This page contains some guidance as to how to optimise the use of your weekly meeting with your mentee.
Framework for mentor discussions. Mentor meeting agenda
The Framework for mentor discussion can be a good place to start for specific prompts and ideas. You can download it here:
OneNote
Your mentee’s OneNote portfolio should be open at each mentor meeting. This will allow quick access to all required documents and paperwork.
Target setting
Once per fortnight you should use your mentor meeting to set targets with your mentee.
Targets should be based on a combination of lesson feedback, discussions with colleagues and with your mentee.
We encourage the use of SMART targets.
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant/realistic
- Time bound
The Target setting paperwork for the programme is designed to encourage you to set a specific target with around 3 linked actions or strategies. It is these actions and strategies that will ensure that the target is a SMART target by setting clear parameters for the Beginning Teacher to act on.
An example of an unhelpful target is: To improve behaviour management
A more helpful version would be: Develop more effective behaviour management strategies for my Year 9 class.
With the specific linked actions:
1. Observe experienced teachers of Year 9 classes and make notes on strategies used (e.g. entry routines).
2. Create and explicitly teach a new classroom routine for an orderly start to the lesson.
3. Apply a predictable system of rewards and sanctions consistently.
This version of the target ensures that it is specific – with clear actions decided, measurable and time-bound.
There is further advice in the video below as to how to use the target setting paperwork.
Progress Tracker
As part of reviewing and re-setting beginning teacher targets, you should also review and update the highlighted Progress Tracker at least once per fortnight.
More guidance around the use of this document can be found here (including a guidance video)
Developmental activities
Once per fortnight (on the week when you are not setting targets) you should identify a suitable development activity to work on with your mentee that is linked to their current targets.
Suggested activities are listed below and there short guidance documents provided for each.
- Co-planning
- Co-observation
- Developmental discussion
- Use of film to aid lesson feedback