I am about to embark on my second year as a mentor

To help me give the best support to the probationer teacher i am asking as many teachers as I can, who have just finished their first year to let me pick their brain!

What should I have ready for my probationer starting? What's the best piece of advice you would offer? What makes a great/a poor mentor? Would you have liked the chance to come into school in the June before you started to eg help with trips, take part in staff meetings where the new term was being discussed?

I appreciate any time you can give  to help me.

Thanks

Claire