All registered apprenticeship programs combine two main components: on-the-job training and related instruction. In ECAAP, apprentices perform the on-the-job training with a registered sponsor (an employer) under the supervision of a skilled Mentor (also employed by the sponsor) . The mentor should be a lead teacher or higher level staff person who assists the apprentice in developing job related skills.
Selection ProcessOne vital part of any registered apprenticeship is having quality mentors to serve as models of best practices and help apprentices learn how best to do their jobs. By working closely with an apprentice throughout the program, mentors can provide observations that give a detailed picture of how the apprentice is implementing a given curriculum, managing children’s behavior, accomplishing transitions and making decisions.
Providing observations and appropriate feedback is how the early childhood care and education industry cultivates quality teachers and programs. Therefore, it is important to have an individual who not only has the appropriate knowledge and experience, but can also provide a nurturing, individualized relationship with the apprentice that changes as the apprentice emerges as a more competent, self-confident, and self-reflective practitioner. The mentoring relationship provides professional and self-improvement opportunities for both the mentor and the apprentice.
The
Mentor Application Process is used to help sponsors select appropriate mentors for their programs and as an instrument for mentors to begin developing their new roles as both teacher and leader.
Pre-Service Orientation Training and Resources
To assist the sponsor in providing quality on-the-job training and support to apprentices, each mentor will receive pre-service orientation training and resources which include:
- Background information on registered apprenticeship in general and ECAAP in particular.
- The Core Competencies is for Early Care and Education Professionals in Kansas and Missouri and how to use them.
- Specific information about the ECAAP Mentoring Project and the mentor’s roles and responsibilities
Mentor Responsibilities & Requirements
The Responsibilities & Requirements for ECAAP mentors provides a general outline of what is required of each mentor through the course of a registered apprenticeship.
Responsibilities include:
- All mentors must have a minimum education and experience to be considered for the program.
- All mentors must complete and return all necessary paperwork to enroll in the ECAAP program.
- All mentors must work one-on-one with each apprentice a minimum of fifteen (15) hours a week.
- All mentors will be responsible for enrolling themselves in appropriate workshops, meetings and training in relation to the project and obtain any necessary books and supplies needed