Trainee teacher working with adult learner, mentoring and coaching their work

Become a mentor

Mentors play an important role in supporting the next generation of teachers. Working in partnership with the University of Huddersfield, you will help trainees develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in the classroom.

Register your interest in hosting a trainee teacher

We’re always looking to work with schools, colleges and training providers who share our commitment to excellent teacher education.

Whether you’re new to hosting trainees or an experienced partner, we’ll support you every step of the way.

Express your interest

Mentoring is an excellent professional development opportunity. It allows you to: 

  • develop coaching and leadership skills
  • reflect on and enhance your own teaching practice
  • contribute to the development of the profession
  • support future recruitment within your school or setting.

Mentors are usually experienced teachers who can support trainees within their subject or phase. Schools identify suitable staff as part of their partnership with the University.

What does the role involve?

As a mentor, you will guide and support your trainee throughout their placement. Typical responsibilities include: 

  • holding weekly mentor meetings and providing regular feedback
  • supporting lesson planning, teaching, and reflection
  • setting clear targets and monitoring progress
  • modelling effective classroom practice and professional behaviours
  • completing assessment documentation and progress reviews
  • maintaining communication with the university tutor
  • supporting trainees to understand professional expectations within the school environment 

To ensure compliance, mentors are expected to provide a minimum of 1.5 hours of weekly support, including mentor meetings and feedback.

Trainee teacher working with students in classroom

Mentor training and support

All mentors receive university-led training and guidance to help them feel confident in the role. The mentor training covers: 

  • programme expectations
  • effective mentoring and coaching approaches
  • assessment and feedback processes.

Mentors also have access to a dedicated Mentor Teams site containing: 

  • key documents and guidance
  • training materials
  • placement information and updates.

Support from the University

We value the expertise and commitment of our mentors and recognise the important role they play in shaping future teachers. Our aim is to ensure they feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the placement process.

You will be supported by:

  • a Personal Academic Tutor, who will work with you to support the trainee’s development
  • the Placements Team, who manage placement logistics and administration.

If you have any concerns or queries, you are encouraged to get in touch at any stage.

Please contact the Personal Academic Team if you:

  • have concerns about a trainee’s progress
  • need clarification on expectations or processes
  • experience any issues relating to the placement

Please contact the Placements Team if you would like to discuss the placement offer or need to withdraw your offer.

Course Leader contacts

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