We’re commissioning two key pieces of work that will shape the programme and its future development:
- Strand 1: Design and deliver virtual workshops exclusively for Mentors
- Strand 2: Create sustainable resources to support Mentors and Mentees
Applicants may apply for one or both strands.
About the UPEN Mentorship programme
UPEN’s Mentorship Programme connects policy-engaged professionals across the UK higher education landscape. Small groups — one Mentor and two Mentees — meet monthly to share experiences, reflect on practice, and support one another.
The 2026 cohort will launch before the end of May 2026 and run until the end of the calendar year. This year, we’re building on past feedback to give Mentors extra tools, confidence, and connection.
Strand 1: virtual workshops for mentors
We’re looking to introduce a new development strand focused on Mentors. This will include:
- An initial pre-launch workshop, held before Mentors meet their mentees, focused on building confidence, clarifying expectations, and establishing good mentoring practice from the outset.
- A small number of follow-up sessions during the programme
These sessions should:
- Help Mentors navigate group dynamics and boundaries
- Support Mentors to handle common challenges
- Build Mentor confidence and support reflective practice
- Include anything else applicants feel would be beneficial to Mentors
What we’re looking for
We’re not prescribing length or number of sessions. Instead, tell us what you believe is effective and proportionate for busy, volunteer Mentors. All workshops will be delivered virtually (e.g. via Microsoft Teams).
We are seeking individuals with experience supporting Mentors or similar groups across any discipline. While familiarity with academic–policy engagement is welcome, it is not essential.
Strand 2: create reusable resources for the programme
We also seek digital and written materials that UPEN can maintain and reuse in future cycles. These might include:
- Practical guidance documents
- Templates or facilitation aids
- Reflective prompts
- Short “how to” modules or explainer resources
Resources should be accessible, adaptable, and easy for UPEN to sustain.
How to apply
Please complete this form by 1 April.
You can apply for:
- Strand 1: Workshops for Mentors
- Strand 2: Resources for the Programme
- Both strands
Your proposal should include:
- Your approach — what you propose, why, and the principles or frameworks guiding your design.
- Design and development — for Strand 1, outline the structure and content of sessions; for Strand 2, describe each resource, its purpose, and how it can be reused.
- Format — confirm delivery methods (virtual sessions or file formats).
- Your experience — a short bio highlighting any relevant mentoring, facilitation, coaching, or learning design experience.
- Costs — a clear breakdown of fees and any related expenses.
Key dates
| Milestone | Date |
| Proposal deadline | Wednesday 1 April 2026 |
| Selection & notification | Wednesday 15 April 2026 |
| Introductory mentor workshop | May 2026 (date to be agreed) |
| Follow-up sessions | By agreement with selected applicant |
| Resource development (Strand 2) | Complete before Programme Launch |
Why get involved
By contributing to the UPEN Mentorship Programme, you’ll:
- Help shape a national model of good mentoring practice across UK higher education
- Build professional connections within the UPEN network
- Contribute to UPEN’s long-term ambition to develop an accredited mentoring programme
If you’re thinking of applying but have further questions, please get in touch with Joe Armstrong, Programme Development Manager, UPEN.
joe.armstrong@durham.ac.uk
Related resources
Regional Areas of Research Interest: Challenges, opportunities and next steps
