The role of mentors in shaping the next generation of teachers

Mentors play an integral role in post-graduate teacher training. At Mulberry College of Teaching (MCoT), we’ve meticulously designed the mentor programme to equip trainees with the necessary support, guidance, and practical insights required to become effective, compassionate, and innovative educators.

Building a strong foundation

The educational journey for a post-graduate trainee teacher at Mulberry College of Teaching is supported by a comprehensive mentorship framework. Right from the start, trainees are paired with experienced mentors who are experienced educators, well-versed in the challenges and opportunities of teaching in the diverse and dynamic environments of East London. These mentors act as role models, advisers, and supporters, steering trainees through both theoretical and practical facets of their training.

Personalised guidance

A distinctive strength of the mentoring at MCoT is its personalised approach. Mentors dedicate time to understanding the individual strengths, challenges, and aspirations of each post-graduate trainee teacher. This customised guidance helps trainees in developing their unique teaching styles, managing classroom challenges, and building confidence in their own capabilities. Through regular feedback sessions, trainees can reflect on their progress and identify areas for enhancement within a nurturing environment.

Mulberry College of Teaching’s mentors also receive bespoke professional learning; enabling them to continue to enhance and refine their mentoring expertise.

Real-world application

Mulberry College of Teaching’s mentors facilitate practical placements in local schools within the Mulberry network, where post-graduate trainee teachers can apply their learning in real-world contexts. These hands-on experiences are crucial, allowing trainees to hone their skills, receive immediate guidance, and grasp the complexities of different educational settings. It is during these placements that theoretical knowledge is translated into practical, impactful educational strategies.

Emotional and professional support

The teaching profession is immensely fulfilling, yet it comes with its challenges. Mulberry College of Teaching’s mentors provide both emotional and professional support to help trainees navigate any challenges. Whether addressing difficult classroom dynamics, balancing professional and personal life, or planning career steps after qualification, mentors are there to offer their support. This holistic approach ensures that post-graduate trainee teachers excel in their roles alongside sustaining their well-being and motivation.

Cultivating a community of educators

The mentor programme at Mulberry College of Teaching aims to cultivate a community of educators. Trainees and mentors often develop enduring relationships that extend beyond the official end of the training year. This growing network of educators provides a vital resource, offering continued support and opportunities for professional development throughout a teacher’s career.

Impact on educational outcomes

The success of Mulberry’s mentoring programme is mirrored in the achievements of its graduates. Schools throughout East London commend the preparedness and impact of Mulberry-trained teachers, noting their innovative teaching methods, empathy towards students, and adeptness at managing diverse classrooms. Positive feedback from partner schools underscores the pivotal role that mentoring plays in equipping new teachers.

About us

At the Mulberry College of Teaching, we are passionate about the transformative power of teaching. We strive to provide an inclusive and aspirational learning environment for all our students that focuses on excellent outcomes, collaboration and creative teaching. 

We invest in and value our teachers. By learning to teach with us, you will be immersed in schools and will learn from school-based subject specialists as well as a range of expert practitioners whose practice is grounded in the best available research. 

Based in the heart of East London, you will join our supportive professional learning community of Trust schools and local secondary school partners. Together, we appreciate the complexities and joys of working in a diverse inner-city urban community and will support you to excel. 

We look forward to welcoming you to the Mulberry College of Teaching and learning more about you and your aspirations.

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