Being a Mentor at the NPA
Last updated on 26. Jan. 2021.
Mentors are central to the whole diploma system and perform multiple roles within it, such as:
1. Promoting the Diploma
Mentors should be promoting the diploma, in particular on any design courses or other permaculture related courses that they are teaching. It is a great way to find new apprentices, and so it makes sense as part of marketing.
2. Being a Personal Mentor
Personal Mentoring involves being the main contact for an apprentice. Before an apprentice can register at the NPA they need to find a Mentor who agrees to be their Personal Mentor.
3. Delivering a Range of Tutorials
The range varies according to the level of the Mentor. A Diploma Mentor can deliver Introduction Events, Personal Tutorials, Design Support Mentorials, Technical Mentors, Interim Portfolio Assessments and Final Portfolio Assessments.
4. Presiding over the Apprentices Final Presentation
The final stage for the Apprentice and the final stage for the Mentor is to support and oversee the Apprentices Final Presentation Event.
5. Providing Peer Support
A Mentor is encouraged to be part of a Mentors’ guild to provide mutual support and learn from each other’s experiences.
6. Attending Mentor Meetings
A Mentor is obliged to attend monthly Mentor meetings, during which the Mentor is updated on current events, is updated on the Diploma system and is encouraged to share experiences and key learnings from Mentoring.
7. Developing the Diploma System
A Mentor will become part of a dynamic system and is encouraged to support development and maintenance of the system. Feedback, ideas and proposals can be processed through the monthly Mentor meetings and annual Diploma gatherings.
8. Continuously Developing your Skills
A Diploma Mentor is expected to continue designing, recording those designs, be updated on current events and developments within the NPA, have an up to date Learning Pathway and to attend Continuous Professional Development (CPD) days at least once a year.
9. Temporary leave
A Mentor can ask for a limited period of leave. Upon return the Mentor is obliged to be properly updated on events and agreements agreed upon at the NPA by attending CPD, monthly meetings and gatherings.