Work Based Mentor

Work Based Mentor

Each apprentice is allocated a work based mentor. The work based mentor is in many cases a qualified Diagnostic radiographer. We know this is not always possible and other individuals that can help guide the apprentice are acceptable. It is helpful for the course leader and the work based coach to know if the work based mentor is NOT a qualified Diagnostic Radiographer.

The work based mentor supports and guides the apprentice in their programme of training. In many organisations the mentor and supervisor are the same individual. The role is different from a practice placement educator, with the relationship being more that of a mentor or coach. There is NO requirement or expectation to meet on a weekly basis like there is for a practice placement educator. Overall the time investement for a work-based mentor is around 30 hrs per year.

Work based mentors enable and support the the apprentice by:

• Ensuring the apprentice has dedicated study time equivalent to one day a week (the 20% off-the-job learning)

• Regularly discuss progress with the apprentice

• Facilitates further learning and the application of learning in the workplace

  • This includes the facilation of work-based tasks set by the university (ties into the 20% and feeds into the EPA)

• Takes part in quarterly progress review, or 3-way review meetings with the apprentice and coach.

When the apprentice has completed their learning the work based mentor, is the main person who decides if the apprentice is ready to complete the End Point Assessment (go through their gateway).

Work-based mentors are recommended to have a look at the Course Information section in particular the section on Preparation Before Arrival and the Apprenticeship Impact and Information Resource. There are specific activities the apprentice should complete before arrival. Which is outlined under course information - preparation before arrival on this webpage.

The resource contains further information on how best to support the apprentice and the obligations the employer has - make sure you visit the 'onboarding' section to find out more about expectations. Do not worry too much about the toolkit that is mentioned - much of this is embedded within modules on the course.

The slides below provide some insight in the difference between tutoring or supervision and coaching mentoring. It is clear that the differences are a sliding scale. The second slide provides a useful framework for discussions with the apprentice that fit in with the mentoring/coaching role.

Work Based Learning Coach

The university has a designated individual in the form of a work based coach. This person completes the quarterly 3-way review meetings. These meetings cover the following aspects:

1. Progress reviews in the form of 3-way reviews. These focus on the implementation of learning in the work place and further personal development in the form of SMART actions.

2. Development and maintenance of portfolio (Pebblepad). Together with the Academic Advisor

3. Attendance monitoring

4. Ability to manage work and study (the 20% OTJ/ 1 day a week study day, as well as teaching blocks and placements

5. Support employers in meeting obligations, including an Employer Training Plan

6. Agree readiness for the End Point Assessment (EPA) with the employer and liaise with academic staff around the EPA.

7. Feedback on how academic practice supports the work place

There is a template that is followed as part of the 3-way review that you can preview.