Willing and unable or willing and able? Insights from an evaluation of a mentoring training programme for early childhood teachers in Ireland

Abstract

ABSTRACT Many early childhood teachers mentor pre-service teachers engaging in practicum within their settings. Given their significance in early childhood teacher preparation, mentors must be prepared for their mentoring role (Balduzzi and Lazzarri 2015). However, while early childhood teachers may be willing to mentor, they may be ill-equipped for this role. This paper draws upon participants’ responses to an evaluation of a mentoring training programme in Ireland. Findings indicate that participation in the programme resulted in greater knowledge and understanding of mentoring processes, approaches, skills, roles and responsibilities; increased confidence in participants’ ability to mentor; enhanced critical reflection; ability to share learning; improved professional practice, and willingness to embrace communities of practice. From a policy perspective, a mentoring policy concerning a continuum of early childhood teacher education, financial support and time in lieu is essential to enable mentors to fulfil their mentoring role in supporting the professional formation of pre-service teachers.