Tutors for accompanying newly recruited teachers in schools: an experience from the University of Padua


Abstract:

This contribution explores the role and functions of the teacher-tutor in Italian schools, with particular attention to the tutoring actions dedicated to new recruits. Starting with a reflection about the initial and in-service teacher training, the paper then proceeds by exploring the peculiarities of tutoring actions dedicated to newly recruited teachers from a pedagogical point of view. A training experience proposed at the University of Padua is then presented. The characteristics, methodologies and outcomes of the first 2023-24 edition of the Course “Role and functions of the tutor in teacher training”, dedicated to schoolteachers of all levels, are described. The opinions shared by the participants highlight the positivity of the experience and the satisfaction with a course that, according to the respondents, has helped them to better understand and perform their tutoring role in schools, with positive influences also with respect to professionalisation and working with students.