Core Purpose

The Deputy Professional Mentor plays a crucial role in fostering the professional growth and development of Initial Teacher Training (ITT) participants and Early Career Teachers (ECTs). This role involves providing comprehensive support, guidance, and mentorship to ensure these educators are well-prepared, confident, and effective in their teaching practice. The Deputy Professional Mentor works collaboratively with senior mentors, educational leaders, and training providers to create a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes continuous professional learning and excellence in education.

Job Purpose

In addition to the generic responsibilities of teaching staff: 

• To provide pedagogic leadership within the school and Trust using the latest findings from educational  research and development 

• To provide support to the Professional Mentors and ECTP Induction Leads at a DET school n the delivery of ITT Professional support and ECTP training

• To  mentor nominated staff as required 

• To attend training for ITT (UH) and Ambition Institute

• To support with the writing of ECT and ECT+1 induction reports for AB (Alban TSH)

Key Responsibilities:

• Mentorship and Support: Offer personalised, ongoing mentorship and support to ITT participants and ECTs, addressing their individual needs and fostering their professional development.

• Professional Development: Support with the design, implementation, and evaluation of professional development programs and resources tailored to the unique challenges and growth areas of ITT participants and ECTs.

• Collaboration: Work closely with senior mentors, school leadership, and external training providers to ensure a cohesive and comprehensive support system for trainee and early career teachers.

• Assessment and Feedback: Conduct regular observations, provide constructive feedback, and help develop action plans to help ITT participants and ECTs achieve their professional goals and improve their teaching practice.

• Wellbeing: Promote the wellbeing of ITT participants and ECTs, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources and support to maintain a healthy work-life balance and positive mental health.

• Innovation and Best Practices: Stay informed about the latest research, trends, and best practices in education and mentorship, incorporating innovative strategies into the mentorship program to enhance its effectiveness.

  
  

Outcome Goals:

• Ensure ITT participants and ECTs develop into competent, confident, and reflective practitioners who can positively impact student learning.

• Foster a culture of continuous professional growth and collaborative learning within the educational community.

• Contribute to the retention and satisfaction of ITT participants and ECTs by providing a supportive and enriching professional experience.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, the Deputy Professional Mentor will help build a strong foundation for the next generation of educators, ensuring they are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in their teaching careers.

Knowledge, experience and training

Essential:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or QTLS

• Completed the ECF

• Display a high level of professionalism at all times

• Be committed to the safeguarding of children 

• Be an excellent classroom practitioner with an understanding of good teaching and how children learn

• Be able to communicate effectively and positively with all stakeholders

• Be committed to the wider aspects of school life including extra-curricular activities

• Be willing to work as a member of a team and be committed to the school’s strategic commitment, purpose and intent

• Be willing to undertake further, relevant training and to pass those skills on to other members of staff, as appropriate

• Be committed to obtaining the highest standards of achievement, and have the belief that engaging learning, with high challenge and a focus on developing independence, is the most effective and enjoyable learning

• A natural aptitude to model the Trust’s core behaviours – ‘We display transparency, kindness and respect in all our interactions with others, and support each other in all our endeavours.  We are tenacious in our desire to make the difference together’. 

How to make an application:

For further information about this opportunity, please contact Louisa Leonard

• To apply, please submit a brief statement of interest (no more than one side of A4) outlining your suitability for the role and your relevant experience.

• On a separate page, please add the contact details of a referee (either your Line Manager or member of SLT at your school)

• Complete applications to be submitted to Louisa Leonard, Head of ITT and ECT Development (DET) lleonard@danesedtrust.org.uk

• The closing date for submissions of interest is Friday 6 February 2026 at 9.00am

• Interviews will take place week commencing 9 February 2026