Welcome to NASBTT's Mentor Development Modules

You have been registered by the ITT organisation you are working with for access to our professional development pathway for mentors. This is available via online self-directed study or through taught delivery from your ITT organisation; your ITT organisation will advise you on the delivery format and how they want you to engage with these resources.

Our Mentor Development Modules (MDMs) are a modular, flexible suite of resources for mentors aligned to, and offering progression against, each of the 19 strands of the Professional Framework.

On this dedicated page, you will find information and guidance for using NASBTT's Mentor Development Modules.

Getting started

How to Access Get Started Using NASBTT Learn

Module Information

Digital badges and certificates

Teacher Educator and Mentoring Zone (TEMZ)

Access NASBTT Learn here

Getting started

Our Mentor Development Modules are available via online self-directed study or through taught delivery by your ITT organisation. Your ITT organisation will advise you on how you will engage with your CPD and the modules for completion.

Registered users will receive an invitation to access to the Mentor Development Modules hosted on NASBTT Learn.

The following 'How to' video will help you to get started.

How to get started and use the MDMs

Accessing NASBTT Learn

The NASBTT Learn platform (app and website) is home to our Mentor Development Modules (MDMs) whether you are accessing modules via online self-directed study or to completing module assessments following taught delivery by your ITT organisation.

For your convenience, you can access NASBTT Learn on your computer or the app available from the Apple Store or Google Play. Offline access is available via the app for downloaded modules.

How to register for NASBTT Learn

Registered users will receive an invitation by email to access the Mentor Development Modules hosted on NASBTT Learn.Click on the link in the email to accept the invitation and set a password to access your NASBTT Learn account.

Once registered, if you forget your NASBTT Learn login details, select ‘forgot password’ and use the email to reset your password.

**Visit NASBTT Learn or download the app**

Module Information

Module summaries and suitability are available in the module information below.

Modules shown are those currently available for access. Additional modules will become available throughout the 2023-2024 academic year.

Introducing level modules

Curriculum collaboration

Module summary

This module will share practical support with school-based mentors around how to inform and collaborate with their ITT provider in order to meet the needs of their mentees.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for lead and general mentors who wish to enhance and improve relationships and collaboration between provision and schools. The content aims to support mentors in school in reaching out to their providers more openly, as well as reminding both parties of the benefits to be gained when working collaboratively.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

DEI: celebrating identity

Module summary

This module serves as an introduction to DEI within schools and ITT provision. It focusses on celebrating the individuality of our pupils and our mentees with a particular focus on the personal identity of the practitioner.

Module suitability

Mentors engaging with this module need not have any prior training or knowledge on the topic. The module looks to raise awareness of the diverse range of identities within current classrooms. It also seeks to assist mentors in supporting their mentees to comfortably navigate, celebrate and thrive in diverse classrooms.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Deliberate practice

Module summary

Instructional coaching has a wealth of benefits for pupils in the classroom and also mentees. In this module, we will look at instructional coaching and the research that underpins what we know about good practice and how this translates into the effective mentoring of novice teachers.

Module suitability

Mentors engaging with this module should have prior training in instructional coaching.*

* If mentors are unfamiliar with instructional coaching, other modules within the suite of Mentor Development Modules will be more appropriate.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Difficult conversations

Module summary

It is inevitable that challenges will arise in a novice teacher’s journey to QTS and beyond. This module will equip mentors in managing unpredictable situations, as well as signposting to further support should a situation need to be escalated.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for mentors who would like to build or develop their understanding of difficult conversations that are effective and impactful, but also compassionate and considerate.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Effective pastoral care

Module summary

Many mentees will work with a tutor or pastoral group from very early on in their careers. This module explores how to support mentees in this crucial role.

Module suitability

This module aims to deepen mentors’ understanding of the demands of pastoral care for new entrants into the teaching profession. In the post-pandemic age, the demands placed on classroom teachers regarding pastoral care have increased significantly. Additional pastoral responsibilities are often difficult to balance for new teachers who may still grappling with running an effective classroom and mastering their academic content. By clearly defining the pastoral role undertaken by mentees, mentors can reflect upon their own provision, ensuring that all bases are covered when supporting new teachers to support their pupils effectively.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

* Home-school relationship

Module summary

This module explores the foundations of building positive home-school relationships and guides the mentor to consider ways in which they can support their mentee to build effective and impactful relationships with parents.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for mentors at all levels and no prior mentoring experience is required. Some reflections in this module ask the mentor to draw on their own experiences of interacting with parents and so some prior experience of building home-school relationships in their teaching role is assumed.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

How trainees learn

Module summary

Much focus is rightly given to how our pupils learn and how we as teachers can support our learners to reach their potential. In this module, these same values and principles will be applied to the support of our mentees serving as a reminder that they too are on a journey of learning.

Module suitability

It would be beneficial if delegates engaging in this module have prior knowledge of the science of learning and Cognitive Load Theory.

This module is largely aimed at the mentors of teachers working towards QTS and, therefore, makes regular reference to mentees as ‘trainees’.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Inclusion: SEND

Module summary

This module aims to break down labels and stereotypes around SEND, while equipping the mentor and mentee with a skill set to ensure their teaching spaces and environments are welcoming to all.

Module suitability

Mentors should have some understanding of SEND within school settings and their own provision, but no specific training or prior learning is required to engage with this module.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Learning from each other

Module summary

Sharing good practice is essential in ensuring progress for teachers at all stages of their careers, and especially for novice teachers. This module explores the benefits for mentors and mentees of working with and learning from expert colleagues.

Module suitability

This module is particularly suitable for mentors who are supporting trainee and early career teachers.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Mentees & metacognition

Module summary

This module will help mentors understand cognitive science pedagogies, including metacognition. In turn, this will help mentors to support mentees to implement these into their own practice.

Module suitability

This module aims to give mentors time to reflect, ask questions and improve their own knowledge and understanding about metacognition in order to support their mentees fully.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Mentoring deliberately

Module summary

This module examines how mentors can use instructional coaching and deliberate practice to improve practice and outcomes for themselves and their mentees.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for mentors who are already familiar with the foundations of mentoring and coaching in Initial Teacher Training (ITT), and who have experience of leading mentees through the processes of instructional coaching. Mentors may have previously engaged with the Deliberate practice module.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Mentoring or coaching?

Module summary

In this module, mentors will be introduced to the key differences between mentoring and coaching, assessing the strengths of each approach and reflecting on the application of these to their own mentoring practice.

Module suitability

This module will support mentors who are at the beginning of their coaching journey. Mentors will gain a secure understanding of the key differences between mentoring and coaching and consider which methods are most appropriate for their own practice.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Monitoring progress

Module summary

This module will allow mentors time to reflect on how mentee progress is tracked and recorded. The module will share good practice including examples and resources from expert colleagues and research.

Module suitability

Mentors engaging with this module would benefit from prior engagement with the principles of instructional coaching as well as having had experience of mentoring and assessing novice teachers.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Observing your mentee

Module summary

Lead and general mentors will benefit from this module which explores the evolution of effective observation and feedback. Mentors will engage with the research behind how and why the traditional methods of lesson observations are changing.

Module suitability

This module encourages the development and sustainability of a safe environment in which to observe and feed back. Mentors will be equipped to implement good observational practice across their setting.

Mentors may also benefit from engaging with other introducing modules such as Difficult conversations and How trainees learn.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Professionalism

Module summary

Mentors will learn what professional expectations in their provision look like from expert colleagues. Mentors will be equipped to support mentees with their day-to-day professionalism and reflect on what is meant by ‘core values’.

Module suitability

This module will look specifically at Part Two of the Teachers’ Standards and what it means to be professional in an education setting. It will equip mentors in supporting mentees to recognise and emulate professionalism in their own setting.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Rosenshine for mentors

Module summary

Module suitability

Mentors engaging with this module are not required to have prior knowledge of Rosenshine’s principles of instruction. If mentors are unfamiliar with the principles, there are opportunities within this module for them to develop their understanding. Mentors can also refer to the resources and reference section for further information and to deepen their knowledge of the ten principles of instruction.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Reflective practice

Module summary

Becoming a reflective practitioner is a cornerstone of both mentor and mentee development. In this module, mentors will be supported in their own reflective practice with a view to modelling expertise to their mentees.

Module suitability

This module will support mentors in considering different approaches to reflective practice. Mentors will be equipped to support mentees whose self-reflection skills require development.

It may be useful to consider this module alongside those on coaching and mentoring.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Understanding assessment

Module summary

This module will explain broadly how pupils learn and examine the different approaches to pupil assessment. Mentors will be supported to ensure their mentees are well equipped to effectively monitor pupil progress.

Module suitability

Mentors who wish to refresh or improve their or their mentees’ understanding of pupil assessment will benefit from this module. Some experience of assessment processes in line with QTS is assumed. This module will provide further research and explanation regarding the impact and outcomes of assessment in school.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Understanding the CCF

Module summary

This module is designed to introduce mentors working with trainees undertaking Initial Teacher Training (ITT) to the ITT Core Content Framework (CCF). This document sets out the entitlement that all trainee teachers should expect to receive during their training year.

Module suitability

This module assumes no prior knowledge of either the ITT Core Content Framework (CCF) or the Early Career Framework (ECF). It is particularly suitable for new mentors working in ITT for first time, or those who last worked in ITT prior to the publication of the CCF. It is also a useful refresher for experienced mentors.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Understanding the ECF

Module summary

This module aims to build familiarity and confidence with the Early Career Framework (ECF). Lead and general mentors will be supported in incorporating the ECF into their curriculum, as well as enabled to inform and guide their mentees.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for mentors who are new to supporting Early Career Teachers (ECTs). It is also suitable for mentors who may have experience of supporting Newly Qualified Teachers (NQTs) and are now preparing to support ECTs through the ECF for the first time.

This module will support mentors irrespective of whether they will be accessing the funded Full Induction Programme (FIP), a school-led Core Induction Programme (CIP) or a school-developed ECT programme (DIY).

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Utilising subject support

Module summary

This module has an emphasis on the importance of good and current subject knowledge. The importance of research, networking and learning from expert colleagues in subject areas will also be addressed.

Module suitability

This module is particularly suited to lead or general mentors who are supporting mentees’ subject knowledge development. It will also benefit new and more experienced mentors who are looking to enhance their own subject knowledge.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Embedding level modules

CCF key evidence bases

Module summary

The ITT Core Content Framework (CCF) is built on a number of research papers and makes specific recommendations based on this research. This module walks the mentor through the evidence base and aims to explain the rationale behind the recommendations made in the CCF.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for mentors who already have some familiarity with the ITT Core Content Framework and/or Early Career Framework. Mentors who have not yet encountered these documents may benefit from engaging with the introductory modules Understanding the CCF and Understanding the ECF.

This module is also suitable for lead mentors who are new to role and other teacher educators who would benefit from a deeper understanding of the evidence base underpinning these two frameworks.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Coaching: personal growth

Module summary

This module aims to allow mentors to reflect on their own longer term professional development, as well as supporting them in guiding their mentees towards life-long learning. Mentors will consider how coaching skills gained from mentoring can equip individuals in moving into new roles.

Module suitability

Mentors engaging with this module will have a solid understanding of instructional coaching and the purposes of deliberate practice.* This module will apply the principles of deliberate practice to self-development and improvement which will help improve outcomes for others in turn.

This module is particularly suited to lead mentors. It builds on topics covered in the modules Mentoring deliberately and Expert coaching modelled but can also be approached as a standalone module.

* If mentors are unfamiliar with instructional coaching, other modules within the suite of Mentor Development Modules will be more appropriate.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Cross-curricular literacy

Module summary

This module aims to share research-informed evidence about the importance and impact of literacy in all subjects, phases and stages. Mentors will learn how to support their mentees in the area of cross-curricular literacy and be reminded of the importance of phonics for all.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for all mentors who would benefit from learning about or improving their own knowledge and application of cross-curricular literacy. It intends to raise awareness about the importance of literacy and examines research into the consequences of poor literacy skills in both children and adults.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Expert coaching modelled

Module summary

This module will explore a range of mentoring scenarios and give mentors the opportunity to reflect upon and incorporate change and challenge into their own coaching practice.

Module suitability

This module is particularly appropriate for mentors who have previously engaged in mentoring and have an understanding of instructional coaching* and the purposes of deliberate practice.

While this module can stand alone, it would be beneficial if mentors had previously engaged with the modules Deliberate practice and Mentoring deliberately.

*If mentors are unfamiliar with instructional coaching, other modules within the suite of Mentor Development Modules will be more appropriate.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Inclusion: DEI

Module summary

Mentees can often be daunted by matters of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in their classrooms. This module aims to break down barriers and address any unconscious bias which may be hindering DEI awareness for teachers.

Module suitability

Mentors engaging with this module are likely to have a range of prior knowledge and experience relating to diversity, equity and inclusion. This module is suitable for lead mentors or those in other leadership roles who are looking to deepen their knowledge and understanding of DEI.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

ITT subject leadership

Module summary

This module will support lead and general mentors who are working to build effective subject support for their mentees. Mentors will engage with expert colleagues that have successfully developed workable subject curricula, as well as being signposted to professional bodies that can enhance and further develop subject development in their setting.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for lead or general mentors, particularly those developing subject expertise. Mentors will be equipped to support others or contribute as a subject leader across their provision to ensure mentees' robust subject and curriculum knowledge.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Mentoring career changers

Module summary

Individuals that come to the profession after a career elsewhere often bring a wealth of skill and knowledge to provisions and schools. Transition though can be a challenge. Mentors will benefit from this module from Now Teach which explores how mentors can best support career changers and ensure the best outcomes for all.

Module suitability

This module is designed to support mentors and lead mentors who are working with new entrants to the profession who have prior experience in the workplace in other roles and professions. There is an expectation that mentors will have some prior knowledge of the mentoring role.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Networks & scholarship

Module summary

Module suitability

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Pedagogical research

Module summary

Mentors will explore the wealth of pedagogical advice in the current climate and learn how to navigate this in terms of reliability and usability for their mentees. Mentors will gain confidence in signposting their mentees to the most relevant reading and research according to their personalised targets and goals.

Module suitability

Lead and general mentors will benefit from engaging with evidence bases behind current pedagogy. Mentors will consider how to embed this into practice across their provision.

Some understanding of the importance of evidence informed practice prior to engaging with this module would be beneficial.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Specialist provision

Module summary

Mentors will explore how mentee experience can differ according to provision. The module will explore approaches to learning and teaching, as well as pastoral care, in a range of settings.

Module suitability

This module aims to deepen lead mentors' understanding of specialist settings that can offer ITT placements as well as induction, from special schools to Pupil Referral Units (PRUs). Lead and general mentors will benefit from raised awareness about how specialist provisions operate and the positive impact that these settings, and their teaching approaches, can have. Mentors in turn will be equipped to inform novice teachers in this area.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

The Professional Tutor

Module summary

The role of the Professional Tutor is both vital and varied. They will lead a team of mentors across a range of phases, needs, abilities and subjects. This module will support lead mentors and Professional Tutors in understanding the expectations of this valuable role.

Module suitability

Lead and general mentors will benefit from engaging with discussion around the importance and demands of the Professional Tutor role. This module will share practical support equipping mentors or provision leads to enhance practice across their partnership schools.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

The wider curriculum

Module summary

Mentors will explore how mentee experience can differ according to provision. The module will explore approaches to learning and teaching, as well as pastoral care, in a range of settings.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for mentors with experience of leading professional development and mentoring across their school or provider. Prior engagement with the ‘Introducing’ level modules Effective pastoral care, Home-school relationship, Mental health awareness and Professionalism would be beneficial.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Refining level modules

Coaching as appraisal

Module summary

This module will support lead and general mentors in reviewing and evolving performance management processes within their provision. The module will examine how moving away from a judgement-based process and towards a coaching method can develop staff in a personalised and progressive way.

Module suitability

This module will benefit lead tutors and provision leads by exploring alternatives to the traditional methods of performance management and appraisal. It ensures that the benefits of effective continuous coaching run through a provision at all levels.

Some experience of mentoring, coaching and line management is assumed prior to engaging with this module.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Coaching: provision wide

Module summary

This module will assist lead and general mentors, and those leading ITT provision, in supporting wider implementation of deliberate practice across their provision.

Provision-wide coaching brings a wealth of benefits to schools and ITT settings. This module will explore the evidence base behind these claims and offer practical tips in embedding this important practice.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for lead mentors, programme leads, those leading ITT provision and other colleagues with responsibility for developing mentoring and coaching programmes across a setting.

If mentors are unfamiliar with coaching at this level, other modules within the suite of Mentor Development Modules will be more appropriate.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

DEI: Curriculum content

Module summary

Subject leads, lead mentors and general mentors will reflect on where diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is, or could be, examined, discussed and celebrated in their curriculum areas.

Module suitability

Mentors engaging with this module should have prior training in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

If mentors are unfamiliar with the protected characteristics and the principles of DEI, other DEI modules within the suite of Mentor Development Modules will be more appropriate.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Embedding research

Module summary

Engaging with research and remaining informed with the most recent pedagogy is essential if we are to be the best mentors for our mentees. This module will explore how lead mentors can support mentors to continue engaging with research in order to develop both their own practice and their work with mentees.

Module suitability

This module is suitable for lead mentors and those responsible for the professional development of mentors working with novice teachers. It is designed to help support those who equip, train or support mentors, and assumes a reasonable level of understanding of current educational research.

Ethical leadership

Module summary

In the challenging climate that teachers, novice teachers and mentors find themselves, this module examines the complexities of ethical and moral decision making, exploring why beliefs about ethical behaviour can be subjective and ways in which ethical and moral differences can be better understood.

Module suitability

This module is particularly suitable for mentors and lead mentors who are new to role as well as for experienced mentors and lead mentors who have not explored the concept of ethical leadership in any depth.

Colleagues who have explored the concept of ethical leadership in other contexts, such as school leadership, may also find it useful to review their understanding of these concepts through the lens of the training and development of novice teachers.

View the modules on NASBTT Learn

Digital badges and certificates

Each module is identified with a digital badge. On successful completion of a module (achieving 80% and above in the module assessment), you will receive a digital badge and certification confirming completion; you may wish to include these as part of your CPD record.

Digital badges and certificates will be sent to you via email. You will be able to register for a Certify account and access these at any time in the future.

Teacher Educator and Mentoring Zone (TEMZ)

This dedicated resource has been designed to support the professional learning and development of Teacher Educators and Mentors both individually and collectively as a profession.

We believe it is vital to recognise the role of the Teacher Educator and Mentor as a professional who is instrumental to the development of early career teachers.

Our Teacher Educator and Mentoring Zone (TEMZ) includes Mentoring Resources and Subject Resources.

Mentors can use the resources to help embed what they have learnt in these modules into their own area of specialism.

Visit the Teacher Educator and Mentoring Zone (TEMZ)

Questions

If you have any questions regarding NASBTT’s Mentor Development Modules, please contact us.

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Mentor Development Modules – Mentor Information

Welcome to NASBTT's Mentor Development Modules

Our Mentor Development Modules (MDMs) are a modular, flexible suite of resources for mentors aligned to, and offering progression against, each of the 19 strands of the Professional Framework.

On this dedicated page, you will find information and guidance for using NASBTT's Mentor Development Modules.

Getting started

Accessing NASBTT Learn

How to register for NASBTT Learn

Visit NASBTT Learn or download the app

Module Information

Introducing level modules

Embedding level modules

Refining level modules

Digital badges and certificates

Teacher Educator and Mentoring Zone (TEMZ)

Questions

QUICK LINKS

The Voice of School-Based Teacher Training

**Visit NASBTT Learn or download the app**