The Department of English and Comparative Literary Studies is strongly committed to the professional development of all academic colleagues. Good quality teaching and research, and efficient and effective administration, depend on colleagues receiving the full support of the Department, allowing them to develop their strengths and manage their duties to the best of their ability. The Department provides a system of mentoring for all academic staff, which is designed to help new colleagues settle quickly into departmental life and support staff in their academic development and in progressing their career (including probation and promotion). The mentoring system is overseen by the Deputy Head (Academic Development) and the Academic Development and Mentoring Group.