First cohort in Coach and Mentor Training Program underway in Victoria

The inaugural intake of the Coach and Mentor Training Program is underway in Victoria, with 62 experienced early childhood teachers and educators from across the state participating. 

 

Satisfaction levels amongst the first cohort were very high, with 95 per cent of participants from the first workshop being satisfied with the content, and 91 per cent of participants saying they anticipate their opportunities to coach and mentor will increase over the next 12 months.

 

The Coach and Mentor Training Program is an opportunity for experienced teachers and educators to build and further develop their coaching and mentoring skills while supporting the early childhood profession at the same time, by passing on the benefit of their professional wisdom to those who are newer to the profession. 

 

The program covers the foundations of what makes a good mentor or coach and helps lift the standard of mentors and coaches across the sector. It provides an important opportunity for career advancement for experienced teachers and educators to advance their careers.

 

The Coach and Mentor Training Program is delivered by Mott MacDonald Education Consultancy on behalf of the Victorian Department of Education. 

 

Throughout the program participants experience skills-based professional learning which builds upon their existing knowledge and skills. The program has been designed to complement existing coach and mentor training programs offered by the Department of Education.

 

Experienced teachers and educators who step up to be coaches and mentors are given comprehensive training, equipping them to provide coaching and mentoring to their colleagues at all stages of their career.

 

Through participating in the program coaches and mentors will be able to: 

 

• identify and use data to inform approaches to coaching and mentoring;
• utilise coaching and mentoring approaches to support change; and,
• support their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.

 

Throughout the program there is a focus on actions that participants can implement in their service to embed their skills and knowledge. There is time for discussion and reflection within the group with opportunities to share experiences and insights.

 

This program is fully subsidised by the Department of Education. A backfill contribution is available for participants to cover the core requirements of the program. A travel subsidy is also available to assist with the cost of long-distance travel.

 

The final intake for 2023 will commence in August. Dates for the 2024 intakes will be available later in the year. The Program is a mixture of in person and online modules.

Staff who are interested can find out if they are eligible, or register, using this link.