Experiences of mentoring ST4-ST5s amongst a group of orthodontic trainers at Bristol Dental School and Hospital

Abstract

Objective:

To explore the experiences of mentoring higher-grade trainees amongst senior orthodontic trainers at Bristol Dental School.

Design:

Qualitative study using interpretive methodology.

Setting:

University of Bristol Dental School.

Participants:

Six consultant orthodontists, five of whom also have district general hospital experience.

Methods:

One-to-one semi-structured interviews were undertaken on a purposeful sample of orthodontic trainers. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results:

Four main themes emerged from the data were. They were: How to Mentor; Mentor–Mentee Pairings; Resources and Success; and Pitfalls of Mentoring.

Conclusion:

The present study revealed that senior trainers have a good understanding of the qualities of a mentor and appreciate the roles which mentors need to perform. They are altruistic in their motives, but would benefit from more time, organisational support and training to help them perform their duties better.