Exploring the way mentoring and support affects the professional development and growth of Maltese vocational teachers

Abstract

The introduction of VET subjects in secondary schools was embraced positively by stakeholders, namely policymakers, School Leadership Teams (SLTs), parents and students. This factor is related to the gap in vocational teaching that the Maltese secondary schools have experienced since the closure of Trade Schools. New subjects which link with current industrial needs have been introduced. VET subjects have been reinvented through a system which involves different pedagogical approaches based on learning outcomes, as well as continuous assessments. Grades obtained through assignment work contribute directly towards the final grade of the qualification awarded by MATSEC at MQF Level 3. The learning environment is also relatively new, since students are being taught in new laboratories and workshops within the same secondary school they attend. In light of all this, this study focuses on VET teachers who are at the fulcrum of enabling such a system to ensue. Through an inductive approach, this study analysed how teachers are responding to this change. Additionally, it also investigated how VET teachers are being supported to carry out their role effectively. This study envisages different mentoring techniques which are taking place. Five VET teachers were interviewed and participated in an online focus group. Data collected were analysed through a framework of symbolic interactionism which allowed the researcher to understand how teachers form meanings through interactions and thus, in return shape their behaviour. This study portrays the identity of VET teachers as well as indicates various factors which have the potential to increase professional growth amongst the cluster of VET teachers. Recommendations to improve the current VET system are presented in order to keep up with the momentum of constant practices. This leads to professional growth in the light of figures showing exponential growth of students opting to study VET subjects which may be the starting point of their career.