What makes a good Mentor/Mentee?

As my trainees are already in school I felt it was necessary to discuss the features of a good mentor and mentee. The relationship between a mentor and mentee is vital if the trainee is going to make the expected progress over the 9 months of the PGCE.

Hints and tips for your first day in school.

1. Arrive early- making sure you know who you are meeting in reception. 
2. Ensure you have the relevant paperwork- DBS check or safeguarding form which contains this information. 
3. Dress professionally. This is easy for men, a nice suit but make sure that your tie is to the top and your top button is done. Ladies this is not so easy. I would make sure that you have done two little tests. The first test involves bending down in front of the mirror and checking to see if you can see down your own top. If you can the pupils will be able to as well. The second test is to lean forward and check to see if your thong/knickers are showing at the top of your trousers or if you are wearing a skirt make sure it is long enough. 
4. Make a good first impression. You only get one chance to make a first impression so make sure it is a good one. 
5. Learn the names of the department you will be based in. You may keep a note book so you can make notes as you go along. 
6. Once in lessons you must get involved with the pupils. Don't just stand in the corner of the classroom watching. Once the pupils are working go around the classroom and help. try to learn names. I usually have a seating plan and keep this with me at all times. Again, make notes during the lesson. Finally thank the member of staff for allowing you to be present and ask any relevant questions.
7. Don't become too over friendly with the pupils. They will want to know your name, where you live, are you married? Remember you are NOT there to become their friend. 
8. Finally, enjoy the day. Keep a diary of how it has gone, including what lessons you have observed. 

My PGCE students discussed last week what they thought were important attributes of a MENTEE. 

We then discussed what are the important attributes of a good MENTOR.

Remember, even if you don't agree with what your mentor says or is suggesting you are there to LEARN from them. Be polite and take on board all advice and criticism. Your training year is there for you to try out new ideas, it doesn't matter if you make mistakes as long as you learn from them! 

You must not try and model yourself on a particular teacher but take little snippets from each and every teacher you observe. You must decide what type of teacher you want to be and then create your own VISION!