| THINK TANK
Brydie Blackburn
Role:
Classroom Teacher
What has been your mentoring experience?
I have been very fortunate with my mentoring experience as I have been gifted a passionate, nurturing, realistic and encouraging mentor. Cathie (my mentor), has guided and supported me through all aspects of the profession. With advice from day-to-day routines, to planning and executing units of works and communication with parents, she has the shared wisdom gained from her years of experience. This has made my transition from intern to graduate-teacher more enjoyable and effective. Having a mentor has enhanced my pedagogy and ability to make a positive impact on my students and their learning journey.
What does mentoring mean to you?
Mentoring for me means support. Cathie’s role in my early career has meant I have a safe zone where I will not be judged, where I can be caught before I fall. With policies and initiatives constantly evolving in the education world, some days it feels like it would be impossible to keep my head above water if I didn’t have my ‘school mum’ there to ask “hey what does this look like, sound like for me in my classroom”.
How have you benefited from mentoring?
I have benefitted enormously from this experience. Without Cathie, there would have been many more meltdowns and my ability to make an impact would be lessened.
What qualities would you look for in a mentor?
Passion. Often when we leave the safe haven of university we are squashed with stress and our buckets become empty. An empty educator isn’t good for anyone. Having a passionate mentor means the passion in yourself is likely to be fostered as you are inspired by the day-to-day operation. Generous, kind and encouraging qualities are also common characteristics of a wonderful mentor.
What would you suggest to ensure a successful mentoring experience?
I would say find someone who operates similarly to you. It is so important to be authentic in your practice if you're supported by someone who teaches in a way that doesn’t work with you, you will end up confused, and the experience will be lost. With so many ways to reach the finish line in education, it is important to remember your autonomy. Listen to the wisdom of the experienced but also remember you are you. My mentor always encourages me to ‘adopt, adapt, delete’.