We understand the crucial role that Mentors play in the success of the Early Career Framework. To acknowledge and celebrate their hard work and contributions to the programme, we have introduced the 'Mentor of the Month' initiative. This is an opportunity to recognise Mentors who go the extra mile to support their Early Career Teachers.

The winners of this award are selected based on their engagement on the programme, attendance at events, and nominations from their Headteacher or Induction Tutor.

This month, we are pleased to announce that the winner of the 'Mentor of the Month' award is Lucy McConaghy from St Joseph's College. We had the opportunity to speak with Lucy about her experiences as a Mentor and the skills she has developed through the Early Career Framework programme.

What is your role within the school?

I'm 2nd in English, ECF mentor, SCITT ITT mentor and subject lead.

How long have you been a Mentor and how many Early Career Teachers do you support?

I have been mentoring within initial and early career teaching for 5 years. I mentor one Early Career Teacher at the moment. 

What aspects of being an Early Career Mentor do you find most rewarding, and why?

I enjoy supporting teachers at the beginning of their professional journey. I really like the coaching element and non-judgmental and supportive aspects of the role, as I feel this really helps ECTs thrive and to find their own voice and style in the classroom. 

From your time on the programme, what skills have you developed and how has it helped you to support your ECTs? 

The best mentoring programmes feel like a two-way process, where mentors can learn as well as mentees, and I like the professional conversations and learning this can lead to.  I've had to learn how to support a mentee as a 'critical friend' rather than as more of a performance management process giving judgemental decisions. I think this is actually an invaluable skill for anyone to develop as a line manager as this kind of coaching ultimately leads to better working relationships and helps staff at all levels to improve their teaching in a nurturing environment. 

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming an Early Career Mentor?

Do it, it's worth it! Seeing someone grow as a professional and a person over two years and become a confident, capable, equal colleague working next to you is amazing. 

Do you know an Early Career Mentor that goes above and beyond? Nominate them below:

Nominate a Mentor 

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)

Visit our ECF page