• keep up to date with changes in the system
• share key learnings, skills and experiences
• cross pollinate the understanding of design assessment
• give support to each other
• identify mentor training needs and learning development.

In order to become a Diploma Mentor at the Nordic Permaculture Academy, you:

• have a Diploma in Applied Permaculture Design . 
• agree to the current Diploma system at the NPA.
• agree to the terms listed in the Being a Mentor at the NPA below.
• attend an initial Mentor training and/or assessment training.
• agree to be active by providing personal mentoring and design assessments
• agree to participate and share experiences during Mentor meetings and Diploma gatherings.
• have an online profile on your own website and/or the NPA website enlisting your qualifications and experiences as a Mentor. 
• agree to follow Sociocratic routine.

In order to become a member all Mentors will consent to the person joining, by Sociocratic routine (in relation to NPAs Needs & Vision, Mission and Aims). The new member consents to learn and implement Sociocracy in order to reach the overall Vision, Mission and Aims of NPA.

 

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 Tutorials, Technical Tutorials, Halfway 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 attends monthly Mentor meetings, to stay updated and to share experiences 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 updated Learning Pathway.

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 monthly meetings and gatherings.