Introduces a theme issue on mentoring beginning teachers, emphasizing the importance of providing a meaningful approach to mentoring new teachers, noting problems associated with not being mentored, describing some aspects of new teachers' experiences in entering the profession, and presenting elements of a well-conceived induction program. (SM)

Identifies constraints and opportunities provided by a British model of mentoring that involves inducting student teachers into a nationally prescribed but locally created community of practice. Considers how increased attention to student teachers' intentional and metacognitive learning may benefit mentors and schools and provide a counterweight…