Course Info

This is a twelve-month online course worth 120 credits at level 7.

From September 2021 all schools were required to apply the Early Careers’ Framework (ECF) process to their Newly Qualified Teachers. This requires good mentors. Whilst ECF mentoring will be covered, this course delves much more deeply into the thought processes and critical thinking needed to make an excellent mentor, going beyond the requirements for the Mentor Standards and ECF.

This programme includes weekly interactive seminars with the course leader, which mainly involves the dissemination of exceptional mentoring practices, and online group discussions where participants learn from each other and the course leader. All students will have full access to our library, containing a comprehensive suite of online resources.

This work-based online course, which comprises of four 30 credit modules at Level 7 that will include covering all aspects of the Mentor Standards (DfE National Standards for school-based mentors, 2016). Examining these standards enables participants to be able to respond to demands from Ofsted regarding the quality of mentoring in their community. Looking at the Mentor Standards will be combined with rigorous academic study at Masters level, evaluating and critiquing a range of academic research relating to mentoring and relating to leadership skills and behaviours, integrating research with practice throughout. Students will be able to critically analyse, engage in and reflect on mentoring and evaluate the implications for their own educational setting. They will be expected to develop their ability to explore what it means to be a critically reflective practitioner in their work as a mentor.

Teaching & Assessment

Each week you will participate in an online seminar with the course leader and fellow students, where you will discuss and analyse examples of best practice in mentoring. These sessions, alongside the written assignments, will support your development enabling you to utilise these skills with your mentees. Each online session will last approximately 90 minutes. Your written reflections will also be an important part of the learning process and will form part of your evidence folder.

Your course leader will be available to you throughout the programme for guidance and support, via virtual formats, telephone and email.

Assessment is carried out through written assignments and evidence-based practice in mentoring. Assistance is given throughout the course regarding the expectations of writing at Master’s level.