The role of the Mentor – how to get the best out of your student teacher - Manukau

Manukau - 14 May 2026 - 6-8pm

We will explore the role of the mentor and the importance of the relationship between teacher and student teacher. This session aims to provide strategies through reflective discussion that will enable mentor teachers to support and inspire their mentees.

This PLD is suitable for Associate teachers/Liaison Teachers and School/Centre Managers

The learning goals for this PLD are:

• To deepen understanding of the mentor’s role within initial teacher education.
• To explore the significance of the professional and interpersonal relationship between teacher and student teacher.
• To enhance mentors’ confidence in using reflective discussion as a tool for supporting and inspiring mentees.

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

1. Identify and describe key responsibilities of the mentor teacher and explain how these contribute to effective teacher development.
2. Analyse the factors that shape a productive mentor–mentee relationship, including trust, communication, and professional expectations.
3. Apply strategies for reflective dialogue that encourage student teachers to think critically about their practice.
4. Demonstrate approaches to supporting and motivating mentees, drawing on examples, scenarios, and shared experiences.
5. Reflect on their own mentoring style and identify areas for further development to enhance the guidance they provide.

Presenter Carla Keighron, Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, Post Graduate Diploma in Education, Master of Education. Regional Education Leader Auckland, Kaiārahi Mātauranga ā Rohe Manukau, Te Rito Maioha ECNZ

Tēnā koutou katoa. Ko Carla Keighron tōku ingoa. Kei Tāmaki Makaurau ahau e noho ana. Nō reira, tēnā koutou katoa.

Carla worked as an early childhood teacher for eight years before she moved into adult education as a lecturer, visiting lecturer, and programme leader. She has developed her strengths in leadership, adult teaching, early childhood education, home-based care and education, field practice, online learning and teaching practice in New Zealand and China. She has taught across various curriculum topics and supported students with both academic and teaching skills.

Presenter: Fiona O’Connell Jones, Bachelor of Science (Psychology and Human Biology), Master of Science (Criminology and Criminal Justice), Post Graduate Certificate of Education, Lecturer / Kaiako - Te Rito Maioha**

Fiona began her career in education as a Teacher Aide whilst her three children were young. She fell in love with educating young minds, and progressed through a number of primary school roles, including classroom teacher, Director of Religious Studies, SENCO, and Assistant Principal.