Introducing the StEWARD framework: a perspective on the Coach Supervisor Mindset

Abstract

Building on previous research, this article identifies an acronym “StEWARD” as a framework for articulating and exploring a coach supervision mindset. The acronym stands for Stewardship, Exploring, Wisdom, Agility, Relationship and Doubt, the letter “t” is for tailor, which invites the practitioner to build on the framework capturing nuances in their own supervision approach. Each element is expanded upon in turn, describing the supervisor’s likely disposition, beliefs, feelings, and values. Consideration is then given to how this mindset will influence what the supervisor pays attention to and how they respond. Contracting is positioned as an opportunity for co-creation, each letter of the acronym invites specific consideration. Responding to feedback on Lucas (2017), particular attention is given to how these mindset principles differentiate between coaching and coach supervision practice. A discussion highlights how often a supervisor must hold the tension between potentially conflicting positions. Limitations of the concept are identified and recommendations for use for training providers, professional coaching bodies and practitioners are offered. The piece closes with two suggestions for further research.

Keywords

• coach supervision
• mindset
• conceptual model