What is Mentoring?

This chapter will explain the role of the mentor. It will look at current models of mentoring, and will identify a framework for mentoring in the context of early years values, traditions and emerging social policy. This chapter will identify some of the structures that need to be in place to ensure effective practice. Overall, the aim is to allow mentors in early years to gain an understanding of the complex nature of their role and its significance to quality in training, practice and delivery of services to young children and their families. ‘Pause for thought’ boxes are provided to raise issues that are developed as practical strategies in subsequent chapters.