SMALL GROUP LEADER TRAINING PLAN
From synodo.app/guides/train-small-group-leaders. Free to copy and change.

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STEP 1: THE FIRST CONVERSATION (before they say yes)
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[ ] What a leader is: a host and a guide, not a teacher or counselor
[ ] How long: one term to start, with a co-leader beside them
[ ] Time each week: about 30 minutes to prepare, plus the meeting
[ ] Who supports them: name the pastor or coach they can call

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STEP 2: THE TRAINING EVENING (about 2 hours)
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15 min  Welcome and food, the way their groups should start
20 min  What a leader is and is not
30 min  Leading a discussion: model it, then practice in threes
20 min  Caring for people: following up after two missed meetings
15 min  When to pass something on, and to whom
20 min  The practical bits: the study, the leader guide, attendance,
        who to ask for help

Bring: a short passage and 6 questions to practice with; a printed
copy of this plan; the name and number of who to call.

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STEP 3: CO-LEADING (first 4 to 6 meetings)
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Meeting 1-2  Watch, then lead the welcome
Meeting 3    Lead the discussion
Meeting 4    Lead prayer and send the follow-up messages
Meeting 5-6  Lead the whole evening with the experienced leader there

After each one, 10 minutes together: what went well, one thing to try.

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PASS IT ON THE SAME DAY
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Anything involving someone at risk of harm, abuse, or a child's
safety goes to a pastor straight away. Group confidentiality does
not cover these. Follow the church's safeguarding policy.

Pastor to call: ______________________  Phone: __________________

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STEP 4: ONGOING SUPPORT
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[ ] Monthly huddle, 30-45 minutes: wins, who needs care, one skill
[ ] A leader guide ready for every meeting
[ ] One-to-one check-in with a pastor each term
[ ] Name a co-leader in the first term

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GOOD DISCUSSION, IN FIVE LINES
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1. Ask, then wait. Count to seven before rephrasing.
2. Follow up with "What makes you say that?"
3. Draw in quieter people by name, with a question that has no wrong answer.
4. Redirect gently: "Let's pick that up afterward."
5. End on time.