Introduction to the Theory of Mentoring

Free mentor training to introduce the basics

This free, online, short course and accompanying workbook will give you an introduction to the theory of mentoring. The four videos below will take you through the basics of building a trusting relationship, the different types of mentoring, how to end a mentoring relationship, basic practice for mentors, and confidentiality and unconscious bias. These are the key aspects which every mentor needs to be aware of and will build on throughout their later experience and practice.

You can gain a solid foundation in these principles, allowing you to start implementing them in your daily life, in less than a couple of hours.

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After watching the videos you can take the course quiz to test your knowledge and understanding of what you have covered. You will also have the option to pay to download the official CPD certificate.

Let’s get started!

Research has shown that people with mentors are happier in their current jobs than those without. Therefore, being able to begin applying mentoring principles in daily life can have a real, positive impact on your personal and professional spheres. Even if you decide to not pursue becoming a fully qualified mentor, the skills and principles involved are universally applicable.

That being said, there can be many misconceptions about mentoring. Often people think that all is required is to have some relevant experience and a passion to share. Unfortunately, this can lead to people thinking they are mentoring, when actually they are either telling others what to do (instructing) or passing on skills (teaching). Being trained in the basics of mentoring is a vital step for anybody looking to provide this type of support, whether as a formal or informal arrangement.

As such, if you have ever wondered- just what is mentoring? How do you structure a mentoring conversation? Then The Mentoring School’s free Introduction to the Theory of Mentoring mini-course is the place to start. Whether you are thinking about getting involved in a mentoring programme or are simply curious to learn more about how it all works, this training is the perfect place to start.

Theory of mentoring in action

Mentoring as a process puts the mentee at the very center of the work – the mentee sets the agenda and takes ownership of the agreed outcomes.

To enable this, the mentor needs to make informed decisions about the approach they will take, such as how much of their own experience to share depending on the mentee’s goals. Effectively engaging with this process does require a measure of understanding about the overarching journey of mentorship, along with relevant roles and responsibilities. Mentoring always has a purpose in mind- a goal that is being worked towards- and this needs to be the guide for setting expectations and structuring sessions.

Part 1 – Building a Trusting Relationship

Part 2 – Types of Mentoring and Ending a Mentoring Relationship

Part 3 – Good Practice for Mentors

Part 4 – Confidentiality and Unconscious Bias

Once you have completed this free mentor training, feel free to click below to take the quiz and test your knowledge. You can also pay to download the official CPD certificate for £36.

If you are interested in becoming a fully qualified mentor, take a look at our Course Catalogue to explore what course options are available. With progressive levels, sector specific qualifications, and a range of access formats available, your journey into mentoring is off to the best start possible. And what’s more, our friendly team of experts are always happy to help with any questions you may have.