Creating a Mentoring Programme for Sport: A ... - sports coach UK

36Creating a Mentoring Programme for Sport6• opportunities to express expectations, concernsand expected challenges (and ways toovercome these)• key policies and procedures with regard to theoperation of the programme (perhaps includinga code of practice)• project team, key contacts and support availablefrom them• commitments required from all involved (time,activities, personal development etc)• nature of the mentoring relationship (formal,informal, structured, ad hoc etc).You will need to tailor your mentor orientation tothe specific demands of your programme, and youmay even wish to deliver it alongside an orientationfor the mentees. Bring the two groups together atpertinent points during the session (eg expectations,concerns, code of practice, nature of relationship).Doing this will enable them to develop a sharedunderstanding for the programme.TrainingYour applicants will come from a wide and diverserange of backgrounds and experience. Someindividuals may have been practising for years insimilar roles, whereas others may be new to thisform of coach support. We would suggest that yourtraining should cover the areas in the diagram below.Take an interactive approach to delivering thetraining, encourage participation by all, and value theexperiences of those in attendance – these canoften be your most useful resource. Training shouldcontain a good balance of practical activities wherementors can experiment with some of the skills,techniques and tools relevant to the mentoring role,as well as whole and small group tasks that challengetheir thinking. An element of supported or individualreflection is also valuable – often, this is the mostdifficult to master.At this stage, it may be relevant to hand out copiesof the project handbook/resource. This can act as areference guide and may combine an overview ofthe programme, a training resource and a policydocument. Example content is outlined below:Policy and ProcedureChild protectionProtection ofvulnerable adultsData protectionand confidentialityPersonal safety andlone workingDiversity and equalityGrievanceand complaintsInsuranceExpensesTraining Toolsand TechniquesThe role of the mentorBuilding relationshipsand rapportManaging mentoringrelationshipsEssential skillsfor mentoringProfiling andaction planningLearning preferencesReflectionon experienceGrowing as a mentorSupervision and support Example: GROW Model,ADKAR Modelsports coach UK, Coachwise Learning and 1st4sportQualifications offer a variety of products that may behelpful in the training and development of mentors.Outline the roleof the mentor inthe developmentof coachesExplain how to identifyimportant learningopportunities forcoachesExplain how a mentorcan help to maximisethese learningopportunitiesDevelop a personalmentor profile anddevelopment planIdentify and practisethe core skillsof mentoringManage theself-reflection,coach profiling anddevelopment planning