Learning Mentor – Level 3
What will I be doing?
Mentoring is – and has been for centuries – the foundation of vocational training and apprenticeships, yet this standard is the first formal recognition of this role. Nowadays, mentoring takes place in all parts of the Education and Training Sector (ETS) and staff-development contexts. Learning Mentors (LMs) support learners of all ages, and all levels, to develop within a new work role. These learners may be, for example, apprentices, trainees or new recruits (ranging from young entrants, to new CEOs) in the workplace, or in any vocational learning environment.
LMs will have sector-specific experience and qualifications, as determined by their employer or professional body, which they use to guide and advise those who are less experienced and new to a work role. The LM is therefore a ‘dual professional’ having both up-to-date knowledge and skills in a specialist vocational or subject area, together with the generic skills necessary to support learners (as potentially a first step towards a secondary role as an education and training professional).
LMs therefore support the development of learners’ knowledge, skills and behaviours, throughout their programme, particularly in applying theoretical learning in practical work environments (and usually on a one-to-one, or small group, basis). They give practical, technical and/or pastoral support and guidance.
LMs collaborate closely with colleagues, other ETS professional, employers and/or human resource colleagues to meet learners’ needs and achieve their potential.
What qualifications will I get?
- Institute for Apprenticeships Learning Mentor Level 3
- Level 2 Certificate in Functional Skills English
- Level 2 Certificate in Functional Skills Mathematics
- Level 2 Certificate in Function Skills ICT
- Level 1 Safeguarding
What are the entry requirements?
Individual employers may set any entry requirements which may include:
- A strong aspiration to support learners.
- (As a dual-professional) A qualification, at an appropriate level in the candidate’s vocational/subject specialism.
- Recent experience and knowledge relevant to the context of the mentoring role (e.g. current industry standards).
What can I do afterwards?
The LM could progress further within their vocation specialism and/or into roles involving the assessment and coaching of vocational learners. They may also be eligible to progress onto a full teaching role within an education and training provider organisation.
