ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to provide mentors some guidance on the purposes of weekly mentoring meetings as opposed to the purposes of lesson debriefs. It details some external and internal drivers that can shape the purpose and structuring of these weekly meetings. The chapter introduces a Goal, Reality, Obstacles/Options and Way forward (GROW) model to support mentors in conducting weekly mentoring meetings effectively. Weekly mentoring meetings organised by mentors play a vital role in supporting a beginning teacher’s growing sense of professional efficacy because these meetings facilitate professional discussions regarding their progression as an effective teacher. Internal drivers such as the structure of the school day, the focus of the school and other roles and responsibilities held by the mentor may impact on the conduct of weekly mentoring meetings. Using the GROW model can be helpful during weekly meetings reviewing and identifying a beginning teacher’s experiences, exploring options open to the beginning teacher, and so on.
