Frequently asked questions

FAQs - RACGP Mentoring program

We understand that joining a new program can be daunting, especially when you do not know what to expect. More technical questions will be covered during the mentee and mentor specific training conducted prior to starting the program. That said, below are several FAQs that you may want to know before applying. Please contact the Program Administrator if you have a specific question that is not covered here.

As the method of accrual for CPD points is changing in 2023, all questions related to CPD will be addressed during training.

 

As a mentor:
  • Attend training webinars (where all aspects of the program will be outlined);
  • Be available for regular catch ups with your mentee for the duration of the program (we recommend monthly);
  • Attend follow up training throughout the program (Virtual Cafes).
 
As a mentee:
  • Attend training webinars (where all aspects of the program will be outlined);
  • Take responsibility for the mentor/mentee pairing and schedule regular catch ups with your mentor for the duration of the program (we recommend monthly);
  • Attend follow up training throughout the program (Virtual Cafes).


Please refer to the Mentoring Program website where you can learn more about the program, becoming a mentor or a mentee, the application process and to see information on training content.


The Mentoring Program will run from training in January to the final webinar in December and it is a requirement to commit to the full 12 months. Shorter versions of the program are not currently available.


Training consists of 2 x 2-hour recorded webinars for mentors, and 1 x 1.5-hour recorded webinar for mentees. Mentee training consists of one x 1.5 hour facilitated webinar. These webinars are mandatory to participate in the program and are RACGP approved activities that carry CPD. In addition, there will also be opportunities to meet in your mentor/mentee groups via webinars throughout the duration of the program where you will be able to network and discuss topics relevant to the mentoring relationship.


The training will cover instructions on how to mentor, the goals of the program, roles and responsibilities, and the expectations and boundaries of the relationship. Please see information on training content for more information.


AHPRA mentoring requirements differ significantly in scope from the RACGP Mentoring Program therefore the RACGP is not able to set up mentoring relationships on this basis.  We recommend that you identify a medical educator within your local network who is willing to assume responsibility for supporting you in addressing AHPRA requirements.


Yes, the Mentoring Program is a CPD Approved Activity. Specific details related to CPD will be provided during training.

Please see information on training content for more information.


To qualify for CPD, you must view the training and complete any assigned activities. Training is a critical component of successful mentoring programs and should be ongoing. Formal research shows that in order for mentoring relationships to have the greatest chance of success, both mentor and mentee should receive training.  


Compulsory attendance is not required; however, research shows that mentoring programs that offer opportunities for ongoing training throughout the mentoring relationship had larger positive effects on the participants. These webinars are designed for debriefing and sharing of ideas, and the opportunity to reflect with other participants about the mentoring experience. If you do not think you can commit to the scheduled 1-hour activities each month, you may wish to reconsider your suitability to the program. All attendance at Virtual Cafes carry CPD. Further information will be provided during training.


All of our facilitators are experienced senior leaders who have worked in general practice and other industries, have expert knowledge in leadership development and have also run mentoring programs. A short bio of the facilitators will be forwarded to you prior to training.


The Program Administrator will provide a schedule of dates after your acceptance into the program and a calendar invitation, with a link, will be forwarded to you prior to any scheduled webinar. A reminder email will be sent one (1) day prior to any event.


Mentoring is a voluntary relationship in which there is a mutual exchange of ideas and experiences. CPD points are available for completion of training and participating in the mentoring relationship.

Please see information on training content for more information.


The selection process is a very important element of creating lasting, effective relationships and much depends upon the individual needs of the mentee and the skills available from amongst the mentors. In addition to skills and experience, the mentor’s interpersonal skills are of critical importance in the matching process. Screening is essential to assess the suitability of the potential mentor in relation to the mentoring relationship. Screening may include surveys, videos, interviews, and reference checks.


Please refer to the mentor guidelines.


We gather the profiles of each of the mentors.  Mentees will then be provided with access to view the profiles of a small group of mentors who match their requirements. You will be asked to indicate your first, second and third preference. 


You will receive an email from the Program Administrator confirming you as a matched pair, asking you to make contact with each other. We encourage the mentee to reach out and make first contact with their mentor to discuss the most suitable meeting arrangements.

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