MENTORING IN AGRICULTURE

This dissertation reports on a phenomenological study of mentoring in agriculture, with the aims of defining and investigating the mentor/protege relationship; seeking evidence of the incidence of mentoring among farm managers, and identifying the associated potential benefits and pitfalls for the stakeholders. The study focused on a sample of farm managers (N=352), in thirty-four English counties. The methodology was based on a literature search, a postal questionnaire and focused interviews, enabling quantitative and qualitative data to be captured. The literature review majored on the nature, definition and process of mentoring, mentoring relationships, potential benefits, pitfalls and ethical issues. It was established that mentoring did take place within the sector studied. Characteristics that defined the mentoring relationships were their dyadic, unstructured, active and stable nature. The substantial minority that had not experienced mentoring cited lack of opportunity or awareness as the main causes. The practice of mentoring was cross-generational, with no apparent association between age and having experienced mentoring. An association between age and formal qualifications was observed, with a significant increase in those in the lowest age group entering the profession with degree qualifications. It was confirmed that benefits accrued to both the mentors, and to the careers and psychosocial development of the proteges. The prevalence of employers and linemanagers as mentors was revealed by the study, as was the importance of discussion groups, and professional bodies, in meeting some mentoring needs. Recommendations arising from the analysis included areas for further research, and a strategy for the wider adoption of mentoring in the industry.Faculty of Social Science and Busines