WSD’s Second Pathfinder Programme Kicks Off With 2026’s Mentor Training Workshop
We’re proud to share that WSD’s second Pathfinder Programme kicked off yesterday, with the mentor briefing workshop taking place at their Canary Wharf offices.
This year’s programme marks WSD’s continued emphasis on social mobility and supporting the next generation of talent, and we’re excited for what this year’s initiative will bring.
Read on to learn more about yesterday’s session and how this will prepare the mentors for their time on the programme.
WSD’s Mentor Training Workshop
The workshop centres on equipping mentors with the mindset and approach needed to support young people effectively, combining elements of coaching and mentoring to encourage independent thinking rather than dependency. It explores the realities facing students today, such as competing pressures, limited exposure to professional environments, and the need for tangible outcomes, while guiding mentors on how to create supportive, relatable relationships built on trust, psychological safety, and authenticity.
A strong emphasis is placed on communication skills, particularly active listening and the ability to respond thoughtfully to both verbal and non-verbal cues. Mentors are encouraged to share their own experiences, build rapport through open conversation, and ask purposeful questions that help mentees reflect and explore their options. Alongside this, the workshop introduces key tools to support career exploration and confidence-building, including exercises that help mentees identify their strengths, interests, and potential pathways, as well as activities that demonstrate the value of networking and professional connections.
Finally, the programme highlights the importance of structured, outcome-driven mentoring. Mentors are provided with a clear framework for running sessions, from initial rapport building through to action planning, ensuring each interaction is focused and impactful. Practical tools such as the ACCE goal-setting method enable mentors to help mentees translate ambition into realistic, actionable steps, while scenario-based discussions prepare them to handle common questions and challenges. Overall, the workshop ensures mentoring is both purposeful and adaptable, delivering meaningful benefits for both mentees and mentors alike.
We are looking forward to sharing more updates as the mentoring sessions commence over the next few weeks – watch this space for updates!
