1.  Purpose

The Workplace Mentor Training Programme provides structured training and professional development for mentors supporting apprentices and work-based learners at National College of Ireland (NCI). This programme ensures that Workplace Mentors are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to guide learners effectively through their work-based learning journey, maintaining compliance with national apprenticeship frameworks and institutional quality assurance standards.

2.  Workplace Mentor Responsibilities

Workplace Mentors play a critical role in the success of apprenticeships and work-based learning. They are responsible for:

• Providing structured guidance and supervision to apprentices in the workplace.
• Supporting the development of professional and technical competencies in alignment with programme learning outcomes.
• Conducting regular check-ins and performance reviews to assess learner progress.
• Facilitating on-the-job training in line with industry requirements and best practices.
• Collaborating with NCI’s academic supervisors to ensure seamless integration of workplace and academic learning.
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations and workplace policies.
• Documenting and providing structured feedback on learner performance for assessment purposes.

3.  Mentor Training Structure

The Workplace Mentor Training Programme is delivered through a blended model of workshops, online modules, and coaching sessions. The training covers the following key areas:

• Understanding the Apprenticeship & Work-Based Learning Model: Overview of programme structure, employer roles, and expectations.
• Learning Outcomes and Assessment Methodologies: Principles of competency-based learning, assessment design, and feedback techniques.
• Work-Based Learning Assessment Principles: Ensuring assessment aligns with National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
• Technologies Used in Delivery and Administration: Introduction to learning management systems, e-portfolios, and tracking tools.
• Supporting Apprentices & Learners: Identifying learning challenges, guiding professional development, and providing career support.
• Legal & Compliance Considerations: Responsibilities under the Apprenticeship Code of Practice, GDPR regulations, and workplace safety laws.

4.  Training Completion & Certification

• All designated Workplace Mentors must complete the mandatory mentor training before they are permitted to supervise apprentices or work-based learners.
• Mentors receive a Workplace Mentor Certificate upon completion of training.
• Ongoing Continuous Professional Development (CPD) opportunities are provided, and mentors are expected to participate in annual refresher training.

5.  Record-Keeping & Compliance

• Participation in training sessions is documented and tracked through NCI’s CRM system.
• Compliance records are maintained to ensure all active Workplace Mentors meet training and CPD requirements.
• Employers are responsible for ensuring that mentors remain up to date with training and adhere to best practices.

6.  Review & Quality Assurance

• The Workplace Mentor Training Programme is reviewed biennially to ensure alignment with evolving national apprenticeship frameworks and employer needs.
• Feedback from mentors, learners, and employers is incorporated into programme updates.
• Adjustments to the training structure may be made in consultation with industry advisory groups and regulatory bodies.

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