Starting teacher training is exciting, but it's also a big step. As a trainee, you're learning new skills, teaching real classes and developing your confidence in the classroom, often all at the same time.
That's why having the right support matters.
At United Teaching, every trainee is supported by experienced mentors who help them navigate the journey of learning to teach. One of those key people is your Lead Mentor.
“Leaders ensure that staff and mentor training precisely meets their needs and that it has a significant impact on the experience of trainees.” – Ofsted report 2026
We spoke to Sydney, one of our Lead Mentors, about the role and why strong mentoring can make such a difference during your training year.
Supporting trainees every step of the way
Sydney has been supporting trainee teachers for many years, starting as a Subject Mentor before becoming a Professional Mentor and, eventually, a Lead Mentor.
"What I enjoy most about the role is building relationships with trainees and being their champion throughout the year," she says. "It's incredibly rewarding to watch their confidence and practice develop over time."
A Lead Mentor's role is to be a consistent source of support. Through regular school visits, training sessions and check-ins, they help trainees feel connected, supported and never alone in their journey.
"I want trainees to know they can come to me whenever they need support," Sydney explains. "Being visible and approachable is an important part of the role."
Helping you grow in confidence
Learning to teach takes time, and nobody expects trainees to get everything right straight away.
During school visits, Sydney regularly drops into lessons, offering supportive feedback and recognising what trainees are doing well, as well as helping them identify areas for development.
"It's important that trainees can see the progress they're making," she says. "When you're training to become a teacher, it's easy to focus on what's still challenging and forget how far you've already come."
Alongside lesson observations, Lead Mentors work closely with school mentors to monitor progress and make sure trainees receive the guidance they need at every stage of the programme.
You're not expected to do it alone
For Sydney, one of the most important parts of mentoring is reassurance.
"As Lead Mentors, we take the time to get to know our trainees and understand where they are in their development," she says. "That means we can offer support when challenges arise and help build the confidence and resilience needed to become a successful teacher."
Whether it's a difficult lesson, a question about training requirements or simply needing someone to talk things through with, Lead Mentors are there to listen, guide and encourage.
Sydney's advice for future trainees
If you're considering teacher training, Sydney's message is simple: be prepared to learn.
"Teacher training is a learning journey, and you're not expected to be the finished product in your first week," she says.
She also encourages prospective trainees to embrace feedback, reflect on their experiences and ask plenty of questions.
"Your Subject Mentor, Professional Mentor and Lead Mentor are there to support you. Make the most of the expertise around you and don't be afraid to ask for help."
To find out more about our school-based teacher training routes, visit https://www.unitedteaching.org.uk/become-a-teacher/teacher-training-programme