Mentoring Program
Welcome to the AASW Mentoring Program
Run annually from April to September, the award-winning AASW Mentoring Program facilitates a formally structured program that pairs a member mentor with a member mentee, and enables member social workers to participate in a program that seeks to resolve, develop, or advance a member’s interests.
The program provides a forum for social workers at all stages of their careers or professional journey to develop an on-going mentee / mentor relationship with another social worker facilitated by regular meetings and discussion of matters relating to professional or personal challenges, in a supportive framework. The program’s purpose is not to facilitate a participant to find work through their partnership but instead foster knowledge sharing, insights and learnings which can co-facilitate each other’s objectives for joining the program.
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Apply today for the 2025 program, but be quick – applications close Friday 28 February.
What is mentoring?
Mentoring is a relationship in which an experienced individual (mentor) provides guidance, advice, and support to a less experienced individual (mentee). This guidance can encompass various aspects of personal and professional development. Mentoring is a dynamic relationship in which the mentor shares their expertise, insights, and life experiences to help the mentee develop professionally, personally, or academically.
Why have a mentor?
Mentoring is not limited to just the early stages of one’s career. It can be valuable at all levels of professional development, including senior positions. It’s not just about getting started; it’s about continuous improvement and adaptability in the ever-evolving world of work. Whether you’re just starting out or in a senior leadership role, there’s always something to learn and gain from a mentor.
The mentoring program is ideal for: final-year social work students completing their final field placement, graduates starting their first social work position, early-career social workers seeking guidance and support, and mid-career social workers exploring a shift in their practice focus.
Am I eligible to provide mentoring (mentor)?
- You need to be a financial member of the AASW and maintain your membership throughout the program.
- Minimum of five (5) years practicing social work
- The program runs for 6 months, April – September, with the expectation that you meet with your mentee at least monthly.
- Excellent communication skills
- Have a desire to contribute to the future of the social work profession and be willing to share your knowledge and expertise with your mentee.
- If you are a person that loves what you do, enthusiastic about sharing your passion, regularly set and meet professional and personal goals, you would make excellent a mentor.
Am I eligible to receive mentoring (mentee)?
- You need to be a financial member of the AASW and maintain your membership throughout the program.
- The program runs for 6 months, April – September, with the expectation that you meet with your mentor at least monthly.
- Mentoring is mentee (the person receiving mentoring) led, you need to be organised and proactive.
- It is expected that if you apply and are accepted to the program you will commit to completing and respect the time of your mentor.
- You need to be willing to learn and grow but also to share your knowledge with mentors in return.
- You need to have an open mind and behave respectfully towards your mentor
Things to consider when applying for the Mentoring Program
Before applying, please take note of the following program requirements:
Time commitment: Participation in the mentoring program requires a minimum commitment of six 1-hour meetings over the course of six months, plus additional preparation time before each meeting.
Limited mentee availability: Spaces in the program are limited for mentees. If you are unable to meet the minimum time requirement or commit to the full six-month program, we kindly ask that you consider applying at a future time when you can participate fully.
AASW membership: Participation in the AASW Mentoring Program requires active membership with the AASW. As the program runs over the membership renewal period, please ensure your membership is renewed for the 2025/2026 period to remain eligible.