ABSTRACT
Mentoring is very much in vogue. Programmes and projects are everywhere, promoting the view that in order to get ahead, further your professional development and progress in your career, a mentor is invaluable. But what can you expect from mentoring in terms of developing your teaching? Essentially, a mentoring relationship is centred on learning. Starting out in a new job role, taking on a new challenge, or moving into a different phase of your career are all aspects of your practice where mentoring can have a role to play. However, it is important to be realistic. Having a mentor will not automatically make you a better teacher – you will have to be prepared to share issues with your mentor, discuss ideas and strategies, reflect on your own development and be prepared to make your own decisions. It is not the mentor’s job to do this for you but instead to support you in achieving your objectives.
