Teacher training and mentorship
We take pride in our commitment to providing exceptional teacher training, supported by high-quality placements and mentors to guide you through your teacher training journey. With 140 years’ experience educating the teaching and education workforce – rated Ofsted Outstanding for Initial Teacher Education, Edge Hill University is a great place to prepare for the classroom and a wide range of learning environments.
Central to our success is the University’s highly qualified and dedicated mentors, including our innovative lead mentors in the Faculty of Education. Lead mentors are expert practitioners in their field who play a critical role in shaping the next generation of teachers.
What is a lead mentor?
For all students on our undergraduate or postgraduate initial teacher training programmes, mentors are assigned to support you during your placements. Lead mentors are experts in their field of education and play a pivotal role in both the training and development of other mentors and students. Lead mentors serve as a bridge between university theory and the practice of teaching in schools. And can provide specific support and guidance around practice e.g. planning and adaptive teaching.
Lead mentors at Edge Hill have a deep knowledge of the curriculum and pedagogy, which enables them to provide you with tailored support. At Edge Hill, many lead mentors are in leadership roles and recognised for their expertise in local schools, ensuring they provide a contemporary insight into school environments and educational best practices.
Insights from our lead mentors
Louise Stemp took on the lead mentor role to share her passion for science and mentoring with trainee teachers, while staying involved in the school community.
I studied for my PGCE at Edge Hill University and my lead mentor role gives me the opportunity to contribute to the development of future teachers alongside supporting their mentors.
Louise Stemp, Lead Mentor
Our trainees undertake intensive training and practice (ITaP) supported and facilitated by mentors.
Why are lead mentors essential?
Lead mentors ensure that as a trainee teacher you receive the maximum benefit from your placements by providing you expert guidance and multiple opportunities for feedback. Their in-depth understanding of the trainee curriculum allows them to support your application of theoretical knowledge into real-world classroom practices, particularly during the intensive training and practice (ITaP) phase.
ITaP focuses on developing pivotal aspects of teaching, and lead mentors are integral in ensuring that this intensive element complements your overall knowledge and understanding.
At Edge Hill, mentors are not only responsible for helping you practice teaching strategies but also for providing well-resourced preparation for employment. This includes coaching on CV writing, application letters, and interview techniques. This robust support system ensures that you are well-prepared to step into the role of a newly qualified teacher.