Mentoring
Our Mentoring Programme is designed to assist in the development of commercial and people skills, confidence, strategic thinking and performance. Mentoring, and the use of simple coaching techniques, can enhance the culture of any organisation by helping people to realise their potential.
Every year there are places for six mentors and six mentees, with training provided by a skilled expert, all online.
The programme is free, and your organisation must be a Member of the Association to qualify.
Applications for the 2024-25 programme are now closed.
Applications for the 2025-26 programme will open in spring 2025.
View the Prospectus
Who can be a mentee?
- May be in a junior, supervisor, management, or head of department role
- Can come from any area of the sector, based in any location at any age
- We welcome people from under-represented groups within the cultural sector
- We also encourage people not usually in a position of leadership or management, who want to develop skills and confidence
Who can be a mentor?
- May be a head of department, team leader, or director/CEO
- Has some line management or leadership experience
- Gets a sense of satisfaction from helping others develop and learn
- Someone who wants to ‘give back’ to the wider community and the cultural sector
- Wishes to develop their own mentoring and leadership skills, including emotional intelligence
“Being a first time mentee, I wasn’t sure what I would gain from having a mentor however when I was accepted onto the programme I was delighted. I soon found that my mentor and I were a perfect match, she has helped me to navigate some really tough times at work and come out of the other end with a new level of confidence. Having someone to hold me accountable to my own goals has been something I have found so encouraging and productive.”
Jessica Kendall, Mentee 2023
The Art House“I never thought I’d be fortunate enough to be chosen to take part in the mentoring programme but I am so glad I applied! I couldn’t be happier with my experience so far and have found the programme very rewarding, leaving each session motivated and inspired. My mentor has certainly made me feel more confident within my work and the knowledge I have gained will be invaluable in the future”
Alice Escott, Mentee 2020
Shop Supervisor, Exeter Cathedral“It has been an enjoyable and rewarding experience to be a part of this programme. I am so glad I signed up! I have had the pleasure of working with an engaged and brilliant mentee and we will continue to be in touch. As a first-time official mentor, I felt prepared for the journey from the great training provided prior and felt I had the support of the Cultural Enterprises. I would definitely recommend to anyone considering taking part.”
Hannah Oxley, Mentor 2023
Kew Gardens“The Cultural Enterprises Mentoring Scheme is simply brilliant – providing future leaders in our sector with a space to reflect, consider their approach and access direct support. As a mentor, I’ve found the process incredibly rewarding, not least because of the support provided by CE. I hope it continues for many years to come”
Chris Snow, Mentor 2022
Head of Artist Services, Edinburgh Festival Fringe SocietyFor mentees
Included in the programme is a half-day mentee training session with our mentoring expert, to help you get the most out of the experience and think about how to set your goals.
For mentors
Not only is this a valuable opportunity to pass on your experience and give something back to the sector, but integrating simple performance coaching techniques can help you to get the best out of your team.