Thatcham Research launches Developing Learners Through Mentoring scheme
Thatcham Research has launched the Developing Learners Through Mentoring scheme, designed to equip mentors with key teaching, coaching and communication skills.
Developed by Thatcham Research’s Automotive Academy to fit around workplace commitments, the free webinar programme is delivered through a series of 45-minute sessions over three weeks, designed .
The launch comes with 73% of repairers believing the industry faces a skills gap, with 61% believing the most effective way to tackle the challenge is through apprenticeships and 48% citing technical training. But while many skilled technicians already mentor apprentices, technical knowledge alone does not automatically give them the necessary skills to impart their knowledge effectively.
Developing Learners Through Mentoring provides mentors with practical teaching methods including adaptive teaching techniques, effective questioning, constructive feedback and goal-setting approaches. It helps mentors to identify knowledge gaps and understand how different people build confidence and develop competence. It explores a variety of approaches to learning, helping mentors adapt to the individual and create the best environment for workplace progression.
Des James, automotive skills development coach at Thatcham Research and creator of the programme, said: “We often assume that an expert technician will naturally know how to teach, coach and mentor others. The reality is that mentoring is a skill in its own right.
“This course gives mentors practical tools to bring out the best in every developing technician, while recognising that people learn in different ways.
“Sometimes what looks like an apprentice struggling is actually a mismatch between teaching and learning styles. If we can help mentors make small adjustments to their approach, we can remove barriers to learning and unlock talent that might otherwise be lost.”
Dean Lander, head of repair sector services at Thatcham Research, added: “This initiative forms part of our ongoing commitment to supporting skills development across the automotive industry, helping employers build the capable and confident workforce needed to repair the vehicles of today and tomorrow.
“As government reforms seek to expand apprenticeship opportunities and encourage more young people into skilled careers, effective workplace mentoring will play a crucial role in helping learners develop confidence, competence and long-term career prospects.”
Anyone interested in taking part should contact [email protected]
