All mentors should be provided with adequate training before they begin working with mentees. This ensures the mentor is informed and well-equipped once they are matched with a mentee.
The training should provide relevant information about:
The training should be both practical and theoretical. It should also be tailored to the target mentee group. As such, specific topics for training could include:
Training can be conducted in a number of different ways. The type and length of training chosen will depend on the intensity of the program and the assumed needs of mentees. For example, when working with youth with drug and alcohol problems staff should be adequately trained to address these issues. A school mentoring program designed to support 11-12 year old’s to transition to high school will require different training.
The training may include one or more of the following elements:
Additionally, supplementary materials may be necessary for mentors. These could include detailed information and resources about weekly modules and activities to conduct. These materials could be hard copies (e.g. workbook or binder) or online resources (e.g. website).
If necessary, training should be ongoing.
Programs that provide practical and theoretical mentor training have been implemented with the following target groups:
25 Nov 2022
We acknowledge Aboriginal people as the First Nations Peoples of NSW and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and future.
Informed by lessons of the past, Department of Communities and Justice is improving how we work with Aboriginal people and communities. We listen and learn from the knowledge, strength and resilience of Stolen Generations Survivors, Aboriginal Elders and Aboriginal communities.
You can access our apology to the Stolen Generations.