Once an appropriate match has been found between a mentor/supervisor and a student and officially confirmed by the Director of Theological Field Education, a Learning Covenant is signed and submitted to VST.
The relationship between student and mentor/supervisor is a collegial one in which they respect the fact that each is on a journey of following God’s call. The mentor/supervisor offers the student support and feedback through a disciplined, educational process in which they reflect together on the challenges of ministry in the context in which they serve. They agree to adhere to the School’s pertinent policies.
The key component in the educational process by which the mentor/supervisor endeavours to guide the student’s reflection is the regular weekly or biweekly reflection sessions they hold together. Sample processes for a reflection session are included in our Resources. Mentors and supervisors assist VST by providing written evaluative reports due to the TFE Director by dates set out in the Field Education Calendar.
Related Resources
Constructive Feedback
What are the key characteristics and importance of constructive feedback in theological field education?
LEARN MOREDescription of the Mentor/Supervisor Role
Vancouver School of Theology is indebted to ministry leaders in congregations and organizational leaders in social agency placements who volunteer their services as mentors/supervisors of students in their field placements.
LEARN MOREWhat does the role of mentor/supervisor involve?
Guiding students through reflective learning and leadership development, offering support and resources, engaging in mutual discernment, and fulfilling agreed-upon responsibilities and reporting within the framework of the Learning Covenant.
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