ECF Mentor of The Month Case Study
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ECF Mentor of The Month Case Study
We are excited to continue celebrating ECT Mentors and their vital contributions to the success of the Early Career Framework. The 'Mentor of the Month' award allows us to recognise those who go above and beyond to support their Early Career Teachers (ECTs).
Winners of this award are chosen based on their engagement with the programme, attendance at events and nominations from their headteacher or ECF Induction Tutor.
This month, we are thrilled to announce Victoria Pearson from Chorleywood Primary School as our 'Mentor of the Month'. We had the pleasure of asking Victoria about her journey as an ECT Mentor and the valuable skills she has gained from her time on the Early Career Framework.
What is your role within the school?
My name is Victoria Pearson, I am the Deputy Headteacher, SENCO/INCO, Mental Health Lead, English and Early Reading Lead, Deputy DSL, ECT Mentor and staff governor. I also teach Year 6.
How long have you been an ECT Mentor, and how many Early Career Teachers do you support?
I have mentored various ECTs over the years, and I currently mentor one ECT.
What aspects of being an ECT Mentor do you find most rewarding, and why?
One of the most rewarding aspects of being an Early Career Mentor is the opportunity to support colleagues at the start of their teaching journey, helping them grow in confidence and competence. I find great fulfilment in sharing effective practice, offering guidance and creating a nurturing environment where new teachers feel valued and inspired to stay in the profession.
My passion for teaching drives me to invest in others, knowing that the support I provide not only strengthens their practice but also has a lasting impact on the quality of teaching and learning and ultimately, the outcomes for our learners.
From your time on the programme, what skills have you developed and how has it helped you to support your ECTs?
Through my time on the programme, I’ve developed stronger mentoring and coaching skills, particularly in how to tailor my support to the individual needs of each ECT. The programme’s structure has been invaluable—not only for providing clear guidance and reflection opportunities for me as a mentor, but also for creating a focused framework for ECT meetings.
Each module has served as a springboard for meaningful conversations, allowing me to adapt my approach and offer targeted, practical support. Collaborating with other mentors has also deepened my understanding of effective practice, helping me better guide and inspire my ECTs.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming an ECT Mentor?
If you're considering becoming an Early Career Mentor, my advice is to go for it! Fully embrace the role and commit time to it, as the support you provide is incredibly important to the ECTs you’ll work with. It’s both professionally and personally rewarding. You’ll not only help shape the journey of a new teacher but also grow in your own practice.
The role challenges you to reflect, adapt and communicate effectively, which strengthens your own professional development as well as that of your mentee. Being a reliable, supportive presence can have a lasting impact, and knowing you've contributed to someone’s growth and confidence in the classroom is truly fulfilling.
Victoria was nominated for this award by her Headteacher. This is what she had to say:
"Vicky has stepped into the role this year, she has ensured two unqualified Teachers completed their AO route to QTS whilst teaching year 6 and carrying out her role as SENCo and DHT. Vicky makes time to listen and support the ECTs reflect on their own practice without devaluing their skills. Vicky has been able to manage her time effectively as she is also taking the NPQH herself, so she models that collegiate approach. We are so fortunate to have her here at Chorleywood and I know she has made such a difference to our two ECT's this year."
Do you know an Early Career Mentor who goes above and beyond? Nominate them below:
Nominate a Mentor
Looking for more information?
Find out more about our Early Career Framework programme here.
If you would like any more information on our ECF programme, get in contact with us:
Email: ecf@bestpracticenet.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 117 920 9200 (8.30am-5.30pm, Mon-Fri)