Mentoring FAQs

Do I have to have more than one Mountain Training qualification to apply to be a mentor?

No, the minimum requirement is that our Mentors hold one of our qualifications. We’d like our Mentors to have had the experience of assessment, so that they can put themselves in the Mentees shoes (or boots!) and be willing to help them work towards their own assessment.

Can I apply to be a mentee if I haven’t done the training?

No. The main aim of the programme is to support members to work towards their assessment. Attendance of a training course is, therefore, the minimum requirement.

Do I have to be a member of the Mountain Training Association to apply?

Yes, we want all our Mentors and Mentees to be members. We have developed the mentoring programme as a direct benefit to members. Membership costs only £39 per year and will be the sole cost to our Mentoring participants.

*Price as of April 2022

How much will it cost?

The programme is free to join, and there will be no payment between MTA Mentors and Mentees.

How many times will I have to meet with my Mentor/Mentee during the programme?

It is expected that Mentors will meet with their Mentees approximately six times within the projected twelve month period. It is between the Mentor and Mentee to decide if they wish to have more frequent meetings.

How frequently should we be meeting?

There is no set timetable, but it is advised that meetings occur regularly, so as to avoid trying to work through, and reflect on progress and concerns after long periods of time. Furthermore, frequent contact is a really good way to promote engagement and momentum between Mentors and Mentees.

Do virtual meetings count?

Ideally, and under ‘normal’ circumstances, at least two of the six meetings should be face-to-face, as this helps to embed the Mentoring relationship for both parties. After that it is between the Mentor/Mentee how they wish to stage their meetings. Of course, COVID-19 has made face-to-face contact quite difficult in many circumstances. During periods of lockdown it is understandable that meetings would happen virtually, but we would strongly encourage using video as a means to get to know each other when in-person meetings are not possible.

Will I need to complete any written work during the programme?

The format of your sessions is something that can be decided between Mentor and Mentee, although we do recommend that you each keep at least some notes from what you discuss, and any potential action points/plans. This makes it easier for both of you to reflect accurately on discussion points. It may also be useful for feedback at the end of the programme, too. Goal setting and session reflection forms are available in the Resources Tab.

Who else will know what we discuss in meetings?

Notes on individual sessions and any associated paperwork/communications are only between Mentor/Mentee.

What training do Mentors receive? Are they qualified to mentor me?

Mentors attend training in mentoring skills delivered by MTA. The training sets out: Expectations of a Mentor by MTA and on behalf of Mentees, some coaching and mentoring theories and useful resources, and how to get the best from the relationship. It is run by Trainers qualified in Mentoring and Coaching, who also understand the MTA ethos and are affiliated to the Outdoor sector. The training is not a qualification in Mentoring. It is designed to promote confidence in using tested models, tools, theories and approaches to allow mentors and mentees to get the best from the partnership.

As a mentee, will I receive any training?

It is not necessary for Mentees to receive training in this subject, your Mentor will have sufficient information and capability to guide you. You are expected to access an MTA presentation that details exactly what is expected of both you and your Mentor, and gives relevant information about the Programme itself. It is available here.

What if I don't get on with my Mentor/Mentee?

It is your responsibility to inform the MTA Mentoring Programme Staff if you have any concerns or problems with the existing relationship. They will be able to help you either overcome the problem, or re-select a different Mentor/Mentee.

What if the Mentee achieves his/her goals prior to the 12 month period elapsing?

Please inform the MTA Mentoring Programme staff if this occurs, and they will support you both in closing the relationship, and possibly selecting a new Mentee for Mentors to work with for the remainder of the Programme duration.