ECF Mentor of the Month Case Study
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ECF Mentor of the Month Case Study
As the new academic year is underway, we are excited to continue celebrating ECT Mentors and their vital contributions to the success of the Early Career Framework. The 'Mentor of the Month' award allows us to recognise those who go above and beyond to support their Early Career Teachers (ECTs).
Winners of this award are chosen based on their engagement with the programme, attendance at events, and nominations from their Headteacher or Induction tutor.
This month, we are thrilled to announce Kate Harris from Ramsey Manor Lower School as our 'Mentor of the Month'. We had the pleasure of speaking with Kate about her journey as a ECT Mentor, and the valuable skills she has gained from her time on the Early Career Framework.
What is your role within the school?
I am in my 10th year of teaching and hold the role of Deputy Headteacher, ECT Mentor and am responsible for guiding and supporting our new teachers as they navigate their first years in the classroom. I help shape our induction and development program on offer at the school, ensuring it meets the unique needs of each ECT, student or volunteer.
How long have you been a ECT Mentor and how many Early Career Teachers do you support?
I’ve been an ECT Mentor for two years and am currently supporting one second year ECT. Over the years, I’ve mentored student teachers and adding this experience to ECT mentoring has enriched my understanding of different teaching methods and classroom management approaches across a variety of subjects.
What aspects of being an ECT Mentor do you find most rewarding, and why?
One of the most rewarding aspects is witnessing the growth and confidence ECTs gain over time. Watching them develop from tentative first-year teachers into confident professionals who positively impact students’ lives and education is incredibly fulfilling. I also find it rewarding to foster a safe space for them to discuss challenges openly, knowing they have someone who understands the pressures of teaching and is there to support, guide, and cheer them on!
From your time on the programme, what skills have you developed and how has it helped you to support your ECTs?
The programme has been valuable in developing my coaching and mentoring skills. I now have the experience to provide feedback in a constructive, non-judgmental way, which is key to encouraging reflective practice in ECTs. Additionally, I’ve developed a stronger ability to provide tailored guidance that helps ECTs address their unique challenges. Through Best Practice Network training, I’ve also improved my own understanding of pedagogy and educational research, which I have an opportunity to share with ECTs to enhance their teaching strategies.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming an ECT Mentor?
For anyone considering this role, I’d say that being an ECT Mentor is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. It’s a unique opportunity to contribute to the next generation of teachers and to refine your own practice along the way. My advice would be to approach mentoring with patience, an open mind and a genuine care to support people at the very beginning of their teaching career. It’s essential to listen, empathise, and encourage new teachers to find their unique teaching style, as well as to remember that every ECT’s journey is going to be different. You have to be ready to celebrate small wins along the way and to support them through setbacks, as this is key to building their resilience and confidence and hopefully keeps great people within our wonderful profession!
Kate was nominated for this award by her Headteacher Colin Moore and this is what he had to say;
"Kate is a superb mentor who goes above and beyond to support her ECT. Kate is always there for her ECT, offering informal advice, support, coaching, a safe space to talk alongside following the training through Best Practice Network. She dedicates so much time to her ECT to ensure that she feels confident and fully supported. She arranges extra release time for her to observe her colleagues, has taught alongside her and has supported in her classroom. Kate champions her ECT and shares her success and strengths with other colleagues. We are lucky to have Kate, she is amazing!"
Do you know an Early Career Mentor who goes above and beyond? Nominate them below:
Looking for more information?
Find out more about our Early Career Framework programme here.
If you would like any more information on our ECF programme, get in contact with us:
Email: ecf@bestpracticenet.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 117 920 9200 (8.30am-5.30pm, Mon-Fri)