3.3. Supervising from the Inside Out

By the end of the workshop participants will have:

• A clearer understanding of how their identity, values and assumptions influence their supervisory approach.

• Practical tools to align their intentions with their everyday supervisory behaviour.

• A drafted Statement of Supervision Approach (150–300 words) suitable for professional use.

• Greater awareness of how their behaviour functions as a model for PhD candidates.

• Concrete ideas for refining or strengthening their supervisory practice.

This half-day (3-hour) workshop blends short inputs, guided exercises, discussion and a focused writing session for the supervision statement. Key elements include:

• Short introduction: styles of supervision, academic context and the role of supervisors.

• Individual reflection and exercises to help participants clarify their own supervisory approach.

• Mapping of contextual influences such as departmental expectations, disciplinary norms and institutional policies.

• Drafting session: step-by-step guidance and templates to create a clear, concise Statement of Supervision Approach, with time for peer feedback.

• Action planning: identifying specific next steps to implement or refine aspects of their supervisory practice.

After attending this workshop participants will be able to:

• Describe the key elements of their own supervisory approach.

• Recognise how contextual factors shape supervision and identify opportunities to adjust or strengthen their practice.

• Produce a well-structured Statement of Supervision Approach (150–300 words) that clearly communicates their supervisory style and practices.

• Identify two concrete actions to integrate their intended approach more consistently into daily supervision.