The RTPI has completed its pilot NURTURE mentoring programme with the majority of respondents achieving their professional objectives.
The programme, designed to support the professional development of chartered RTPI members in the UK and Ireland, provided structured, professional mentoring for 25 RTPI’s members at a ‘mid-career’ point and hoping to advance their professional development.
The pilot of the NURTURE mentoring programme has been designed and delivered for the RTPI by Women in Transport CEO Sonya Byers and independent consultant Angela Gainsford of Gainsford Elliot Associates. "It was a pleasure for Angela and I to design and deliver the pilot NURTURE programme, applying our experience of Women in Transport's Advance mentoring programme,” said Byers.
In its commitment to improving and developing in all areas of its 2020-2030 Corporate Strategy, the RTPI conducted evaluation and feedback to inform the future development of the programme.
Of the mentees that responded to the survey:
- 86% achieved all or some of their professional objectives
- 65% learnt new skills
- 71% improved performance in their current role
- 86% felt prepared for broader professional responsibilities
- 57% broadened their professional network
Responding anonymously to the survey, mentees highlighted the inspiring relationships that grew out of the programme, where mentors helped them to think about how they approach challenges in a more positive ways, coming away from each session with a sense of satisfaction. Some reported finding new, senior roles within the industry following their mentorship.
The mentors that responded to the survey appeared to show similarly strong results, with:
- 78% of mentors thought being a mentor was a valuable use of their time
- 82% benefitting from being a mentor
- 47% broadening their professional network
Mentors reported the useful feeling they had helping younger planners, as well as underpinning their own career development. Outside of professional development, however, mentors noted the feeling of wellbeing they had helping their mentees, dealing with issues from management to life changing career decisions.
Gainsford and Byers were delighted with the positive feedback on the application, training and matching. “The mentors and mentees were highly engaged throughout the whole process and have provided invaluable feedback to help shape the future of NURTURE,” said Byers. “We are pleased to be able to support the RTPI with exploring the strategy and next steps following this successful pilot."
Blogs
Read Jonathan Wade's mentor experience here.
Read Alexandra Webb's mentee experience here.
