Peer mentoring: Enhancing the transition from student to professional

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Midwifery Practice
• Professional Development

Background:

• Peer mentoring models are increasingly recognized in healthcare education.
• Pre-qualification midwifery programs require robust mentorship to develop essential skills.
• Developing a professional identity is crucial for transitioning to qualified midwife roles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a peer mentoring model implemented in a pre-qualification midwifery program.
• To evaluate the benefits and outcomes of this peer mentoring approach for student midwives.
• To assess the model's contribution to professional development and employability.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a peer mentoring module within a university-based pre-qualification midwifery program.
• Inclusion of practical activities aligned with regulatory body requirements.
• Informal student evaluations of key peer mentoring activities.

Main Results:

• Students reported enhanced confidence, self-awareness, interpersonal, and teaching skills.
• Peer mentoring fostered team-working, leadership abilities, and emotional intelligence.
• Students gained an understanding of mentor accountability and assessment responsibilities.
• Participants noted significant contributions to professional development and employability.

Conclusions:

• The peer mentoring module equips students with essential skills for future learner facilitation.
• The model aids in developing a professional persona, enhancing the transition to qualified midwife.
• The Peer Mentoring Model demonstrates adaptability for diverse educational programs and professional contexts.