Support and training
There is plenty of support and training available for those joining the scheme. We recommend that you read the PPD Mentoring Guide and accompanying workbook prior to enrolling on the scheme and visit the PPD Mentoring webpages. Once you have joined we will add you to an MSTeams channel for the scheme so that you can meet other mentors and mentees and share questions and concerns. We will also invite you to optional online sessions to discuss mentoring related topics.
LinkedIn Learning
UIS have developed a Mentoring LinkedIn Learning pathway for you to visit to enhance your skills both as a mentee and mentor. The pathway includes videos covering mentoring basics, developing positive mentoring relationships, helping to set goals and improving your communication skills. This pathway is a great opporunity for you to learn at your own pace and also works alonside the drop in sessions that are listed below.
Peer Support Sessions
In 2021 we are introducing peer support sessions for mentors and mentees. These sessions offer the opportunity for mentors/mentees to come together and learn from one another in a safe space. The sessions are informal and designed to offer people the chance to share their experiences and talk over any challenges they may be having. Mentor and mentee sessions will be run separately. Anything discussed in the sessions should remain confidential. They will be run once a term in the first instance, if sessions prove popular we will look to see if additional sessions can be scheduled in. To book onto a session please visit the booking page for peer support sessions.
Sessions for mentors
9th March : 3.30 - 4.00pm
8th June : 11.00 - 11.30am
4th November : 2.00 - 2.30pm
Sessions for mentees
11th March 2.00 - 2.30pm
14th June 10.30 - 11.00am
10th November : 11.00 - 11.30am
Drop in sessions
We are also running a number of sessions to support both mentors and mentees on your mentoring journey. If you are interested in signing up to a session please visit UTBS for booking details.
Mentoring basics (for mentors and mentees)
24th March : 11.00am - 12.00pm
27th May : 2.00 - 3.00pm
6th July : 11.00am - 12.00pm
16th November : 10.00am - 11.00am
This session provides an introduction for both mentors and mentees. We will discuss the benefits of mentoring and provide guidance on how to set objectives for the mentoring relationship and how to prepare for your first session together. We will also offer some tips about how to be a good mentee and mentor.
Establishing a Positive Mentoring Relationship (mentors only)
Date: 11th May
Time: 11.00am - 12.00pm
In this session we will discuss together how to get your mentoring relationship off to a good start, how to build trust with your mentee and build your confidence as a mentor. We will also touch on how to overcome any obstacles in the mentoring relationship.
Establish a Positive Mentoring Relationship (mentees only)
Date: 24th May
Time: 2.00 - 3.00pm
In this session we will discuss together how to get your mentoring relationship off to a good start, how to build trust with your mentor and build your confidence as a mentee. We will also touch on how to overcome any obstacles in the mentoring relationship.
Self Reflection (mentees only)
Date: 29th June
Time: 10.00 - 11.00am
In this session we will discuss how developing the practice of self-reflection can help you gain self-awareness, understand what motivates you and identify what is potentially holding you back. We will look at practical tools and techniques to help you get the most out of a mentoring relationship.
Goal Setting (for mentors and mentees)
Date : 22nd September
Time : 3.00 - 4.00pm
In this session we will dicuss the importance and ways of setting goals for a successful mentoring relationship and how to break down big goal in to mini goals. We will also be inviting mentors and mentees to share their experience of setting mentoring goals.
Communication skills (listening and questioning) (for mentors and mentees)
19th February : 2.00 - 3.00pm
21st October : 11.00am - 12.00pm
Communication is an important part of any mentoring relationship. The key skills of active listening and asking good questions can make a really positive contribution to its success. Come and get some practical advice and learn some useful tips from two experts.
Giving and receiving feedback (for mentors and mentees)
18th March : 10.00 - 11.00am
2nd December : 2.00 - 3.00pm
We will begin by considering together how it feels to receive feedback an will then go on to consider the skills and techniques needed to give feedback well.