“It is exciting to be able to create a lasting teaching legacy that reaches beyond your own students. I learned skills from my mentee and it was great to analyse and hone my own ideas to pass on to another.“
– 2022 Mentor
Mentoring is a way for teachers to improve their skills and knowledge in their profession. Experienced and knowledgeable teachers (mentors) work with early career or less-experienced teachers (participating teachers) to help them build confidence and competence in teaching music. The mentoring process is tailored to the needs and goals of each participating teacher.
In the NMTMP (National Music Teacher Mentoring Program), mentoring is done in a collaborative way that allows participating teachers to build their confidence and skills in delivering music experiences to students. Mentors and participating teachers work together to set and track goals, and the program leads to professional and personal growth for each. In some cases, participating teachers become mentors themselves, creating a cycle of professional development.
“You become SO AWARE of your own practice. The reflection on your own practice makes it such a powerful learning tool about yourself.“
– 2022 Mentor
What are the benefits of mentoring?
- Share your expertise and love of music – have a lasting impact on the future of music education in Australia!
- Nurture confidence and competence in teaching music
- Build your professional capacity in music education, mentoring & coaching
- Be part of a Professional Learning Community of music education specialists
- Access to teaching resources and the opportunity to share your expertise in creating new resources.
- Attend the 2023 Mentor Conference
- Membership of Dr Anita Collins’ Bigger Better Brains resource
“You build a wonderful network with fellow mentors who are there to share the successes and challenges you encounter.”
– 2022 Mentor
2023 Mentor Conference
28-30 March, Melbourne
Presenters included Louise Barkl, Bronwyn Ryrie Jones, Dr Anita Collins, Mark O’Leary & Professor Margaret Barrett.
Participation in this conference provided 11.75 hours of Teacher Identified Professional Learning which aligns with a range of Australian Professional Standards for Teachers for Proficient and Highly Accomplished Teachers.
We are seeking music education specialists from across metropolitan, regional and rural Australia, to join our national collective of Mentors, and advocate for quality music education.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Music specialist teachers are welcome to apply with:
- Current approval to teach: This varies across jurisdictions and generally requires a current casual number, VET registration or similar. Speak to your local coordinator to find out more.
- Demonstrated excellent P-6 classroom music teaching skills (new mentors will be required to submit a video)
- At least 3 years classroom music teaching experience
- Principal approval to participate in the program.
You become SO AWARE of your own practice. The reflection on your own practice makes it such a powerful learning tool about yourself.
– 2022 Mentor
