Lesson 5.1: Role of the mentor during the apprenticeship

The mentor delivering an apprenticeship programme for apprentices with fewer opportunities or from disadvantaged background is the key figure in the apprentice’s life during his/her training. Under the mentor’s guidance the practical training is conducted in real working environment.

The mentor is a key factor not only in introducing the apprentice to the profession, but also in building the apprentice’s work habits and employability skills, technical knowledge and job-specific competencies. The mentor shares the experience and the lessons learned in practice, encourages, supports, exemplifies, tracks development and progress, and evaluates.

Moreover, through the interaction with the mentor, the apprentice aligns with professional values and integrates them into his/her mindset.

The scope of work of in-company mentors might differ depending on the settings and context, but in general, there are several key areas in which a mentor’s contribution is needed. These can be summarised as follows:

• participates in the development and updating of the in-company training programme and implements it
• introduces each trainee to the company’s internal rules, as well as the occupational health and safety regulations
• assists apprentices’ adjustment at the workplace and organises the supply of necessary materials, documentation, and tools
• demonstrates individual steps of the work process and assigns practical tasks to apprentices
• controls the performance of tasks, gives practical advice during the work process, and evaluates the quality of performance
• monitors on an ongoing basis the accomplishment of assignments and progress, and records these in the apprentice’s logbook
• along with the vocational teachers/trainers (where applicable), grades each apprentice (summative evaluation)