The role of mentorship in shaping educators into capable leaders

Mentorship plays a vital role in shaping educators into capable leaders, and those who are able to nurture the mentorship dynamic support not only new leaders, but the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector as a whole. 

When good ECEC professionals are mentored and nurtured by competent, capable and compassionate leaders, a culture of continuous learning and growth develops, and the capacity of the sector as a whole grows. 

In the piece below, The Sector identifies five ways in which leaders can effectively mentor early childhood educators, empowering them to become confident leaders in their classrooms and beyond.

Open communication

All relationships – including mentoring relationships – thrive on open and honest communication. When educators feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, concerns and aspirations, a climate of openness and honesty is in play, and true growth can occur. 

When mentors actively listen and provide constructive feedback, a safe space is created in which they can feel valued and supported on their professional journey. 

Lead by example

Mentors should also be role models, and show by example core leadership skills or values like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. 

Mentors can encourage critical thinking and decision-making by involving them in decision making, planning and problem solving situations. 

Have a clear road map

Setting a clear path toward leadership is a critical element of the mentoring relationship. Goals should be specific and measurable, and within the capabilities of the educator being mentored, while still being aspirational. Those goals should align with their professional development goals and the overall mission of the early childhood education program.

Access to others 

Developing leaders isn’t a solo endeavour. Educators should have access to ongoing professional development opportunities from a wide range of sources such as workshops, articles, webinars and other avenues. 

Educators should be encouraged to explore new teaching methodologies, child development research, and innovative approaches to early education to broaden their horizons. 

Promoting a growth mindset and capacity to self reflect 

Educators with leadership aspirations should be encouraged to engage in regular self reflection, and the mentor should help them to identify their strengths, areas for improvement, and opportunities for growth.

Having a growth mindset supports educators to know that learning is a continuous process, and challenges are opportunities for development.

To learn more about leadership in early childhood, please see here.