see what is expected. Be clear with expectations and explain why certain behaviour is paramount to being successful in the teaching profession.

Have clear expectations

2017-06-28 10:14:40 UTC

Set out clear expectations. Model professional standards., making sure the mentee's understand the reasons behind them. Be there to model and support mentee's and keep it realistic!

Lead by example

2017-06-28 20:13:48 UTC

Ensure that as a mentor you always act in a professional manner exactly as you would expect the mentee to do. Set good examples and be a good role model - someone who they can aspire to be.

Practise what you preach

2017-06-29 09:43:02 UTC

Model professionalism at all times, in dealings with the mentees and how you interact with colleagues. Be specific about expectations and ensure mentees have full information about school policies, procedures and ethos.

Be clear

2017-06-29 12:39:01 UTC

Explain what is means to be professional. Sometimes, it needs pointing out how to conduct yourself in a professional setting. Don't assume, especially the younger trainees, have ever been in a professional, working environment, and may need guidance.

Be a role model

2017-07-03 10:30:41 UTC

Go through each standards and explain what each one means for a teacher giving examples. Then model professional behaviour at all times, which will help to set high expectations and be a positive role model.

Make expectations clear early on

2017-07-03 12:55:24 UTC

Making it clear what is meant by professional early on can help to clarify. Just saying that they need to stick to the dress code seems obvious for example but unpicking it a bit at the beginning could cut across misunderstandings. Talking through in reasonable detail how hey might communicate with colleagues and bringing to bear some examples from experience could help to illustrate more clearly.

Be supportive

nishrath2311 — 2017-07-06 15:08:16 UTC

The foundation for mentoring is the relationship between mentor and mentee.mentoring is to support and encourage mentee to manage their own learning that they may maximise their potential, develop their skills, improve their performance and become a person they want to be

Model Professionalism

2017-07-09 18:18:06 UTC

Discuss the standards and discuss what the mentee understands each to mean , then throughout the placement model by example - the mentee will take you as their guide so if you are professional then they will learn from you

Talk the talk and walk the walk

2017-07-12 13:16:21 UTC

Demonstrate professionalism to the highest standard and lead by example. Give specific advice on how to change.

Lead by example

2017-07-12 16:13:17 UTC

Demonstrate at all times the high standards you expect from your mentees whether it is in planning, teaching, assessment or forming relationships with students and all other staff

2017-07-13 13:06:40 UTC

Discuss the standards and don't assume understanding of them. Show examples of professionalism within the school setting and discuss the importance of them. Set clear professional expectations for your mentee

Go by example

2017-07-18 08:54:57 UTC

Be a role model in and out of the classroom. Set high, but clear and understandable professional expectations for all mentees from day one.

Set high expectations

2017-07-21 10:36:08 UTC

If the class teacher sets high expectations and models what that looks like it shows the mentee what they need to aim for.

Reminders in context

2017-08-04 13:39:45 UTC

Make sure expectations are clear and concrete from the beginning. Regularly remind mentees about professionalism and discuss specific points in context when/if they arise. The mentor should be a good role model that the mentee can follow.

Unpack professional values

2017-08-06 14:09:55 UTC

Discussing how these standards work in practice and looking at common scenarios that can involve the new member of staff helps them reflect on their own ideas and strategies

Clear Induction

a_woods2 — 2017-08-07 18:59:40 UTC

Make sure all professional expectations are clear from the onset in induction packs and meetings - regular review meetings help to keep these in the forefront of the mentees mind

Clear understanding

2017-08-10 18:58:37 UTC

Ensure that the mentee understands clearly what is expected of them from the very first day, without it being clouded by everything else that is happening on induction day.

Identify and discuss the notion of professionalism

sarahlouisepalmer — 2017-08-14 13:15:06 UTC

Discuss the concept of professionalism and ask the mentee to reflect on their own experience and areas for improvement. Model professionalism always

Model professionalism at all times

2017-09-03 08:41:26 UTC

Show the mentee what they should be in the professional context. Discuss scenarios in mentor sessions about professionalism and ask the mentee to unpick what should/should not have happened.

Use integrity

atodd9 — 2017-09-04 17:16:23 UTC

Be honest at all times. By all means praise them when they do something well but make sure you get them to reflect and work on their areas for development.

Lead by example

2017-09-07 08:05:10 UTC

Also ensure the mentee is professional in everything they do to be a good role model.

Start as you mean to go on

2017-09-09 13:59:42 UTC

Make sure the mentee knows what is expected of them - get them to repeat it back to you or sign an agreement. Give them examples so they know what they can do practically.

Lead by example

2017-09-09 20:59:39 UTC

Model how to behave in a professional way so your mentee can clearly see how it's done.

Be a good role model

rwood17 — 2017-10-16 19:38:11 UTC

Let your student join you in all areas. Introduce them to parents, invite them to staff meeting and working groups. They need to know what's expected so show them all the different professional aspects of the job.

Find something that works

2017-10-17 12:49:13 UTC

Identify a project or event that has worked in other communities in developing relationships between the school (teaching staff and learners) and the community.

Model professionalism

rwood17 — 2017-10-19 17:10:56 UTC

Don't expect someone to do something you don't do yourself!

Lead by example

2017-10-31 13:45:45 UTC

Always display the behaviour and attitude that you wish to be replicated.

Explain and model:

2017-11-02 23:05:42 UTC

Do not expect mentees to just know what is expected: spell out even the most basic of expectations and make sure that everyday behaviours are consistently modelled. If others are less professional than you would like use this as the starting point for discussion around preferred behaviours. Revisit and remind regularly rather than assume!

Explain what professionalism means

2017-11-10 16:40:55 UTC

Identify with the mentee what it means to be professional and how the teaching role goes beyond the main teaching aspect.

Model, model, model

2017-11-12 22:07:30 UTC

Firstly be clear about the professional expectations during your mentee's induction. Constantly model these in your own practice. Be overt about what you are doing and why you are doing it. If you are a professional your mentee will follow your lead.

Put yourself in their shoes

2017-11-14 13:13:29 UTC

How would you want someone to explain to you what is expected? Assume no prior knowledge and explain everything you would want to know to make you feel secure.

Be clear in your approach

2017-11-16 10:11:03 UTC

You should be able to explain the reasons for your choice of behaviour; why is the dress code important? What impact does your punctuality have on your learners? Being able to articulate your rationale/s makes the conversation about professional behaviour easier.

Open and honest

2017-11-18 15:57:29 UTC

Start with a open and honest conversation about your expectations of them - giving them the policies. Then keep your relationship honest all the time. If they have crossed a line you are that honest critical friend. They knew your expectations right from the start.

Model exemplary professionalism

2017-11-22 09:45:53 UTC

Be clear in what your expectations of professionalism are. Make sure you spend time at the start of the placement explaining expectations and continue to model those throughout the placement.

Early stages

2017-12-02 07:24:39 UTC

Set up experiences for the mentee that will help them get a sense of the ethos of the school. Shadowing a pupil or group of pupils for a day, for example, will help them to experience a range of teaching activities but also pastoral events such as form time, house or religious assemblies and lunchtime clubs.

Parents' evenings

2017-12-02 07:27:22 UTC

Ask the mentee to accompany you to a parents' evening for a class they are going to teach or have started teaching. This will allow you to model effective and professional communication with parents and for them to be able to pitch in, where appropriate, and develop their skills in a safe space.

Parents' meetings.

2017-12-09 23:50:56 UTC

Allow a mentee to observe a parents' meeting (with permission from the parents). This will allow you to model how to effectively discuss progress/issues with parents in a familiar manner and will also expose them to other aspects of teaching.

Model high expectations

2017-12-10 18:19:45 UTC

A large part of a mentee's role is to learn through observation. Therefore consistently setting and demonstrating high standards gives the mentee a clear understanding of what is expected of them.

Risk assessment

2017-12-23 15:36:26 UTC

Model how to complete a risk assessment and how to check and apply all safeguarding and child protection legislation. Mentee support mentor in completion and organise a local trip to say a library/park. Mentee can then put into practise their learning and complete a fun practical way of achieving several teaching standards through professionalism.

Do as I do

2018-01-14 14:11:38 UTC

It is important not to have a 'do as I say, not as I do' approach. If you don't model a professional approach, they cannot be expected to either. This is from professional conduct in office environments, to meeting deadlines and lesson structures.

Be clear and practical

2018-01-22 20:53:27 UTC

Ensure you model what is expected of the mentee - leading by example. Allow the mentee to witness you doing extra - parents evening, talking to parents, clubs, delivering meetings. So they can see again expectations.

Build them up to these daunting professional tasks

2018-01-26 09:26:17 UTC

Start off by leading by example - demonstrate a difficult 1-1 conversation with a student or a phone call home or emails to colleagues. After a few of these allow them to contribute to the planning of what will be said in these events, then contribute to events before finally leading them. At each stage have discussions and let them talk out their opinions and concerns. These tasks can be very daunting and people often live in fear of saying or doing the wrong thing so gradually building experience and not closing the door to them from your day-to-day tasks.

Lead by example

2018-01-28 18:25:43 UTC

Lead by example. Never ask a mentee to do something you wouldn't yourself. And don't do something you wouldn't want to see your mentee do. Ensure your mentee observes other good practise too. This shows the expectation is across the school.

Be clear and consistent

brands_tgps — 2018-01-28 18:47:39 UTC

Set clear instructions from the start and encourage the mentee to ask about anything they have concerns about. Provide and facilitate practical ways of getting involved in the wider school life. e.g. support a club, contribute to fairs and parents evenings as well as observing best practice around the school.

Lead the way

2018-02-03 13:17:06 UTC

Uphold professional and make clear by your own actions what it is to be professional. Always give the mentee the time that they deserve and hopefully they will give their students the same. Always invite them to partake in all aspects of school life so that they feel included and hopefully willing to see how a school fully operates.

Be a Good Role Model

2018-02-03 20:11:31 UTC

Make sure that you lead by example, and show the mentee what is expected of them.

Discuss why it's important

hazy_23 — 2018-02-04 12:40:54 UTC

be clear, open and honest about the expectations the school has and why it's important to live up to those at all times. Lead by example and discuss why you do things and why you approach it from that angle.

Take the time

2019-04-12 14:36:17 UTC

Discuss what professionalism is - what do they understand by it? Fully involve the trainee in school life - parents evenings, open evenings, shadow different staff etc.. The more they are involved the more they will see that the role of the teacher is so much more than what goes on in the classroom.

Make the implicit explicit

2019-06-08 11:56:11 UTC

Be a consistently good role model and narrate the learning for the trainee. Eg. I am going to telephone xxxx's parents to inform of them of what happened today as it is really important to give them that immediate feedback.

Walk the talk

2019-07-29 15:39:15 UTC

Ensure that you are a good role model for the mentee and consistently show what is expected, maintaining a professional approach at all times. Explain to the mentee why you do what you do and as much as possible provide opportunities for the mentee to witness this in as many situations as possible (with staff, parents, children, on the phone, face to face, emails etc)

Leading by example

danielle_hilton — 2019-08-26 14:08:36 UTC

Ensure that you always lead by example showing what is expected of all. Also point out aspects that may not be as obvious. Keep the mentee a part of all - be involved/present when dealing with behavioural incidents, parents, other staff (where appropriate).

Leading by example

danielle_hilton — 2019-08-26 15:46:55 UTC

Consistently modelling professionalism and explicitly pointing out those aspects that can often seem the obvious 'when you know what you are talking about/referring to'.

Be Patient

2019-08-28 08:34:32 UTC

Lead by example and allow opportunities to try out what is being modeled. Ensure good practise is always being demonstrated and encourage the mentee to reflect in a journal daily.

Be a good role model

2019-09-22 21:58:40 UTC

Mentees will learn from what they see. Put your own advice into practice and reflect and review your own performance as well as theirs.

Be open

2019-10-12 07:19:38 UTC

Building a positive relationship where the mentee is able to ask questions will enable them to seek clarity when unsure. Also explaining the decisions and processes that you go through as a teacher such as attending a parents evening to shadow will help.

Empathise...

2019-11-15 11:28:21 UTC

Remember what it was like during your training. Take the time to understand and help.

Live and breathe the school values and profession

2019-12-01 18:00:26 UTC

If you model professionalism on a daily basis your mentee will see how this is done in context. Don't be afraid to enter into conversation about why you do things a certain way be that for policy reasons or because of personal values.

Appreciate!

2020-01-10 11:31:10 UTC

Don't ask the mentee to do something you wouldn't do yourself. Encourage mentee to attend at least one school event outside of the normal day but ensure that they are thanked for their support, discuss what they got from it and tell them what it means to the school.

Lead by example

2020-01-18 14:05:25 UTC

Ensure you are professional at all times. Mirroring your mentors professional attributes.

High Expectations

2020-01-20 17:33:01 UTC

Ensure clear and high expectations are outlined from the start. Ensuring that the mentee can fully commit to the profession.

High Expectations

2020-01-20 17:33:56 UTC

Ensure clear and high expectations are outlined from the start. Ensuring that the mentee can fully commit to the profession.

Set the expectations

bernadette_knight1 — 2020-01-21 16:43:52 UTC

Lead by example and allow opportunities for the mentee to grow in their areas of interests.

Be a role model

bernadette_knight1 — 2020-02-04 16:33:47 UTC

Like we are roles models to the children in the class, we are in our roles as mentors as well. Lead by example and take individuals for who they are. We are there to help them achieve.

Enjoy!

2020-02-08 17:05:49 UTC

Enjoy learning from the mentee and also enjoy thinking about your own practice again. Let them share your passion

Provide a good model

2020-03-28 16:25:19 UTC

Ensure that you and also staff the trainee are involved with model exemplar professionalism. You can't preach what you don't practice.

Offer a range of role models

2020-03-31 21:59:32 UTC

Give the trainee a range of teachers to observe and meet with. This gives them a range of approaches and personalities to observe as professionals, which will highlight that the expectations are the same for everyone regardless of role/experience/gender/age etc.

Opportunities

2020-04-03 13:03:58 UTC

Give the trainees opportunities to observe a wide range of lessons, get to know and have meetings with a range of staff and get to know the pupils across the school.

Lead by example

likin1 — 2020-04-03 13:44:58 UTC

Ensure that the mentee know that you are human and you can make mistakes as well as. Be clear of your expectations and show that big tasks can be broken down into smaller tasks.

Lead by example

2020-04-10 13:06:49 UTC

Show the mentee the way to behave and act professionally in all situations through your own practice. It's very easy to say how they should behave and what they should do but the only real way they will learn to do this in a professional way is by observing their mentor behaving in this way.
Make your expectations clear and show how best to break down tasks and workload into manageable amounts.

Be a great role model

2020-04-17 09:23:53 UTC

Be the person that you want your mentee to be, the teacher that you would like your own child to have. Have conversations about opportunities and always encourage them to take part in out of school activities.

Prioritise urgent and important tasks

beth_robinson2 — 2020-04-22 09:52:22 UTC

Write down a list of things 'to do' then think about the ones that NEED doing first. It'll feel like there's no end to do, but then you can work through the list knowing the tasks that need doing quickly are done first.

Model

2020-04-23 08:49:34 UTC

Show your mentee what the expectations around professionalism are in your setting. Make sure they have lots of opportunities to see professionalism in lots of different contexts. Ensure that conversations take place about why certain expectations are in place so they are fully understood.

Induction program.

2020-04-23 11:42:24 UTC

Have a clear induction program which runs weekly and focuses on themes such as professionalism and the other teacher standards as well as opening up a forum for discussion.

Confidence build

2020-04-23 12:24:01 UTC

Often mentees are keen to get involved but don't want to tread on others toes or are lacking the confidence or knowledge to take on things themselves. Just like every other aspect of the role, as mentor we should facilitate opportunities to develop and build confidence until the mentee is prepared and confident to take on activities independently.

Invite them to a LAC/TAC Annual review meeting.

rebecca_wyles — 2020-04-27 10:20:24 UTC

Trainee will be able to see well modeled professional practice and will be able to develop their own.

SMILE!

2020-04-29 11:38:48 UTC

Emulate positivity and enthusiasm and make them feel comfortable and open.

Modelling

2020-04-29 11:40:29 UTC

Especially during the initial weeks/months of Teacher Training, model everything you do to show the trainee your expectations and standards of work. Don't leave anything out, you don't want them to get something wrong if you miss it.

Model and Record

2020-04-30 13:06:57 UTC

Model good attitudes with colleagues and ways to work around a school so the mentee is able to see your standards and expectations. Be sure to also keep a record of events or things that happen between you so you both can look back on them.

Walk the professional walk

2020-05-01 13:58:48 UTC

Lead by example.
Provide advice linked to context.
Make sure trainees understand that whilst they may observe some behaviours that do not model those high expectations, they must not be tempted to emulate them.

2020-05-07 08:36:10 UTC

Make sure the mentee understands expectations from the beginning. Make sure these expectations are modelled by you, and everyone else in school.

Support

2020-05-20 13:15:09 UTC

Sometimes one of the trickiest relationships to develop is with parents. Understanding how to present oneself, what to say and what not to say in different contexts is hard. Be supportive, provide opportunities for the mentee to take the lead but also be there to step in and support them if the situation is a little tricky.

Professionalism: A golden thread

2020-06-02 11:15:07 UTC

Take a tour of your training provision and look at this through the lens of professionalism. Identify where this is addressed explicitly and implicitly - and where there might be gaps. Enhance where needed.
Ensure professionalism is promoted as a core value.
Make expectations clear and understood
Tackle issues promptly and with transparency
Model the expectation
Cultivate trainees and mentors in a way that celebrates the profession
Be sure that vision and ethos has professionalism at its heart

2020-06-02 11:22:17 UTC

at its heart

Never assume. Ask the question - What have you heard?

2020-06-03 15:15:02 UTC

Give a bit of yourself

2020-06-08 10:17:00 UTC

Tale part in extra curricular activities. Allowing students to see you taking part in an activity that is different to your subject specialism opens up communication and relationship building opportunists.

Don't assume

2020-06-08 14:00:15 UTC

Be clear with what expectations are and give examples of them.

Model professionalism

2020-06-12 06:52:10 UTC

Give the mentee opportunities to observe you (and others) participating in professional discussions with parents and carers, colleagues, visitors and outside agencies. Let them see for themselves theoretical expectations in action. Include them in discussions and meetings and help them to develop their professional persona and establish effective relationships.

My Top Five Tips

2020-06-23 21:50:48 UTC

Model consistently professional behaviours and make time to also discuss and unpick these. Similar to the ‘live coaching’ approach. Don’t assume they understand why you are doing something – make the implicit, explicit.

Give them chance to practice explicit professionalism and ensure they receive feedback on their approach. Praise what they did well, unpick what they might do differently next time, give your suggestions if and when applicable.

Involve them from day 1 in wider school life. Invite them to school fairs, concerts, to assist with an extra-curricular club/activity. Review with them how this meets the Teachers’ Standards (8 and part 2)

Give them as many opportunities to be involved with professionalism as possible e.g. parents’ evenings, TAC meetings, pupil progress meetings, school trips, concerts/plays, CPD, training

Lead by example – induct a mentee professionally into the school. Make time to ensure they understand their role, behaviours and expectations.

Scenario Settings

2020-07-07 21:16:13 UTC

Scenario Setting

2020-07-07 21:16:20 UTC

I think the use of scenarios is a good method for exploring professionalism. They not only enable you to safely and securely address issues that could be uncomfortable, awkward or deemed unprofessional to address in any other way.

Walk the walk..

2020-08-04 10:00:53 UTC

As a mentor, you need to ensure you are leading by example. Think carefully about what you do and say (ie. not having a moan about another staff member!).

Time.

2020-08-05 18:00:24 UTC

Give the mentee time, time with you, time observing others, time to discuss, time to reflect, time to learn, time to sleep

2020-08-11 10:35:34 UTC

hey can trust don't openly e critical or say something they may regret as people may not understand the context and it can get them in hot wate

2020-08-11 10:35:35 UTC

hey can trust don't openly e critical or say something they may regret as people may not understand the context and it can get them in hot wate

Have mentees sit in

2020-08-12 10:43:27 UTC

With parent permission, invite a mentee to sit in on a conversation either by phone or in person where they can see first hand the protocols and approach used.

Provide scenarios

2020-08-12 10:44:58 UTC

Encourage the mentee to take on the responsibility of writing a risk assessment for a trip, provide them with a scenario and then walk them through the process

Give them a role

2020-08-12 10:46:19 UTC

Ask the mentee to lead an assembly or two that demonstrate that they understand the ethos of the school and that will appeal to the young people. This can give good opportunity for a discussion around the thinking and purpose of the assembly.

Offer a wider approach

2020-08-17 13:45:52 UTC

Set the teacher standards in other contexts such as for industry, the police or the NHS. Advise reading and then discuss.

Discuss scenarios

2020-08-17 13:48:10 UTC

Set scenes or share experiences that will elicit discussion on professional standards. Be clear that these range from the seeming small like manners and mutual respect to ensuring safety of all. Ensure that in all discussions the mentor regularly references how particular aspects of the work fit in with teacher standards.

rerefe

Model and reflect

2020-10-24 13:49:57 UTC

Ensure the mentee has the time to see standards modelled and build in reflection time to look at what is working and what needs to happen next. Be clear about expectations and discuss the schools policy and procedures with them. Use scenarios as examples and always walk the walk.

Praise for being professional

2020-10-28 17:21:11 UTC

Praise the mentee little and often for their professionalism and development. It will help them to realise what is expected and what is important as a teacher.

Be Kind

2020-10-29 14:21:52 UTC

Remember what it was like to be a mentee and support them to be the best that they can be.

Do as I say AND as I do!

2020-11-04 14:04:41 UTC

It is IMPERATIVE that a mentor displays the same standards of professionalism that they expect of the mentee. By adopting an approach that the mentee will observe it then follows that they will begin to imitate it. If this is picked up in the feedback as being unprofessional then the mentee is left with mixed messages and can lead to further complications and, potentially, confrontations later in the year.

Be kind

2020-12-06 08:53:53 UTC

Teaching is hard, and being a trainee teacher is really hard. Remember that we all make mistakes.

Lead by example

2021-01-04 19:37:36 UTC

Model professional behaviour and your mentee will imitate. Be clear about expectations from the start so that there are no misunderstandings.

Model good practice

2021-06-16 12:35:49 UTC

Surround the mentee with a team who model what you expect on terms of professionalism. The mentee will learn by example what it means to be professional within the school environment. Any queries
can then be picked up on in mentor time.

2021-06-19 15:49:34 UTC

Firm, fair and friendly. To support a mentee, learn a little about them as an individual. What skills do they have that could add to the team? Is it something that they could offer as an extra-curricular offering? Do they have subject expertise that could be shared across the team in an area where up-to-date knowledge is not so high? Ultimately, try to make them feel part of the team, not a bolt-on.

Communication is two-way

2021-08-11 13:42:29 UTC

Communicate your establishments expectations but also listen when things are not quite right. The mentee is there to learn but without understanding their obstacles or barriers it can be impossible to offer the right kind of support.

Set out expectations from the start

2021-09-21 13:37:18 UTC

A high quality induction at the start of the placement and regular meetings with the mentee.

Be a role model

2021-09-29 20:59:35 UTC

Be kind, supportive and available.

Organization

2021-10-07 10:42:10 UTC

I have a weekly to do planner, which allows me to plan out my week. I use it to prioritize which activities/resources/admin I need to complete each day. I log any meetings I need to attend in the week. This helps me to make my workload more manageable. You also need to learn that you will never finish your to do list. Always make sure you prioritize the most important jobs first.

Take time to get to know your mentee

2022-01-08 11:57:27 UTC

Show them you have time and you are available to talk, discuss and guide them straight from day 1 of their placement. Model a calm, thoughtful, self-evaluating behaviour as being the norm in the profession. Have the children's progress and well-being as main core value in anything they will do in schools.

Provide support and set out expectations. Model professional behaviour/relationships. Explain the ethos and background of the school.

2022-01-30 21:33:31 UTC

Be welcoming and informative

2022-02-22 00:43:33 UTC

Welcome the mentee into the school. Ensure they have also the necessary information regarding expectations of the school - but don't overload them with too much too soon. Be available and approachable.

Be clear and open

2022-03-11 14:15:13 UTC

Be clear about expectations; this must also include expectations that consider well-being. Be transparent in your actions, not being afraid to explain why you are doing something/have chosen to do something in a particular way; openly reflect on things that may not have gone as expected and what your response to this will be.

Discuss understanding initially

2022-03-25 15:38:54 UTC

Ensure you understand the mentees understanding of professionalism and what this entails. Support them to understand the expectations of a school and model these at all times.

Practise what you preach - be the best role model

2022-05-03 16:53:14 UTC

Modelling is key

reneeleach — 2022-09-06 13:41:24 UTC

Model professional behaviour (they spend the most time with you!)

Work on small steps

2022-09-26 17:30:00 UTC

Modelling - be a role model!!

2022-10-11 12:43:18 UTC

Remember you were a mentee once before

2022-10-22 12:43:47 UTC

You have probably changed a lot since then. Go easy on them! (Without compromising standards obvs)

Don't forget to praise professionalism

2022-11-05 16:27:47 UTC

As teachers, professional behaviour comes as second nature, but it may take some trainees time to adapt to that kind of workplace. Praise professionalism from the beginning.

Be a good role model to set clear expectations for mentee.

2022-11-20 17:05:18 UTC

Listen

2023-01-08 17:53:23 UTC

Be sure to listen to the mentee's and support them based upon their individual needs.
Not everyone is going to have the same experiences and needs.
Guide, support and model professional behaviours.

Model expected behaviours and create a relationship where they feel comfortable to ask if they feel unsure about anything. Give them to opportunity to speak with parents, but be their to support them through this as necessary.

2023-02-02 12:53:03 UTC

Model Professionalism

2023-02-05 16:56:15 UTC

In order for a trainee to be successful they first need to know what that looks like!

Initiative and participation in the class

2024-01-03 21:15:54 UTC

As a mentor I have helped my mentees set realistic expectations. Our clear communication and being up front has enable participation. When I mentor, I see myself as a guide. Students come from university filled with ideas waiting to put into practice and I am there to enable and help them set their path to achievement. However, sometimes they are so overwhelmed by the reality of the school and being in front of a large group of individual, unique children with specific needs that their skills for observation and judgement contributed immensely into being confident to have the initiative to get involved from the start and not just being an observant but a participant in a child's learning journey.

Be prepared

2024-01-16 12:40:01 UTC

Express the importance of being prepared and on time to start the day. This can help create a calm learning environment. As a mentor, we should lead by example and be prepared with our own resources and lessons.

Remember

2024-01-21 14:10:29 UTC

Burnt-out teachers are not best for pupils

Communication is key

2024-01-21 16:19:32 UTC

No-one wants to be a "bad" teacher, if they are not getting it right it is likely that they don't know or understand how to. Try to empathise & create an achievable path to success.

Be realistic

2024-01-26 21:34:11 UTC

Choose ONE priority job each day. If that gets done, anything else is a bonus.

Don't judge a book

2024-05-16 08:41:03 UTC

We all know the phrase, don't judge a book by its cover and this is the same with training mentees- get to know them and understand how they work/ whether they needs support and try not to bring any pre perceived ideas of them

Remember when you were a mentee

2024-06-12 08:35:59 UTC

Self confidence is like a wall , it grows brick by brick. Help by stating the what to you is obvious. Ask if they have a special skill they could offer the school to help them become involved in the wider school community. and Give support when they initially start speaking to parents. Have positive conversations about managing workload.

All of these will build their self esteem.